Comfortable boots are an integral piece of equipment for people who want to get serious about Nordic skiing. Nordic skiing, also called cross-country skiing, is a great form of low impact, outdoor, winter exercise. It is possible to burn up to 600 calories per hour with Nordic skiing. A good pair of Nordic ski boots will allow you maximum comfort, so you can stay out on the trail blasting calories longer.
What to Look for
Two categories of Nordic ski boots, each with a different binding system, are widely available today. The binding systems are called three-pin bindings and system bindings. Cable boot and binding is a third system, but these are antiquated, and you will probably only encounter them if you are looking at used equipment. Experts recommend choosing between three-pin and system bindings and boots.
Boots fitted with a three-pin binding system tend to be constructed from soft material and are a bit wider through the toe, allowing greater side-to-side flexibility while skiing. Boots fitted with a system binding probably will have a hard plastic sole and a hard plastic outer layer. This provides your foot with extra stabilization for forward motion but restricts side-to-side motion. System boots are a bit narrower through the toe, because the boots do not have to accommodate the larger, three-pin binding system. Experiment and see which type of boot fits you better and which type of binding system you prefer. In the end you will want a boot that fits snug to your foot, like a comfortable pair of running shoes. Any areas of the boot that feel too tight or too loose are likely to create hot spots or blisters later on. Also, look for boots models that go over your ankles, as they will provide extra support as you ski.
Common Pitfalls
Buy boots with a binding system that will match your skis. If you do not plan on buying your own skis, call your local Nordic Center and see which binding system they use. Also remember your boots may "pack out" or slightly stretch after you have worn them a number of times. If you need to choose between boots that feel a bit too snug and a bit too loose, go with the smaller size.
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