Once you have been skiing a few times and decided you like the sport, it is highly recommended that you buy your own gear. This allows you to be comfortable with your equipment and focus on improving your skiing skills, instead of spending time adjusting to new equipment each day. Comfortable ski boots are your single most important piece of skiing equipment. They will make or break your day and your entire experience with the sport. The fit is the most important aspect of a pair of ski boots. You should try on lots of different brands and styles before you make your final decision.
What to Look for
Make sure your boots have a snug and uniform fit, with no hot spots (tight areas) or loose spots. The best way to test for this is the shell test: Remove the liner of the boot and stand with your foot in the outer shell. Adjust the clips on the shell so the boot fits your foot as naturally as possible. If any part of the shell rubs your foot uncomfortably or feels too loose, try a different brand, size or style. Remember, while you can adjust the fastenings on the outer shell to adjust the overall fit, the shape of the shell will never change. If it fits you uncomfortably, simply keep shopping. The shape of the liner on the other hand, is highly variable. If you are having trouble finding comfortable liners, consider getting a custom insole made for your ski boots.
Common Pitfalls
Wear ski socks when going to try on your boots and make sure you try on a large variety of different styles and brands. Walk around in your boots for at least 10 minutes in the store. Lean forward and from side to side to imitate the motions of skiing. If possible, get the boots clipped into a pair of skis so you can see what they feel like when you are attached to a pair of bindings. After all, you are not buying your boots for walking around. Typically ski boots feel different once they are attached to a pair of bindings. You will realize where they may feel tight or loose as you are skiing. Make sure the gear store has a knowledgeable staff--as they are fitting you for ski boots they should be asking questions about your skiing ability, preferred terrain, height, weight and the amount of time you spend skiing. All these variables affect your final choice and the sales staff should be able to make specific recommendations based on your answers.
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