Bill,
According to my favorite boot-fitter the significant advantage to the softies is comfort --comfort you can't touch without going into totally custom boots (He sells an ugly black custom model that starts at $850; he had the women's Dolomites on sale in January for about $400).
He also told me that he doesn't think they're well- suited to really aggressive skiers. I wonder what Andi has to say about that...
Cerinda
