How to Break in Ski Boots

A new season and a new pair of boots may sound like the stuff a skier's dreams are made of. But new ski boots can also be the stuff of nightmares. New boots should be tight and stiff. This is not exactly a fun period of time for using the new boots but, by taking some preseason break-in advice, the boots become molded to your foot.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear the new boots around the house. It does not seem like much fun stomping around the living room like a mechanized monster, but wearing the boots pushes the heel cup into position and molds the liner to your foot.

    • 2

      Pull the liners out and wear them like a pair of slippers. This molds the liner foam to your toe and heel.

    • 3

      Put the liners back into the boots. Do not tighten the calf straps, but make the lower straps and buckles as tight as possible and wear the boots until circulation becomes compromised. Loosen and let the blood flow back into your foot. Repeat this and, over time, the boots will become comfortable and broken in.

    • 4

      Wear a single pair of socks and never tuck long underwear or ski pants into the boot during use or the break-in period. Ski boots are made to be tight and insulated without extra socks. A single pair of socks should be plenty.

    • 5

      Take the boots to a professional boot fitter if Steps 1-4 do not yield positive results. The boot fitter can punch out space in the toe, making the boot a better fit for your foot.