Purchasing Ski Boots
Choosing the correct ski boots is crucial to an enjoyable skiing experience. This guide will assist you in selecting the ski boots best suited to your needs.
Ski boots serve multiple purposes: they must provide comfort, warmth, and the ability to effectively communicate your movements to the skis. Due to the hard plastic shell on the exterior, ensuring a proper fit and comfort is vital for the liner to conform perfectly to your feet.
High-quality ski boots will gradually mould better to the feet that utilise them. Below, you'll find some terms you should familiarise yourself with.
Ski Boot Sizing
The sizing system used for ski boots is known as Mondopoint, which refers to the internal length of the liner measured in centimetres. It’s essential to get the precise size for your new ski boots. They should neither be excessively large nor overly small, as either can negatively impact your skiing enjoyment. With the correct size, plenty of fun on the slopes awaits you.
Ski Boot Fit
You might wonder how snug your ski boots should be. A simple rule is that your toes should move freely while your heel remains relatively secure. The entire boot should closely fit your foot without any specific areas of pressure. Ensuring your boots are comfortable is extremely important.
Flex of Ski Boots
Flex refers to the stiffness or softness of the ski boot's outer shell. Higher numbers indicate a stiffer boot, which results in more precise transfer of movements to the skis—ideal for advanced skiers but challenging for beginners. Low flex is more forgiving, whereas high flex is more responsive and allows for direct control. Men's boots usually have a flex ranging from 80 to 130, while women's boots range from 65 to 110.
Ski Boot Buckles
The majority of our ski boots come with three to four buckles to ensure the foot is securely held. However, most children's ski boots feature just two buckles. These buckles are typically crafted from plastic, but in professional ski boots, they are often made of metal.