High-performance race ski boots for lighter racers, ambitious juniors and technically advanced skiers who want the precision and direct power transfer of Nordica’s Dobermann race line without the extreme stiffness of the harder versions. The NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium combines a 120 flex, a narrow 96 mm shell, a rigid PU construction and the lace-up Dob.5 Race laced liner. The result is a highly precise and sporty ski boot with fast response, excellent control and a flex that is easier to use effectively for lighter or less powerful skiers.
Dobermann has long been one of Nordica’s most established race lines, and the fifth generation has been extensively redesigned to provide a more anatomically precise fit, more efficient energy transfer and better-balanced shell performance. The new construction works together with Bi-Injected Spine technology to provide strong support through the rear of the boot while still allowing a smooth forward movement. This helps the skier actively manage pressure and react more effectively to changes in terrain.
The Medium version is particularly interesting because it retains the narrow 96 mm race fit and highly performance-oriented character, while the exact 120 flex provides a more accessible forward movement than the stiffer Dobermann 5 96 Stiff. This makes it a strong option for lighter racers, developing junior athletes and very advanced skiers who want high precision without unnecessarily demanding stiffness.
Who are these ski boots for?
The NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium is primarily intended for lighter racers, ambitious juniors and highly advanced sport skiers who want a precise and narrow race fit but do not need a 140 or 150 flex.
A 120 flex still represents a very sporty and firm configuration, but compared with stiffer race-oriented versions it allows easier forward movement and may be better suited to skiers with lower body weight or less absolute strength.
This model is suitable for skiers who:
How do the ski boots perform on snow?
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium has a precise, firm and highly direct character, but compared with the stiffer versions it feels less extreme and is easier to work with under normal high-performance loads.
The 120 flex provides enough support for aggressive carving and higher speeds, while still allowing easier forward movement. This can be especially important for lighter skiers or juniors who may not be able to load a 140-flex shell effectively.
The narrow 96 mm shell holds the foot securely and limits unwanted movement inside the boot. As a result, movements from the foot are transferred quickly into the shell and then to the skis.
Bi-Injected Spine reinforces the rear of the construction and helps maintain stability under higher loads, while still supporting a smooth and controllable forward flex.
On snow, you can expect:
How to read the parameters
Flex index 120
The exact flex index of this model is 120.
Flex gives an approximate indication of the resistance a ski boot provides when the skier drives the shin forward against the cuff. A higher value generally means greater stiffness, stronger support and higher demands on the skier’s technique and strength.
A flex of 120 represents a sport-to-race level of stiffness that is suitable for technically advanced skiers while remaining significantly more accessible than flex 140 or 150.
In practice, flex 120 provides:
It is important to remember that a higher flex is not automatically better. If a skier cannot properly load a stiff shell, excessive resistance can limit movement and make pressure control more difficult. Flex values are also not fully standardized between manufacturers, and the actual feel is influenced by boot construction, size, temperature and the skier’s physical characteristics.
96 mm shell width
The listed shell width is 96 mm.
This is a narrow sport-to-race fit that holds the foot much more securely than typical performance or all-mountain ski boots.
A 96 mm width supports:
Compared with the extremely narrow 93 mm Dobermann 5 RD models, the 96 mm version provides slightly more room and may be better suited to skiers who want race character without an extremely tight pure race fit.
It is still a narrow ski boot, so correct size selection and possible individual bootfitting are especially important.
Technologies
Adjustable Liner Tongue
The Adjustable Liner Tongue technology allows the position of the liner tongue to be adjusted and the instep area to be better matched to the individual shape of the foot.
In a narrow performance boot, correct tongue positioning can have a noticeable effect on comfort, pressure distribution and overall fit precision.
Benefits:
Bi-Injected Spine
Bi-Injected Spine is one of the key structural technologies of the Dobermann 5 platform.
The rear section of the boot provides strong support under load and helps stabilize the skier, while still allowing a smoother forward movement.
The result is not simply stiffness, but a controlled and usable flex that a technically advanced skier can actively work with through the turn.
Benefits:
Dual Setting Quick Spoiler
The Dual Setting Quick Spoiler technology allows adjustment of the rear spoiler and helps fine-tune contact around the calf and upper cuff.
This expands the possibilities for individual boot setup and more precise stance adjustment.
Benefits:
Dynamic Strap
The Dynamic Strap technology works with the upper cuff to support a stable connection between the shin and ski boot.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium uses a Dynamic Booster Med, which helps create controlled and progressive contact during forward movement.
Benefits:
Heel Link
The Heel Link technology focuses on precise heel retention inside the ski boot.
A securely positioned heel reduces unwanted foot movement and allows skier input to be transferred more quickly from the foot into the shell.
Benefits:
Soles
The Soles technology relates to the construction of the ski boot sole.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium uses a fixed, non-replaceable Alpine DIN sole. This is not a GripWalk version. The construction is focused on precise sport and race use with a compatible alpine binding.
The manufacturer’s technical description lists Alpine DIN 5360 for this model. The sole is not replaceable, which should be taken into account during long-term use and servicing.
Speed Lace
The Speed Lace technology relates to the lacing system of the race-oriented liner.
Lacing allows the liner to be tightened directly around the foot before the outer shell is closed. This helps create a more precise and even wrap around the foot.
Benefits:
Wedge Options For Customization
The Wedge Options For Customization technology expands the possibilities for individual boot setup using wedges.
In sport and race footwear, even small changes in foot position can influence stance and the way pressure is transferred to the skis.
Benefits:
Shell construction
The NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium uses a PU shell and PU cuff, which together create a firm and highly precise platform for sport and race skiing.
The exact flex index is 120 and the shell width is 96 mm. This combination provides strong support and precision while allowing easier forward movement than the stiffer 96 Stiff version.
The closure system is listed by the manufacturer as 2 Micro ALU Scr. + 2 Micro ALU Scr., meaning a total of four micro-adjustable aluminum buckles.
Shell geometry includes a Ramp Angle of 3.7° and a Forward Lean of 12.5°.
The manufacturer lists a weight of 2310 g per boot. The model designation is Dobermann 5, available sizes are 22.5–29.5, and the color is Black. Product code: 050A2201-100. Additional product code: N25000646.
Dob.5 Race laced liner
Inside the boot is the lace-up race-oriented Dob.5 Race laced liner.
Its construction is focused on securely wrapping the foot, providing precise retention and reducing unnecessary movement inside the shell.
Thanks to the lacing system, the liner can be tightened around the foot before the outer shell buckles are closed. Together with Heel Link technology, it helps keep the heel securely positioned and supports direct transfer of skier input.
The liner supports:
Four micro-adjustable aluminum buckles
The closure system consists of 2 Micro ALU Scr. + 2 Micro ALU Scr., giving a total of four micro-adjustable aluminum buckles.
Micro-adjustment makes it possible to fine-tune closure pressure in different areas of the boot and create a secure yet precisely adjustable connection between the foot and shell.
With a narrow 96 mm fit, this level of adjustment is particularly useful for combining precision and stability with a reasonable level of comfort.
Dynamic Booster Med
The upper cuff is complemented by a Dynamic Booster Med.
This component supports stable contact between the shin and cuff and helps create smoother power transfer during forward movement.
Combined with the 120 flex, it provides a highly sporty yet still usable shell response. Compared with stiffer versions, it is less physically demanding, which matches the model’s focus on lighter racers and juniors.
Alpine DIN sole
The NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium uses a non-replaceable Alpine DIN sole.
This is not a GripWalk configuration. The priority is a precise connection between the boot and a compatible alpine binding together with sport-to-race performance, rather than increased walking comfort.
The manufacturer’s technical description lists Alpine DIN 5360. Binding compatibility with this sole type should therefore be taken into account when choosing a binding.
Reduced-length shell and liner construction
During development of the fifth-generation Dobermann, Nordica optimized both the shell and liner construction to reduce their overall length.
The more compact construction supports faster and more precise transfer of movement between foot, boot and ski. Reduced unnecessary space and optimized dimensions fit the overall philosophy of the model, which focuses on high precision and quick response.
The result is a compact sport-to-race platform that combines stability, direct control and smoother flex characteristics.
Comparison with the NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Stiff
The main difference between the 96 Medium and 96 Stiff versions is stiffness.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium has an exact flex of 120, while the Dobermann 5 96 Stiff uses a flex of 140. Both models share the same 96 mm width, PU shell and cuff, Dob.5 Race laced liner and Dynamic Booster Med.
The Medium is better suited to lighter racers, juniors or performance skiers who want a highly precise race fit but do not need the extreme support of a 140 flex.
The Stiff, by contrast, is designed for stronger and more aggressive skiers who can genuinely make use of the higher stiffness.
If a skier wants the same precision and 96 mm race character but prefers a more accessible shell that is easier to load, the Dobermann 5 96 Medium is the more logical choice.
Comparison with the NORDICA Dobermann 5 RD 93 Stiff
Compared with the Dobermann 5 RD 93 Stiff, the difference is even more pronounced.
The Dobermann 5 RD 93 Stiff has a 140 flex and an extremely narrow 93 mm width. It is focused on pure race use and maximum precision.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium has a 120 flex and 96 mm width, giving the skier more space and significantly easier shell engagement.
For lighter racers or juniors, the Medium can be the more functional option because it allows them to use the flex more effectively while still providing a highly precise performance fit.
Comparison with conventional performance ski boots
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium sits between pure RD race models and conventional high-performance ski boots.
Compared with typical sport or all-mountain models, it offers:
Conventional performance ski boots usually provide more interior volume, a softer and more comfortable liner and a lower flex that is easier to use during recreational or all-day skiing.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium, by contrast, is intended for skiers who want more precision, support and performance without the extreme stiffness of pure race models.
Why choose the NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium?
The NORDICA Dobermann 5 96 Medium is a very strong choice for skiers who want genuine race character but need a more accessible flex than the stiffer race versions. The combination of 120 flex, 96 mm width and rigid PU construction provides high precision, stability and fast energy transfer while allowing lighter and less powerful skiers to work with the shell more effectively.
Bi-Injected Spine supports stability and smooth forward movement, while the lace-up Dob.5 Race laced liner, Heel Link and Speed Lace help secure the foot and heel precisely. Adjustable Liner Tongue, Dual Setting Quick Spoiler and additional customization options make it possible to fine-tune the fit to the needs of the individual skier.
The Dobermann 5 96 Medium therefore represents a very successful combination of race precision and more usable stiffness. For lighter racers, ambitious juniors or highly advanced sport skiers, it can provide exactly the right balance: a precise race fit and direct response without the unnecessarily demanding stiffness of a 140 or 150 flex.
| For whom: | Men's/Unisex |
| Type of ski boots: | Race |
| Type of skier: | Racer, Sports |
| Ski boot flex index: | 90-120, 120-More |
| Boot Width: | 96 |
Especially stiff, Nordica’s Bi-Injected Spine uses two different stiffnesses of plastic to deliver unparalleled support and a smooth forward flex that absorbs the terrain.
Personalized fit
More comfort
Especially stiff, Nordica’s Bi-Injected Spine uses two different stiffnesses of plastic to deliver unparalleled support and a smooth forward flex that absorbs the terrain.
The specially-designed spine makes recoveries easier
Bi-injected design offers support while also providing a smooth forward flex
Customizable flex allows you to control the transmission of energy to maximize response
To allow you to further customize the Dobermann’s fit and performance, the liner includes a spoiler with an interlocking, two-piece design. Use both spoiler components for maximum forward lean or remove the auxiliary insert to reduce it.
Greater precision and control
Armed with an eye for detail–and a desire to capitalize on every opportunity to enhance performance–we created an entirely new power strap for the latest Dobermann collection. Each Dynamic Power Strap contains a specific number of elastic bands that are woven together and tailored to the unique flex and design of each boot in the Dobermann collection. These improved straps maximize rebound while boosting control and response
2 set up: 3 and 2 elastic bands
With Nordica’s Heel Link system, tightening the laces of the liner pulls the heel into the heel pocket, securely anchoring it in place for an exceptional fit that delivers unparalleled control and response.
Heel Link system cradles the contours of the foot by drawing it into the heel pocket when boot is laced
Enhanced connectivity maximizes the transmission of energy to boost control and response
Pairing convenience with exceptional performance, we developed an entirely new sole for the Dobermann collection. Thanks to this new design, it’s no longer necessary to mill the boot’s soles. With a height tailored to the ISO 5355 standard, the Dobermann soles are ready to click into your bindings straight out of the box. And to promote an intuitive, uniform approach to sizing, we’ve abandoned the traditional UK sizing system in favor of the Mondopoint standard.
Soles 5mm shorter (all sizes)
Solid soles - ISO 5355 standard
New lifters 3mm - 4mm - 5mm
Speed Lace with our Heel Link liner perfectly locks the heel down while still allowing you to take your boots on and off without removing the liner from the shell.
Customize your boot’s fit and performance with a lower volume boot wedge for easy ramp angle adjustment.
The low volume boot wedge option enables you to customize the boot’s fit and tailor its performance.
Personalized fit and performance.