HOW TO FIND THE CORRECT SKI BOOT

Ski boots are not a new product and have come a long way over the years but there are still new developments hitting the market each season. The modern ski boot is a high tech product and what makes the difference when deciding between models and what is important for your personal skiing style is explained within the following chapters.

Size:
What goes for a normal shoe is especially important for ski boots. A common mistake made is purchasing a boot that is too large. Which size is then correct? The test is simple. When in the boot close all buckles properly and then bend your knees slightly forward while standing. In this position you should be able to move your toes. The faster you ski the less space you will need at the front and at the sides of the boot. If you are an expert skier then you can be feeling light contact at the front with your toes when standing up straight in the boots. As a general rule take your normal shoe size and go up one additional size. With childrens boots (up to 14 years) atleast a finger tip of space at the toes is needed to guarantee 2 seasons of skiing.

Width:
No two feet are the same. Not only does big or small play a role but also the width of the feet, the arch or other problems such as bowed legs. The boots chasis must match the foot otherwise no guarantee for a pain free skiing experience can be given. Each boot company offer boots for thin, normal and wide feet. All boot models on offer in our shop are categorized with thin, normal, wide and extra wide.

Stiffness or Flex:
Just like different models for different feet there are also diverse models for a range of skiing styles. Generally it can be said that the faster the skier the stiffer the boots flex should be. Each boot manufacturer has their own flex index. The higher the number the higher the flex. A more advanced ski requires a harder boot and vice versa. The entire system of ski-binding-boot should be compatible. To prevent painful experiences stay away from boot that are too stiff for your skiing ability. A performance orientated skier normally takes a harder flex to achieve a more direct feeling, however the models with a very high flex do not have a wide fit. That is why we recommend that skiers with wider feet should sacrifice a little flex for a wider boot.

Comfort:
Some models make it possible to adjust the flex of the boots shaft. Some boot offer a reformable inner boot to achieve through a warming process an individual fit. The canting option on many boots can adjust the angle of the boots shaft eg. for skiers with bowed legs. How much comfort wished varies from skier to skier. For extra comfort one can take the option of a personally formed inner sole or foot bed, or maybe taking a boot heater for those extra cold days.

Mondo Point:
All ski boots are measured and marked with a so called mondo point system. This system covers the normal UK, US and EUR sizes. Unfortunately these sizes differ from brand to brand which is why one should inform themselves before buying over the internet. It is important to know that the difference between the full and half sizes eg. 24.0 and 24.5 is only in the boots volume. The length of the chasis is the same. If your not certain we recommend the half size 24.5 as the volume if needed can be reduced to 24.0 by placing a 3 mm cork plate under the inner sole and therefore raising the foot.

OUR TIP:
Generally it is said that Ski Boot = normal shoe size + 1 number, with children up to 14 years of age + 2 numbers.

Because each manufacturer differs in size you will find a link with each product to a conversion chart. If you are uncertain, it is possible to trace an outline of your feet (very close the the feet) and send us the result to office@sportsprofi.com. We will gladly assist.