Have you checked
your boots lately? Do they pinch? Do your toes tingle? Does
your foot slip around, making it hard to control your skis?
Lots of people think
that ski boots are destined to be uncomfortable, so they suffer
through it. It's just not true. Boots that fit well should feel
good.
It's tough to buy online,
but if you know what to look for it can be done successfully.
We've provided some valuable information below on what you need
to know before you buy a ski boot. Fit is important, so get
good insoles and wear your new boots around the house a bit
before you go out on the hill. Yeah, you might look a little
silly.
1.It's always a good
idea to try boots on whenever possible before you buy them.
The salesperson should look at your feet to determine the shape
boot your foot should go into. Each brand has its own unique
last, not every brand fits every foot, nor is it intended to.
2. Have your foot measured
and sized for a shell.
3. Remember to pull
out the standard footbed and insert your custom footbed before
trying on the boots. Custom footbeds are highly recommended
for a proper fit. New boots should fit snugly around the entire
foot. Very snug. Remember, you'll gain 1/8 to 1/4 of a size
as the boot packs in over time.
4. The boot should
reflect your ability with some room for improvement.
5. You should be able
to flex the boot. If you can't flex the boot at room temperature,
this doesn't bode well for flexing a boot stiffened by the cold
of a normal ski day!
How should a ski boot
fit? Your boot should feel comfortable and snug.
When you flex your knees forward, your heel should stay in the heel pocket.
Your toes need wiggle room!! It's all right to feel the front of the
boot, as long as your toes pull away a bit from the shell when the boot
is buckled and your knees are flexed. The liners will compress and stretch
over time; some minor pressure will disappear by itself. The area from
the instep through the top of the ankle should be snug but not cramped
or painful. The foot should be held firmly without setting the buckles
too tight. The fit should be from the boot itself, not the buckle system.
Even with the best
fit boot, some problems need to be corrected by having your
boots custom fit. Toe room can be expanded, boot tongues adjusted,
and your position in the boot improved by inserting custom insoles
to support your foot in a neutral position.
Sourse: Skiesssentials.com
Now, hit the
slopes and have a safe and great season!
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