How to Buy New Ski Boots
Ski boots are among the most important piece of skiing equipment. An experienced boot retailer should determine your weight and leg length; skiing style and ability; and the type of snow and terrain you prefer to ski before you try on boots.
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Size
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Determining the proper size and width is essential. Giving the boot tech honest feedback while determining boot size should ensure you leave the store with boots that fit perfectly.
Flex
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Boot makers use a numbering system to assign stiffness values to boots. The less flex a boot has, the higher the number. Flex numbers vary among brands and should be used as a guide; an experienced boot salesperson can help you decide the amount of flex that is right for your skiing style.
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Features
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A pair of wool-blend ski socks can enhance the comfort of your ski boots. Once flex and size have been determined, there are adjustable features such as buckles, liners, shell materials and boot heaters that can be added or adjusted for maximum comfort.
Cost
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Ski boot prices vary greatly, so decide on your price range before you shop. Many experts recommend committing 50 percent of your equipment budget to boots.
Warning
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Be sure your newly purchased boots are fitted to your bindings by a certified expert. The most common mistake people make is buying boots that are too large. Boots loosen with each use and should feel quite snug when brand new.
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References
- Photo Credit botte de ski image by fraenz from Fotolia.com socks image by Paolo from Fotolia.com ski equipment - ski-binding image by Daria Miroshnikova from Fotolia.com
