What to consider when buying ski boots

Why should I go to a professional ski boots fitter?

We would say getting the right boots for your feet is important, something comfortable but provides you with the correct level of support and performance for your ability, there are many factors to consider. How experienced you are, whether you prefer park, powder or piste, your weight and your goals. A professional boot fitter will assess your foot shape and discuss your requirements to find boots with the right fit, flex and performance to suit your riding style and skills.

Should I get my liners heat moulded?

It is especially useful for skiers. The benefit of having mouldable liners is that they can be heated and then shaped to your feet by a boot fitter to give a custom fit. Moulding also helps to speed up the breaking-in process.

Do I need specialist footbeds/insoles? 

Some boots come with customisable footbeds or insoles, or they can be added to your boots. While this can increase the cost, they’re designed to provide extra support, reduce fatigue, increase impact absorption and improve posture, making turning easier, so are worth the extra outlay. They’re particularly important for those who suffer from specific problems such as flat feet. 

Is it worth getting fully customised ski boots? 

Yes, because they’ll be much more comfortable. Expert fitters can customise or alter boots so they fit perfectly with no pressure points, by pushing out, grinding or cutting the shells, stretching the liners or adding foam inserts to cushion loose-fitting areas. The latest game-changing technology is fully thermo-mouldable shells, which can often be customised more quickly than traditional boots.

What are hike and ride boots?

Traditional ski boots have a fixed cuff with a limited range of motion in the ankle, whereas hike and ride boots have a hike mode that allows greater articulation in this area when walking. Used in conjunction with touring bindings this makes trekking uphill easier. And when locked into ski mode, hike and ride boots still provide impressive downhill performance.

What’s the difference between intermediate and expert ski boots? 

Expert boots have thinner, firmer liners than intermediate models for a more precise fit and better edge control. Although comfort is sacrificed a little, this can be improved. Most liners nowadays can be heated and shaped to your feet, and some can be injected with foam for a more customised fit.

To book a ski boot appointment click here