Funny you should ask that because I was just thinking about this a few weeks ago as I contemplated boot switching. Yes, the Endorphin has a shorter shell length per size than other boots, but it seems comparable to most true alpine sole lengths I’ve seen. For example, my Head World Cup Ti alpine boots, Garmont Endorphin and Scarpa Skookum boots all sit between 302-306mm sole lengths for comparable sizes (26.5-27.0).

But, there are some boots that for some reason have longer sole lengths for comparable sizes. I guess Dalbello is one of those. And, I’d add the Garmont Radium and Argon touring boots to that mix. I believe that the sole length for a 27.0 Garmont Radium is in the 312mm length arena. My guess is that the 28.0 shell size would be over 320mm, but I’d have to check on that.

The Radium/Argon boots are awesome from what I’ve heard. One of our testers has been absolutely stoked on his (look for a review shortly).

Garmont Radium
http://www.feedthehabit.com/gear/bcstore/bc/shop.php/P-37319/Garmont_Radium_Alpine_Touring_Boot_-_Mens.html

Garmont Argon
http://www.feedthehabit.com/gear/bcstore/bc/shop.php/P-68075/Garmont_Argon_Alpine_Touring_Ski_Boot_-_Mens.html

Looking at the lasts, the Radium/Argon seems to position the foot lower and closer to the boot sole, thus requiring the length to be increased.

Hope that helps!

I like my current mount and ski setup: Are there any suggestions for boots similiar to the Endorphins that are known to have a longer sole length without an overly enlarged shell size or compromised mobility?

You need to try them on for yourself and see how they fit your feet. The Garmont’s true anatomical fit–which suits low to mid-volume feet–should provide a more high-performance and better feeling boot overall. I’d go with the Endorphin’s or the Adrenalin’s at this point.