How To Choose Alpine Ski Boots

Alpine ski boots support your feet and help you transfer energy to your skis. They feature a stiff plastic shell for stability on downhill slopes, as well as a soft inner liner for maximum comfort. Fit is the most important element when it comes to choosing alpine boots, according to "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Skiing." Poorly fitting boots not only take the fun out of skiing, but also reduce performance and improvement for skiers of all skill levels.

Step 1

Visit a local ski shop or sporting goods store, and get measured for new boots. Let an experienced sales associate measure your feet and help you find the right boots, because different brands and styles of alpine boots fit differently.

Step 2

Try your boots on. Check the fit. Your toes should sit near the front of the boot, but shouldn't feel jammed or pinched. You should not be able to lift your heel within the boot, or slide your foot along the length of the boot. Keep trying boots until you find the perfect fit.

Step 3

Wear the boots around the store for at least 20 minutes. Don't buy boots that don't feel comfortable after this 20-minute period. A soft, comfortable fit is key to skill progression and an enjoyable skiing experience.

Step 4

Check the bindings by examining the bottom of the boot. Make sure the binding mechanism matches the one on your bindings or skis. Different binding systems are not interchangeable.

Step 5

Test the buckles and bindings on your boots. Unbuckle the boots from your feet a few times, and rebuckle them again. Test the buckles to see that they operate smoothly and don't create pressure points on your feet. You should be able to operate the buckles without assistance from the sales staff. Test whether you can quickly and easily put your boots on and take them off.

Step 6

Ask about cant adjustment options. Downhill boots often allow you to adjust the cant, or angle of your ankle, within the boot. Look for boots that offer a high degree of flex or cant if you plan to ski primarily in powder or on moguls. If you're new to the sport and plan to ski primarily on hard-packed snow, minimal cant adjustment is required.