How to choose ski boots? Practical guide by S'portofino

Why is choosing the right ski boots so important?

Choosing the right ski boots is one of the most important parts of preparing for skiing because it is the ski boot, not the skis themselves, that has direct contact with the foot and is responsible for stability. Well-fitting boots allow for smooth control of the skis, prevent pressure and fatigue of the feet, and help maintain proper skiing posture. Boots that are too loose can cause loss of control, and those that are too tight can cause discomfort and restrict circulation.

Ski boot stiffness (Flex Index) – what is it and how do I choose it?

The flex index is an important parameter for choosing your ski boots, taking into account the stiffness of the boot. It is the stiffness of the boot shell, chosen according to ability, physical condition, weight and age. It is expressed as a value between 40 and 170. The flex index for women is usually 50-110, and for men it is 70-140. The lower the stiffness index, the softer and more comfortable the boots are for the foot. The higher the flex index, the stiffer the boots are and the more control they guarantee. In addition, they are narrower, so they hold the foot better. They are recommended for advanced skiers. Hard boots offer better control for more advanced skiers.

It is worth noting that although manufacturers state the hardness value of the boots in numbers, there is no universal standard regulating this parameter, which means that the flex of one model may differ from the flex of another, even if they have identical markings. In addition, the shoe shells are made of different materials, such as polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU) or polyamide (PA), which react to temperature to different degrees - some become stiffer in the cold, others remain flexible. This means that comparing models based solely on the declared flex can be misleading. The outer shell of a boot is made of different materials, which affects the boot's properties at different temperatures. To choose the boot that best suits your individual needs, it is best to consult an experienced specialist who can help you find the perfect fit.

Soft ski boots are a better choice for beginners because they provide more comfort and easier control over the skis. Thanks to a more flexible shell, they are forgiving of technical errors, allowing you to gradually build correct posture and balance. In addition, they allow for a more natural knee bend, which is crucial when learning basic turns and braking. Stiffer boots, on the other hand, are designed for more advanced skiers who ski dynamically and aggressively. The hard shell transfers force to the skis more effectively, which increases precision and responsiveness to the skier's movements. These models are suitable for higher speeds, steeper slopes and more difficult conditions where precision and control are crucial.

Flex index for women

• 50-60 – beginner skiers who prioritise comfort while skiing;

• 60-70 – beginner and intermediate skiers;

• 70-90 – advanced skiers;

• 90-110 – very experienced skiers.

Flex index for men

• 70-80 – beginner skiers who prioritise comfort;

• 80-90 – beginner and intermediate skiers;

• 90-110 – advanced skiers;

• over 120 – experts.

How do I choose ski boots that fit my foot?

The width of ski boots is called the last and is measured at the widest part of the foot. To measure the width of the foot, stand on a piece of paper and measure the width in mm at the widest part of the foot. The foot should not be wider than the width of the boot shell, but also not narrower than 5-7% of the width of the shell. When choosing the width of your foot, consider the level of precision you need while skiing. If you want a wide fit, choose narrower boots. A standard fit is suitable for skiers with medium-width feet.

• 92 mm: very narrow, designed for professional skiers;
• 96-98 mm: narrow, for people with narrow feet or skiers who prefer precision;
• 100 mm: for people with a medium-width foot, a good choice for most skiers;
• 102 mm: for people with a wide foot;
• 104 mm: for people with very wide feet.

Please note that new ski boots will adapt to the shape of your foot over time. This process is called ‘breaking in’. It mainly affects the inner boot, which is made of thermoformable foam - under the influence of heat, pressure and repeated use, the material gradually breaks down and adapts to the anatomy of the foot. This increases comfort and the space inside the shoe. That is why the shoes should be well-fitting at the beginning, even a little tight, because after a few days of skiing, the insole will ‘adapt’ and the shoes will become more comfortable. However, if they are too loose from the start, they may lose stability after a crash, which will negatively affect the control of the skis. For this reason, it is worth choosing boots with a slight pressure, and if necessary, take advantage of the possibility of adjusting the insole or thermoforming.

How can you measure your foot size for ski boots at home? Step-by-step instructions

How do you choose the right ski boot size? You can measure your foot at home without special tools using our instructions.

What do you need?

• A sheet of paper (preferably A4),
• a pen or pencil,
• a ruler or measuring tape,
• a wall.

Step 1: Preparation

It is best to take the measurement in the evening when your feet are a little bigger after a day. Put on the ski sock you intend to wear in your ski boots.

Step 2: Position of the foot

Place a sheet of paper on the floor against a wall. Bend your knees slightly and place your heel against the wall. Your foot should be in a natural position and your weight evenly distributed.

Step 3: Outline your foot

Ask someone to help you or, if you are doing it alone, gently bend over and trace the outline of your foot with a pencil, holding it perpendicular to the sheet of paper.

Mark the furthest point of the toes - usually the tip of the big toe, but for some people it may be the second toe.

Step 4: Measuring the length of the foot

Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance from the edge of the paper (where the heel was) to the farthest point of the toes. Write down the result, this will be your foot length, e.g. 26.7 cm.

Step 5: Checking the width of the foot (optional)

It is also useful to measure the width of the foot by measuring the widest point of the metatarsus. Ski boots come in different widths (last, e.g. 98 mm, 100 mm, 102 mm), so if you have a wide foot, it is worth taking this into account when choosing a ski boot model.

Additional tips

• Measure both feet – sometimes they differ in length, in which case choose the size based on the longer foot.
• If your measurement falls between two sizes, choose the smaller one, as ski boots should be snug and have a snug interior.
• Check the manufacturer's size chart - some models may differ in shape or fit.

That's it. Now you have an accurate measurement of your foot and can choose the perfect ski boots.

Types of ski boots – which to choose?

Depending on your skiing style, level of advancement and individual preferences, there are several types of ski boots available on the market. Here are the most important ones:

Downhill boots

This is the most common type of ski boot. It is designed for skiing on prepared slopes. They are characterised by a rigid construction that ensures precise power transmission to the skis. They are available in different flex variants, so that they can be adjusted to your skills – soft for beginners, harder for advanced skiers. Women's ski boots often have a lower cuff to accommodate the anatomical differences in the calf and ankle muscles.

Freeride boots

These are designed for people who prefer off-piste skiing. They are slightly wider and more comfortable than standard downhill boots, yet they still allow you to control your skis well on difficult terrain. Some models are also suitable for walking on the snow. The flex of this type of ski boot is usually low. The soft shell increases the range of motion of the leg in the boot and absorbs strong impacts to protect the bones and joints.

Ski touring boots

This type of ski boot combines the features of downhill and approach boots. Their important feature is their minimal weight. They make it easier to ascend on skis during ski touring trips. Thanks to the high rotation of the upper, the stride length is extended, which saves a lot of energy. Ski touring boots should fit snugly on the foot so that you can ski downhill in any kind of snow without any problems.

Comfort on the slopes – what should you look for when choosing ski boots?

Fastening systems – buckles and Velcro

Ski boots have 2 to 4 buckles, as well as a Velcro strap (so-called power strap). The more buckles, the better the fit, but also the more pressure on the foot. The buckles on most models have micro-adjustment, which allows for proper adjustment of the fastening force. When choosing ski boots, it is also worth paying attention to the possibility of macro-adjustment, i.e. the possibility of changing the position of the buckle. It is also worth remembering that after some time, the usually soft inner shoe will settle and more space will appear inside, which will result in the shoe holding less tightly. In that case, the buckles should be fastened.

Warmth and breathability

Good ski boots should keep you warm and at the same time provide adequate ventilation so that your feet do not overheat. Some ski boot models are equipped with special ventilation holes. Ski boot models with an additional layer of insulation or a breathable membrane are a great choice for cold days.

Insoles

It is also worth checking whether the ski boots have anatomical or thermoformable insoles that adapt to the shape of the foot when heated.

Grip Walk – what is it?

Grip Walk is a replaceable anti-slip sole for ski boots made of a special rubber mixture and shaped to mimic the anatomy of the human foot. Grip Walk soles increase comfort when walking on hard surfaces and provide better grip. The toe, midfoot and heel are rounded, which makes rolling the foot easier. This makes walking more natural and walking in a hut, for example, much more comfortable.

If you are wondering whether boots with Grip Walk technology will fit with bindings, the rule is quite simple - if you buy ski boots with Grip Walk and skis with Grip Walk bindings, they will match. What if you are only replacing part of your ski equipment? That's not a problem either. Grip Walk technology is a replaceable system – the pads are attached with screws – so replacing them is not difficult. However, remember not to attach the ski boots to the skis without such a binding, as you may not be able to detach them.

The skier's weight and its impact on the choice of boots

When choosing ski boots, it is also worth taking your weight into account. Manufacturers design boots for people of average weight, so if your weight deviates from the norm, it is worth taking this into account. For example, a 50 kg woman can choose boots with a lower flex, which will provide her with greater comfort and manoeuvrability. On the other hand, a 110 kg man should choose stiffer boots that will better transfer force to the skis and provide greater control.

Bootfitting – professional shoe fitting

What is bootfitting? It is the process of professionally fitting ski boots to your individual needs. It involves adjusting the boot shell and liner to the shape of the foot, which ensures a perfect fit. Bootfitting should be done by a specialist who has the right tools and experience in this field. Bootfitting includes thermoforming insoles, modifying the boot shell and adjusting the buckles. It is also worth paying attention to the MyFit technology in ski boots, which allows you to individually adjust both the shell and the inner boot to the shape of your foot, ensuring maximum comfort.

The most common mistakes when choosing ski boots

Buying the right ski boots is not an easy task. Many people make mistakes that can negatively affect their skiing and endanger their safety on the slopes. Below, we list the most common mistakes made when choosing ski boots.

Choosing shoes that are too big

This is one of the most common and serious mistakes, especially among beginner skiers. Although it seems that bigger boots will be more comfortable, in practice this leads to many problems, such as lack of control over the skis, pain and chafing, or feet freezing faster. To avoid this mistake, try on the boots in the shop and check that the heel does not rise when you bend your knees. Remember that new boots should initially be tight, because after a few runs, the inside of the boot will break in.

Incorrect boot stiffness

Many people choose boots that are too stiff, which can make it difficult to transfer weight to the front of the ski and cause frequent falls. Boots that are too stiff can also cause you to tire more quickly because they require more force to make movements.

Failure to try on boots with full equipment

Another mistake made by beginners is trying on boots with bare feet or wearing regular socks. Why should you try on boots with ski socks? Because ski socks are thinner than regular socks, but provide a better fit and warmth. If you try on boots with thick socks, you might buy a size too big. It is also a good idea to put on the boots, lace them up and stand in them for a few minutes in a skiing position (with slightly bent knees) to make sure that the boots fit properly.

Ski boots for beginners – recommended models

Dalbello Cabrio ski boots

The progressive Cabrio model is a ski boot designed for women. With a width of 101 mm, they provide comfort and a perfect fit, while the three-piece Cabrio design guarantees progressive flex, cushioning and precise power transmission. This is a great choice for female skiers looking for versatile boots that combine comfort, precision and style. They are ideal for any terrain, providing maximum performance and control on the slopes.

Dalbello Veloce 90 MV ski boots

The Veloce 90 MV is a ski boot that combines precise ski control with comfort. The double-injected shell makes it easy to put on and ensures stability, while the Hyperlight cuff and optimal flex guarantee excellent foot hold and effective power transmission. The sporty liner provides warmth and the MyFit technology allows for individual adjustment. The buckles distribute pressure evenly and the GripWalk soles improve traction when walking. This is a great choice for those looking for dynamic turns and confident ski control.

Dalbello Veloce 85 MV W ski boots

Veloce 85 W GW ski boots are a perfect combination of comfort and performance. The polyurethane shell makes them easy to put on and ensures stability, while the Hyperlight cuff and optimal flex guarantee a secure foot position and precise ski control. The sporty liner provides warmth and the MyFit technology allows for a perfect fit. GripWalk soles improve grip when walking.

What else is worth knowing about choosing ski boots?

Choosing the right ski boots means riding comfort and guaranteed convenience and full control on the slopes. When choosing ski boots, pay particular attention to the fit – the boots should fit snugly around your feet without causing any pain. They may feel a little tight at first, but after a few days of skiing, the inner padding will mould to the shape of your foot. The stiffness of the shell, or flex, is also an important factor. Beginners should choose more flexible models that make manoeuvring easier, while more rigid boots are better for advanced skiers.

Thermal comfort is also important. Boots with good insulation and a fitted inner boot will keep you warm even in cold temperatures. It is worth trying on boots with suitable ski socks to avoid pinching or a too loose fit. Modern technologies, such as thermoformable insoles, allow for even better adaptation of the boot to individual needs.

Well-chosen ski boots are an investment that will translate into comfort, safety and better skiing technique. That is why it is worth taking the time to find a model that is perfectly suited to your level of advancement, foot shape and skiing style.