Big toe nails falls off when I ski?

Question

I have a custom made boot by a French boot maker.

Still, every season both my big toe nails turn black and falls off.

I ski 7-8 days at a time, and about 21-28 days total a season.

When I ski, I ski hard from 9AM to 4PM, mostly on the moguls.

I'm an advanced skiier on the groomed but sucks on the moguls.

My boot fitter says the way I ski, he can't make any boot that won't make my big toe nails come off no matter how much I pay for them.

He suggested having both my big toe nails be permanently removed or start skiing "easier"

Anyone have the same problem I have with big toe nails?

Answer 1

The problem is your toes are hitting the boot. Every time you hit a bump, you bruise the toe, Either your boots are too small, or your foot is moving in the boot.  You need proper fitting foot beds and boots, also the boots must be tight so you do not move.  If this boot fitter can not make the adjustments, find one who can.  Maybe he sold a pair the wrong size  to you and won't make the adjustment needed.

Answer 2

AAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH my toes. dude, that's fucked-up, some marvelous dedication to a great sport. Have you tried other boots, just incase the french ones are the cause of the problem? you could rent a pair for the first few days next time you go, see if the problem persists.

Answer 3

Your bootfitter has issues, find a new one.

Answer 4

It means that your custom made boots do not fit you.  They are too small and your big toe is crammed into the front of the boot.

How about wearing another pair of socks to help cushion the blow (but that might not help becuase there might not be enough room).

Removing your toe nails sounds a bit drastic...maybe if you were a professional skier, but (even though you ski hard), it sounds like you are a recreational skier.

Answer 5

Wait just on second. DON'T GO BIGGER. Most toe nail related problems happen in a boot that is too big or not being held back in the boot. There are several things you can try. One a custom foot bed. This will support your foot and not allow your foot to shift in the boot. If you already have one try a Shin shim. This forces you heel back in to the pocket again not allowing that foot to shift. Your boot fitter is not looking at the problem go see others. It never hurts to have a second opinion.