Buying ski boots ...

As skis have progressed and become shorter with more pronounced sidecuts, boots needed to change too!

Today, ski boots need to have a more progressive flex. Skis are easier to control. Boots must provide the same qualities, while maintaining high levels of performance.

here's some important things to remember...

The fit of your ski boots is one of the most important factors in your enjoyment and progression in skiing.
Don't be taken in by colour and marketing - what you should be looking for is feel - after all, the boot is what puts you in touch with the ski.

Ski boots are essentially made up of 3 parts:

the outer shell

This is the rigid plastic part of the boot, and its density will vary according to make and model. As well as getting the size right, it's also important to choose a boot that's right for your level of skiing.
An expert racer will need a harder shell than an intermediate recreational skier. An intermediate skier will need a shell with enough give to allow him or her to enjoy various types of snow and terrain.

When choosing your boots, be honest with yourself about your ability - the right boot can allow you to improve your skiing, a boot that is too advanced for you will only hold you back.

the inner liner

The inner boot should be snug and hug the foot and calf. There should be no movement inside the boot.
When you first wear your boots they should feel tight around the toe area, but after a little time the inner will pack out, leaving you with a comfortable but snug fit.

the inner sole or "footbed"

If you're going to the time and effort involved in buying your own ski boots, getting custom made footbeds is an essential next step.

Footbeds, ('conformables' for example), are insoles that are moulded to the shape of your feet, thus giving you support for all those funny foot foibles you didn't know you had. Good custom made footbeds will lead to improved circulation and reduce cramping - allowing you to concentrate on what your foot is doing in the boot rather than how it's feeling.

Simond Sports can give you lots of help and advice when buying ski boots and have a specialist boot fitting service - come and talk to us !