How to choose your ski boots ?

Ski boots are one of, if not the most important part of ski equipment, it is through them that your movements are transmitted to your skis. They must be precise and comfortable.

The three main criteria for choosing ski boots are :
- The boot shell length
- The boot volume
- The boot stiffness or flex
The boot shell length depends on the size of your feet. It is important that the boots be your size and no bigger.

 

Bigger boots are not more comfortable, can give you blisters, cramps and give you less control over you skis.

The same goes for the boot volume (width of your foot and hight of your instep). Too large and you will not be held in place enough resulting in less control and less comfort. Too thin and blood circulation will be impaired resulting in pain and cold feet.

Lastly boot stiffness or flex will depend on your weight and level.

Flex is comprised between 70 and 130. The higher the index the stiffer the boot.

If a boot is too stiff you will have difficulty bending forward and controlling yous skis properly. If the boot is too soft and bends easily power transition will not be as good.