Ski Boots Buying Guide
Finding the right ski boots is one of the most important steps in getting ready to ski. A perfect fit will ensure proper safety and flexibility. With the bindings, they connect your foot to the ski and are the source of your control over your skiis. your performance and technique greatly depend on what boots you choose. Look for ones that provide enough ankle support, yet are still comfortable. They should keep your feet warm and dry, while also protect you against any impact that could lead to serious injuries. A proper fit is essential when it comes to adjusting speed, attempting tough manoeuvres or rough terrain. Take a look through this guide to ensure you pick out the right ones.
Basic Components
Outer Shell
- Outer Shells are usually hard and plastic and give the boot its support.
- They will help your ankles from bending too far as well keep your ankles and shins from serious damage,
- Its stabilizes your foot in position and won't flex or change, so ensuring a proper fit is essential.
- The adjustments for the boot are located on the outer shell. Some will have more adjustments than others.
- Strap- This is located at the top of the boot and will help ensure a tighter fit to your shins.
- Flex Adjustment- This is located on the back or side and allows you to adjust your ankle flexibility.
- Buckle Adjustment- There are usually at least four. They allow you to make sure the boot is tight enough around your ankle and shins.
Inner Boot
- This is the padding that will keep your foot warm and protected from impact injuries.
- Their are different liners for different types of fee t and you should make sure that its a snug fit.
- The more you use your boot, the inner lining will slowly become adjusted to your foot.
Entry Point
- The entry point is how you actually put the boot on. Different types of entry points provide different levels of stability. Here are the two major kinds:
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Rear-Entry 
Rear entry boots allow you to enter your foot through the back of the boot. They usually have only two buckles for adjusting the boot. They aren't recommended for anyone who really wants to get into skiing, although they will suffice for a beginner who wants to learn the basics before upgrading to better equipment. |
Front-Entry
Front entry boots have a flexible front side that allows you to enter your foot from the top of the boot. They offer superior control and stability with a solid outer shell and a well padded inner lining.These are the most common boots on the market, but are harder to get on and off than rear-entry boots and are the most expensive boots. |
Proper Fit
Tips for Trying On Boots
- Bring your ski socks with you. Ski socks are usually thicker than normal socks, so you shouldn't buy a pair of boots without testing them with your ski socks.
- Like with sneakers, toes should be near the front but shouldn't be touching.
- If its too hard for your toes to flex, than you won't have enough control over your skis.
- If its too easy for your toes to flex, than you won't have enough support in your boot.
- It should be a tight fit, but no so tight that you're cutting off circulation to your feet.
- Keep in mind that boot sizes don't correspond to shoe sizes. They are based on the width and length of your foot in centimetres, so be sure to get measured.
- Feet tend to swell during the day, so try on boots in the afternoon versus the morning.
- Boots can accommodate to people with high arches or are flat footed, so don't hesitate to look for boots that specifically fit your needs.
- Give yourself enough time. Purchasing the right ski boots shouldn't be rushed and can end up taking up quite a bit of time.
- There are different boots for men ,women and children so buy accordingly.
Skill Level
- Beginners, recreational or occasional skiers:
- You'll want a looser fit than professionals.
- The comfort level will allow for you to practice skiing with ease, but give you less control over the skis.
- These are not good for fast performance or trickier terrain.
- Advanced skiers:
- You'll want to look into getting performance boots that have a tight fit.
- These usually have more adjustments, so that you can properly adjust your boot to the type of skiing you'll be doing. (downhill, moguls, etc...)
- You should buy according to the type of ski you own as well. Slightly shaped skis will need a different boot than downhill skis.
Top Brands
Related Guides
International Resources
For this resource in your home country, please see:
NL: Skischoenen Shopgids
