Ski Boots - Ski Equipment

Ski Boots - Ski and Snowboarding Equipment

Rear-entry boots are now no longer manufactured, although many people do still swear by them. It may be possible to rent an old pair in certain shops in the many resorts. The more modern four buckled boots form a far better more personalised shape. This is because the shell of the boot is wrapped around the foot, this then gives far greater control over the ski when on the slopes.

Buying boots is a decision that for the frequent skier is a definate step forward - pun intended! and when you decide to invest in your own footware, rather than hiring them, the fitter will need to know how regularly, how and where you plan to ski. If you only ski for a short period of time - less than 30 days per season - your boots will be fitted less for performance and more for comfort.

The boots may take more than one season before they feel really broken in which can be a disapointment if you are expecting kid glove comfort to begin with. You will still have to take it easy at first to avoid any over bruising and blistering.

Stronger skiers will need a much closer fit as theirs will begin to pack out sooner. This will lead to an energy transfer inefficiency the result can be dangerous movement in the boot. Your boots should feel fairly snug when you buy them or higher them as the liners can pack down by as much as 20% after only a few weeks skiing.

All skiers will know how hard it is when you start wearing boots. The feeling of constriction and wanting to force the toes to the tip of the boot by kicking is hard to ignore but a better way to do this is to firstly secure the power strap and upper cuff buckles first.

The idea is that you should be be able to fasten both buckles fairly tightly with two of your fingers applying enough pressure. The next step is to hook the bottom buckles over your instep and toes. Unless you are stretched forward with your shin pressing against the boot tongue as far as you can go.

Your boot liner and foot should move back in the shell. This should secure your heel and give your foot more space. Once your knees are pushed forward, fasten the bottom buckles, so they are just snug. Once upright your boots should feel comfortable. Your toes should be just brushing the front of the liner with your heel flat and not lifted.