The Best Fitting Ski Boots

Whether you're a complete novice or a black-diamond skiing expert, skiing can be one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have. But, imagine if the whole experience is marred by painful feet. By wearing ski boots that fit properly and comfortably, your skiing performance will drastically improve and so will your enjoyment of the sport.

  1. Ask the Professionals

    • Visit a specialty shop where you will find a large selection of ski boots that suit your size, skiing level and price range. Trained individuals will guide you through the fitting process and the more information you can provide about yourself, including how many times you have skied before, what level skier you are, what kind of slope you expect to ski most, and what discomfort you have experienced previously, the better the boot expert will be able to provide a boot that is tailored for your needs. You don't need to part with your cash there and then but it's helpful to get advice from a professional so that when you shop around you know what to look for.

    Wear you Ski Socks

    • Remember that when you are out skiing you are likely to be wearing ski socks. Take this into consideration when you are shopping for boots, and always wear a pair of ski socks when you try on boots. Normally your ski boots will be about half a size larger than your normal shoe size.

    Shell Size

    • Slide your foot into the hard, outer shell of the boot without the soft, inner lining. Make sure that your big toe is lightly touching the front of the shell and then see how close your heel is to the back. You should allow for one to one-and-a-half fingers space between your heel and the back of the shell. If there is less room, the boot will be too small and if there is more room then the boot will be too big. With your foot placed centrally width-ways there should be room for about one finger either side.

    Test your Flex

    • Bend your knees so that they protrude just over your toes. A suitable ski boot will allow this flexing action without discomfort. Some skiers prefer more flexibility in their boots than others; just see what feels comfortable to you if you don't have previous skiing experience. Bear in mind that when you are out on a cold ski slope the plastic is liable to stiffen and so the amount of flex you have in your own home or in a shop will be much more here than when you are out in the mountains.

    Support Weary Feet

    • Walk around in your boots for as long a time as you can so that you can get used to the feel and establish whether there is likely to be discomfort during a prolonged trip. If you are having difficulties in boots that you have already purchased, it is worth returning to the shop to consider an alternative as discomfort now could become agony after a few days of skiing. You should be able to feel support at the ankles, heels and across the top of your foot, but there shouldn't be any pressure on your feet. You may want to add an orthodic insole which will allow as little space underfoot as possible. This will not only increase your enjoyment of skiing as it will provide comfort but could also improve your performance. The cuff alignment should allow your skis to run flat along the bottom of the boots.

    Quality Costs

    • Select a recommended range and a pair of boots that you are sure is comfortable for you, rather than the cheapest option on the shelf. While top-of-the-range brands are not necessary, particularly for beginners, wearing boots with a quality than ensures comfort is definitely a good idea as your skiing experience can be shattered by painful footwear.