Four Tips for Choosing a Pair of Ski Boots

Skiing is a fun and exciting sport, but it takes the right equipment to be safe on the slopes. This starts with choosing ski boots. The intended use, type of boot, features, and fit, are all very important considerations. Choosing ski boots begins with choosing what typeis best for you.

The most common type used for adults are front-entry boots, These have a tongue that bends forward to allow one to put one's foot in, hence front-entry, and multiple buckles to lock the foot into position. The two other types, rear- and mid-entry, are less common because they offer less stability and control. However, for beginning skiers who don't intend to do anything particularly intense or young children who may have difficulty with the front-entry type, they are still a viable alternative.

The intended use of the ski also makes a difference in choosing ski boots. For downhill skiing, alpine ski boots are preferred. These attach to skis at both the toe and the heel and provide the greatest degree of control. For cross-country skiing where most travel is done on a level surface, the boots generally only attach at the front. Boots that only attach at the toe are also used in telemarking, which is a particular turning technique use in downhill skiing by some experienced skiers. There are certain combination boots that can be configured for both alpine and cross-country use, but choosing ski boots of this type is not something that a beginner should do given the knowledge necessary to reconfigure them.

In choosing ski boots, the features a boot are important. The general features-a hard outer shell for protection, a soft inner boot for comfort, and buckles to hold the boot on-are standard across brands. However, the number of buckles and their placement on the boot can make a great difference in the fit, and preference differs from person to person. The thickness and design of the inner boots can also vary across brands, and it may be worth trying on multiple boots to determine which ones have the best feel. This includes avoiding seaming anywhere that might put unintended pressure on the leg and potentially cut off circulation or that might rub in a way that could cause blisters.

After determining which type of ski boot is desired, choosing ski boots comes down to fit. In downhill skiing, there should be a small amount of flex at the ankle and nowhere else, while cross-country skiers should have some flex at the ball of the foot as well. In no circumstance should the ankle be able to twist or the foot slide around in the boot. There are flex adjustments that can be made to allow the ankle to bend more or less, depending on preference and terrain, as well as lean adjustments that can change the angle that the shin is held at. Many boots also offer a buckle or pressure plate at the toe that can be tightened to a comfortable level to keep one's toes in place.

Sources:

About.com Skiing
Nordic Track Ski Machine