Ski Boot Fitting Tips

Trying Them On

• Even if you don't ski that often and don't want to make a large investment in ski gear, getting boots is important. It's always easier and better to rent skis and then adjust the bindings rather than renting boots that hundreds of other people have worn before. When it comes to ski boots, you need to try them on. Ordering online, unless you already have the same exact pair isn't advised, particularly for those new to buying ski boots.

  Remember to bring appropriately thick socks when trying on a pair of boots. Don't bring regular tube socks or even ankle socks, as they aren't going to help you get the right size and fit. When you're on the slopes, you're going to be cold, and will need thicker socks. The best time to try on ski boots is in the afternoon, as by that time your feet have been in use and they'll be as large as they're going to be in a day.

Fit and Feel

• The type of boot will depend on the type of skiing your are doing, but also the shape of your foot. A high arch of your foot means you are going to want a boot that provides support for it. Remember that the padding or liner is going to shift and mold to your foot, ankle and leg.

  Getting a boot that immediately feels comfortable won't necessarily feel the same down the line, once it's been broken in completely, and this can take some time.

  Big is not always better. Ski boots are meant to be tight and support your ankle. If they're big and loose like Ugg boots, then they're not right for you. A well-fitting boot can always be made to be more comfortable by reforming the liner to fit your leg better, but trying to provide support in a boot that is too big isn't going to happen.

  Boots will get bigger as your weight moves about in them. So go tight, and ski or wear them to get them to fit perfectly.

Stiffness Isn't Always Good

• Ski boots are going to feel stiff to just about anyone who has never worn a pair of them before. That same stiffness gives all skiers that wonderful heel-to-toe walk, but don't be put off by it. Ski boots actually have varying degrees of stiffness. But the normal skier, even those who are more advanced, don't need the stiffest boot. The stiffest boots are for racers only.

  When trying on boots and testing out the degree of flexibility/stiffness, remember that because you are in a nice warm store, the movement rates of boots are going to be different than those in the cold. To test the boots, stand on both feet at once, just like you would while skiing, and imitate the very same movements you make while skiing. Remember, throughout a day of skiing, you may need to tighten your boots as they mold, stiff or un-stiffen around your feet.