A properly fitting ski boot can make the difference between a day of great skiing and a poor one resulting in sore legs and ankles or even an accident. It affects how much control you exercise over speed and turns. Whether renting or buying, be sure that your ski boots fit correctly before hitting the slopes. Typical sizes are based on foot shape and interior boot soles using metric measurements. Choose a boot designed for your skill level.
Step 1
Wear the same or similar thickness of socks you plan to wear skiing.
Step 2
Measure your foot on the scale or have a professional do it for you.
Step 3
Choose a boot of appropriate size and for your experience level as a skier.
Step 4
Unbuckle the boot and remove the liner. Place the boot flat on the floor.
Step 5
Insert your foot into the boot. Slide your foot all the way forward. Measure or estimate the rear gap and remove your foot. When there is more than 3/4 of an inch gap between your heel and the back of the boot, choose a smaller size. Repeat this step until there is 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch.
Step 6
Set the boot liner flat on the floor. Slide your foot into the liner. Your toe tips should barely touch the liner. The liner should not bulge or strain to fit the sides of your foot. Choose a wider boot when it does, repeating steps 4 through 6 until it fits correctly.
Step 7
Place the empty boot on a hard surface. Insert one hand into the liner and open the boot with the other. Push the liner into the boot. Press hard on the back of the insert until the liner is fully seated.
Step 8
Open the boot and pull the tongue forward. Slide your foot into the boot. Stamp on the ground to ensure your heel is down as far as possible.
Step 9
Fasten the lowest buckle on the top section, followed by the bottom buckles, then the rest of the top ones. When you must wrestle with them to close, choose a larger boot and repeat steps 4 through 9.
Step 10
Stand up with the boot on. The boot should be snug but not tight. You should be able to wiggle your toes. Choose a smaller size when your heel slides from side to side or front to back. Choose a larger size when your toes hurt or foot circulation is compromised.
Step 11
Bend your knees, shifting your shins against the boot front. It should flex forward slightly to suit your skill level. Boots that do not move are too firm for your experience or weight and should be exchanged for a softer flex.
Step 12
Test the boots' fit in your ski bindings for proper release.
Step 13
Walk and stand in the boots for about 15 minutes before deciding to purchase them. When they still feel snug and comfortable, they have the proper fit. Boots that hurt are too tight.
Tips and Warnings
- For your first pair, have a professional assist you in choosing the right boot size. Do not look for your standard shoe size. Ski boots use a different system. Try on both boots. They may fit differently. Shop in the afternoon or evening, when your feet are swollen from a typical day's activities.
Things You'll Need
- Socks
- Boot size scale
- Ski boots
- Ruler (optional)
- Skis with bindings
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