Buying Guide Ski Boots
Ski boots are undoubtedly the most important part of your equipment. The connection between you and your skis is through your ski boots. If they don't fit well, your skiing will immediately suffer. Skiing definitely becomes both better and more enjoyable with a pair of well-fitting ski boots! Moreover, it's also true that you actually become a significantly better skier, thanks to the control a pair of well-fitted ski boots provide.
One of the most common mistakes people encounter is that many ski in boots that are too big. A slalom boot that is too large can actually, even if it sounds strange, cause both pressure on certain points and even cramps. The main reason for this is that the foot is not held securely, which causes you to tense your foot. Generally, it's better for the boot to feel a little too tight the first time you put your foot in. This way, once you've broken them in, or we've helped you mold them, the boots will provide a better foundation to ultimately fit perfectly on your feet. It's generally better to start with a boot that's a little too tight than one that's slightly too big.
Does it really matter if the ski boots are too big? Can't you just buckle them a bit tighter? No, is the simple answer. Generally, you don't want to have to buckle the boot very tightly. The best fit is when the boot fits so well that the buckle's main job is to hold the boot together and slightly control the flex. If you have to buckle your boot too tightly, so-called pressure points easily occur, as the boot no longer closes evenly around your foot.
It can feel difficult to choose the right ski boot for your alpine skiing. That's why we've created this buying guide to help you choose the right boot more easily.
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Choose the right size for your ski boot
Keep track of your foot size. The easiest way to do this is to place your foot against a wall and trace it onto a piece of paper. Then measure at the longest point; that's your size in cm. For example, if you measure 25.2 cm, your size should be around 25.5. However, this is not a guarantee, partly because manufacturers measure slightly differently, and partly because more than just length plays a role. It also depends on the fit you are looking for. It is not uncommon for someone who measures, for example, 25.2 to choose a boot in 24.5, to get a really secure fit for their foot.
Another measurement to consider is the last width. Measure your foot at the widest point at the front after you've traced your foot; that's your last measurement. The last on ski boots is measured in size 26.5. After that, generally speaking, the measurement increases or decreases by 2 mm per size. For example, if your foot measures 27.5 and the last is 102 mm, you should look for a boot with a last measurement of 100 mm. It's always better to ensure you get the correct last width than to, for example, go up a size in the wrong model. Here too, the desired fit plays a role. It's not at all uncommon to choose a last measurement slightly narrower than your foot if you want to achieve a precise fit. For the best fit, it's better to start with something that's a bit too tight and create space where needed, rather than the other way around.
Do you have a high instep? The top of the instep is often the most critical point for how the boot fits. You want an evenly distributed pressure and no sharp pressure points down on the foot. We help find a suitable model and customize it if needed.
Which flex should I choose?
Flex refers to how stiff the ski boot is and, in practice, how much power you can transfer to the skis. A common misconception is that a hard flex is always good. Of course, a stiffer boot transfers more power in theory, but only as long as you, as a skier, have the strength and technique to generate it. If your ski boot is too stiff, the result will instead be that you don't get any pressure to the skis, which in turn means you won't get edge grip and control. With that said, it's important to have a flex that suits you and your skiing.
There's no good rule of thumb that says "this is the flex you should have." There's no industry standard for this, which means that two different brands with a flex of 110 can feel quite different. The number is more of a guide to the boot's stiffness. It's also affected by the plastic the boot is made from, the inner liner, and the type of strap it has. One of the most important things, often forgotten, is how much the fit actually affects the stiffness of the boot. A roomy or slightly too large boot will always feel softer than one with a tight fit. This is because the foot moves inside the boot before it can start to transfer power to the boot.
Generally, the flex you should choose depends on your skiing ability as well as your weight. A heavier and more powerful skier needs a stiffer boot than someone who is lighter.
Should I choose a ski boot with walk mode?
Today, there are many ski boots that combine a good walk mode with high skiing stability. If you're going uphill on a ski tour or shorter off-piste trips, the choice is simple. Choose a boot with walk mode and the ability to use tech bindings. This makes the ascent significantly more comfortable without having to compromise too much on the downhill performance.
But even for those who don't plan ski touring, a boot with walk mode can be a good choice. You get good alpine performance, where the skiing feel is not noticeably affected by the function. The extra freedom of movement also makes it easier to walk between lifts or around the ski village.
At the same time, it's important to be aware that a pure alpine boot still provides the most direct power transmission. For those who seek maximum precision in every turn, such as an advanced piste skier, it might be worth choosing a traditional model without walk mode. The difference is mainly noticeable in rebound and response, but only truly experienced skiers usually feel it clearly.
In summary, it's about how you use your boots. Do you want versatility and comfort even off the slopes? Then walk mode is a smart choice. Do you focus entirely on piste skiing and want absolute performance? Then a classic alpine boot is still the best option.
Today, there are many models that offer both a good walk mode and good skiing stability. If you're going uphill, the obvious choice is a boot with walk mode and the ability to use tech bindings. Today, however, you can choose a boot with walk mode even if you don't plan a ski tour. There are many models that offer good alpine performance, where the skiing is not hindered by the walk mode.
However, if you go into detail about power transmission and performance, nothing beats a pure alpine boot. If you are a discerning piste skier, a walk mode serves no direct function. Some differences in rebound and power transmission may be noticeable, especially if you are a very skilled skier. Most of us probably won't feel much of a difference. In any case, it's important to be clear about your intended use and choose the right equipment.
Molded sole for the best fit
To further improve the fit, we recommend a custom-molded insole. This involves replacing the insole in the ski boot with one that we custom-mold to your foot. The purpose of a custom-molded insole is to provide foot support and ensure more even pressure distribution. Molding is done to support all the arches of the foot. One might think that only the arch on the inside is affected, but that's not quite the case. It is, of course, the most noticeable, but we also have an outer arch further back, towards the heel bone. And also a transverse arch between the toe joints. They are all affected differently by load, and how much varies greatly from person to person.
The molding is done when the foot is in a relaxed position, which prevents the foot from changing shape too much under load. A foot under load often becomes both longer and wider. Add pronation and supination, i.e., the angling that occurs in the ankle, and it's easy to understand what an insole can do. It's not uncommon for an insole to make such a big difference that you can actually go down a size.
If you have excessive pronation, meaning an inward angling of the ankle, this can create pressure points. Both on and around the ankle bone, and on the outside of the foot. When this happens, it's easy to feel that the ski boot is too narrow. By supporting the arch with an insole, you prevent the foot from collapsing inward. This can relieve pressure points.
An insole that helps relieve the foot also increases blood circulation. This means that your feet don't get tired as quickly and also that they actually get warmer. More even and better blood flow combined with relaxed feet also prevents cramps that can occur if the ski boots don't fit properly.
We specialize in ski boots
We are passionate about skiing and ski boots. The best thing you can do is come to the store. We will help you measure your foot and find a ski boot that suits you and your skiing style. We have a full bootfitting workshop and can adjust the boots when needed. So a warm welcome to us in the store at Isaberg, we will help you find the right ski boot for wonderful ski days ahead.
Can't you come to us? Of course, we can give you advice by email or phone! Just contact us, we are more than happy to help!
