Looking for a new pair of ski boots this winter? A professional boot fitter will guide you through the process. Even with the best fit boot, some problems may need to be corrected by having your boots custom fit. Toe room can be expanded, cuff alignment adjusted, the position of the foot can be improved by inserting custom insoles to support your foot’s position and so on.
Think of your boot fitter like your doctor. Your fit will be an intuitive process. Remember, your boot fitter can guide you, but in the end remember that it is your foot and you are the only one who can pick a boot that is just right for you.
Wear a good pair of ski socks. If you have a good pair of ski socks bring them with you, if not, you may want to buy a pair. A light to mid-weight sock is recommended for the best fit. You will get most of your warmth from the boot itself. Never wear cotton.
Be open-minded. Remember that whatever boot may fit your friends, most likely will not fit you the same. This also includes recommendations from magazine reviews.
Take your time. Buying a ski boot is a time-consuming process. Plan on spending a minimum of an hour trying on boots. Try on a variety of different brands, models and sizes. Walk around in each boot.
Make it a process of elimination. Try on different models on your left and right feet. Keep the “winner” on and compare it to the next boot and so on.
If you wait until the end of the season the selection will be minimal. The best time to buy a boot is in the fall when the shops have greater inventory. Remember, the right fitting boot is an investment you will not regret on the slopes.
Too BIG is a BIG problem. Many people buy their boots too big. A good fitting boot feels tight out of the box and may remain very snug during the first few days of skiing. Relax. Your boots will compress to comfortable levels after a few days on the hill. In the right fitting boot, your toes should touch the front. When you flex into the front of the boot, your toes should move back slightly.
More on buying boots too big. Buying a boot that’s too big can be painful and cause injuries. In extreme cases, over-sized boots can even cause ankle sprains and bone breaks. Over-sized boots also hinder skiing and promote fatigue. You may find yourself in the “backseat,” clawing your toes and tightening your thigh muscles and hamstrings to maintain stability and control.
Shell fit is paramount. Do not worry about your street shoe size. To check a shell fit, remove the liner and put your foot in the shell. Slide your foot forward until your big toe touches the front. A finger to a finger-and-a-half of space between your heel and the shell will give you a good snug fit.
Make sure you visit a specialty ski shop. Don’t negotiate the minefield of boot selection with a novice. Boots are the most complex piece of sports gear you’ll probably ever purchase. Buying at a specialty ski shop is your best assurance that your boot tech will have the expertise to help you make the right choice.
Many thanks to Nicole Fisher, co-owner of the Alpine Hut in Seattle’s Magnolia area, for these boot-fitting suggestions. For more information, Nicole may be reached at
(206) 284-3575.
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