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Fitting of ski boots

TO TRY ON ALPINE SKI BOOTS

FOLLOW THE STEPS

 

1. Socks - Put on the socks you are going to wear if possible.

Place your socks correctly, taking care not to trap your trousers in the boot (there should be no folds between your skin and the ski boot, just your sock). 


2. Loosen the shoe completely, including the strap, and ensure that all buckles are unhooked. You may be able to rotate the buckles slightly to prevent them from catching on each other. Be sure to loosen the laces along the bottom of the shoe. Check that the inside of the shoe is empty. Most shoes have a buckle on the tongue to help you put it on. Keep the shoe flat on the ground and tilt it when you stand up. Take the tongue, point your toe directly into the shoe, pull the tongue up and out as you put the shoe on. Ensure that the tab is positioned on the shin and that it is inserted into the sides of the shell. Start by closing the two upper buckles slightly to position the tongue on the foot. After attaching the Velcro strap, flex forward with the lower buckles still open. This will push your foot back towards the back of the shoe and push your heel into the heel box. Now tighten all the buckles firmly, but don't tighten them so much that you feel pain. Keep in mind that your shoes will adjust to your foot. Spend time standing with your feet parallel in a skiing position while simulating skiing movements. Also remember that the temperature in your living room is about 21°C and the shell will be stiffer on the slopes. 

TIPS:

- All ski boots will be wider after a few days of skiing due to the liner settling in use.

- Many boots have a removable spoiler attached to the shell between the lining and the back of the boot - if the boot hits you in the calf, you can try removing this piece, which is normally attached with Velcro or a screw.

- Make sure your boots stay warm on the way up the mountain by keeping them in the car or using a conventional or heated boot bag. Cold shoes are stiffer and harder to put on and if you start out with stiff shoes, they will not have had time to adapt to your feet and soften sufficiently.

- If the size is too small, try to bend - (drive your knee forward a few times). This will push your heel into the heel pocket of the shoe and create more space in the front - you should no longer feel pressure on your toes.

(NOTE: Some manufacturers do not make half-size shells, so a 26.0 or 26.5 shoe uses exactly the same shell, it is usually the size of the shoe that changes)

IT'S UP TO YOU

Now that you know everything about alpine boots, you have the tools to start your search. We strongly recommend that you do not choose based on price or colour alone. Your ski boot is the most important part of your equipment. It is wiser to save your money elsewhere to enjoy skiing without risk.