Boot Fitting: Tips for Comfort and Performance
Regardless of whether you're a first time skier or well seasoned expert, seeking out a good boot fit can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But, with a little perseverance and a good boot fitter you can achieve both comfort and performance from your boots. This article will cover what to look for in a good boot fit, describe what a good match feels like, and explain why this will improve your skiing whether you're renting or upgrading your existing equipment.
Ski boots are designed to fit more snuggly then your street shoes. You want your heel and foot held firmly in place and the boot cuff snug around your calf without gaps. The pressure on your foot should be comfortably snug, like a firm handshake. Wearing a ski specific sock and keeping all clothing outside the boot, will help keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Often layering socks, wearing thick socks, or tucking your clothing into the boots (including thermal underwear) will create pressure points and decrease circulation to your feet. You may need to cut your thermal underwear or wear ones that have an elastic ankle in order to comfortably pull them above the boot cuff. Check that all layers of your ski pants are over the outside of the boot as well.
Sometimes people make the mistake of getting a boot that's too big because their toes touched the front of the boot when they tried it on, and they asked for a bigger size. Don't forget to flex forward and push your shin against the boot tongue when you try on boots. This motion slides the foot backward into the correct position giving your toes more room.
If you rent boots you may have to try on more then one pair to find a good fit. Don't leave the boot fitting area if your feet are uncomfortable. You can't learn to ski or improve your skiing with an uncomfortable or poorly performing boot fit. Rental boots come in a variety of styles: rear entry, 3 or 4 buckle, and some even have battery powered heaters or an option that allows the boot cuff to move more freely while walking. If you own special foot beds or custom orthodics, use these in place of the stock foot bed in your rental boot.
The real test to a good boot fit will come on the hill. If you notice any discomfort such as numbness or tingling, toes banging the front of the boot, heel lifting, or feet sliding around, you may need to re-buckle your boots. If the problem persists have an experienced boot fitter check your feet for common foot anomalies. They may recommend a different boot or make a few quick modifications using off-the-shelf fitting aids. You may find that certain rental shops only carry one model or don't offer boots sized specifically for women. Call ahead if you want to ensure you'll have options.
If you own your boots and want a more customized fit consider scheduling an appointment with an experienced boot fitter. There are endless ways to customize ski boots for your feet. Whether you spend a couple of days a year, or an entire season in your boots you'll benefit from the improvements. Here's a partial list of the services an experienced boot fitter can offer: customized foot beds & foam liners, grinding or heat molding, boot heaters, and off-the-shelf fitting aids. In addition, they can observe your stance and lower leg alignment to determine if the boots or foot beds need adjustment.
Modern equipment is designed to complement ski instruction by making learning to ski and improving easier and with less effort then in the past. A professional ski instructor can help identify whether your technique or boot fit/alignment problems are hindering your improvement. Common problems such as: having difficulty changing direction, frequently catching an edge, feeling stuck on your inside edges, or struggling with the transition to parallel, can be addressed in a lesson. Follow-up with an experienced boot fitter to see if they can identify any stance issues that may be affecting your progress.
A ski boot that is comfortable but fits snuggly will help you control where, when, and how quickly you turn the ski. It will also give you a better sensation of rolling the skis on edge. Remember, whether you rent or plan to buy take your time trying different models and make sure you have the correct size. Eventually owning your own customized ski boots is a great investment you won't regret!
Article by Heidi Ettlinger ©2004 All rights reserved
