Ski Boots: A Perfect Fit, Please

Downhill skiing provides an exhilarating feeling and an excellent workout, too. But as with most winter sports, skiing requires proper equipment and footwear to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Don’t ruin your ski holiday with ill-fitting ski boots. Choosing the right kind of ski boots will enhance your skiing experience and make it more enjoyable.

When choosing ski boots to buy or rent, it’s important to remember that boots should be comfortable. Ski boots should be snug and have an accurate fit. If the boots are too loose, your foot and ankle can slide around inside the boot, potentially leading to sprains, strains, and fractures caused by the constant forward and lateral movement of skiing. If boots are too tight, they will rub and blister your foot. The boots must be rigid enough to keep your feet and ankles firmly in place. The toe box should be snug but not too tight.

Ski boots are available in a forward-entry style, a rear-entry style, or a hybrid style that incorporates both designs. Skiers who use custom orthotics to correct biomechanical imbalances can transfer orthotics to ski boots to help maintain the best possible foot position. To find the right boot, work with ski shop technicians who are familiar with different foot types. If you have purchased new boots, bring them to your podiatric physician so your foot can be evaluated with the boot.

Finally, a good pair of socks is crucial for winter sports like skiing. Socks will keep your feet dry, warm, and comfortable in your boots. Take socks along with you when having your ski boots fitted.

What’s true for you is also true for your child. Don’t try to get by with last year’s ski boots. Children’s feet grow rapidly, therefore make sure all equipment fits properly and is the correct size.

Tips for Snowboarding

Because boots for snowboarding differ from ski boots, here are few tips to keep in mind when purchasing or renting snowboard boots.

• Make sure  to get real snowboard boots (not hiking boots) that fit correctly to keep your feet comfortable and warm.

• To determine proper fit  try on both boots and lace them up completely. Laces should be snug. Stand up and walk around to see if the boot laces remain snug. Pay attention to whether the boots rub or pinch anywhere.

• Try on both boots  while wearing thin synthetic socks with padding. Synthetic socks are preferred to control moisture as well as prevent friction.