Freeride boots vs all mountain/regular boots

[NewEnglandSkier]

Are there any real or important differences between freeride/freeski and regular all mountain ski boots? I'm on the market for new boots this season and I'm wondering what the main differences between a freeride boot and a normal all mountain boot is.
Yes, I am working with a boot fitter, but I already called him today to ask about something else, so until I store up enough questions before I get in touch with him again, I thought I'd pose the question here.

I am not an aggressive skier or do any free skiing etc, but I've been told that since I have a very narrow foot and tons of dorsiflexion in my ankles, that I can go for stiffer boots than I might think for my ability level-- and with such a narrow foot, I need a narrow boot.

My boot fitter does not sell boots, so he just gave me an sense of what to look for-certain brands to target etc. I've just begun my search, but in doing preliminary research online to determine which boots are fairly narrow, I've noticed the Salomon Scarlet and on the surface it seems like it may have some of the characteristics I need (have not tried it yet). Is there any reason someone should not choose a freeski boot (if it fits) if they don't do that type of skiing?
Thanks

 

[Jilly]

From Ski Canada Magazine:
"The main theme of this family of ski boots is finding ways to reduce the punishment. Shockabsorbent materials and padding are common in the boot board, especially under the heel. Also look for extra padding in the tongue and back of the cuff area."

I also think we've been down this road before. If the boot fits, don't worry about the name or skiing style.

 

[BackCountryGirl]

Also, Free Ride boots tend to have more durable metal parts to prevent breakage.

 

[sdskiqueen]

I just got the Dalbello freeride boot - the Lotus. I didn't intentionally look for a freeride boot, but it turned out to be the best fit. I have a narrow foot and more importantly a high arch and have always been in Lange boots. It's a long story, but the short version is that I thought I would see if my old boots needed twinking and found out that they were about two sizes too big! Anyway, it turned out that of all the boots I tried - even a Lange in the correct size - didn't feel as good as the Dalbello Lotus. What makes the Lotus a freeride boot is the tongue is "soft flexing" and it has an "anti-shock footbed" for landing - the idea that freeriders love to take jumps and get big air.
Anyway, I'm in agreement with the idea that you should find a boot that fits and not worry about whether it's a freeride boot or a standard ski boot. Fit is what really matters!

 

[SusieK]

I purchased the Scralet's last week - season end sale, 50% off. Right foot felt great right out of the box, left foot...still being worked on. The two day's that I have skied on them, I really like them (aside from the left foot pain!). They really give me an excellent feel for what my ski is doing underfoot. I also had the heaters installed, but due warmer spring weather I probably won't use them until next year. They are tight to get into, I keep them under the heater in the front seat of the car so the shell is easier to open up. Although, I have never owned a pair of boots that were easy to get into! Thus far I am very happy with these boots and can't wait to get the left foot issues worked out so I can rip down the hill!