I need help picking some ski boots?

Question

I bought some short 135cm skis last year but didn't have time to find boots before my trip in December. I rented some from the local shop and the right one pushed on my shin bone so hard that I had to stop early. My leg actualy hurt for a week afterwards. I want to get an appropriate pair. I'm a newer skier and just do downhill and (since I'm skiing with small twin tips) do a little park. I'm 5'2" if that helps. I don't want to spend a fortune on boots, but need some that I can wear for hours without problems. I'm aking now because there are sales on last years eqipment now! I would also like to get some poles; what height do I need?

Answer 1

The best way to pick new boots is to try them on.  You'll want a boot that is snug but not tight, that lets you move your toes and that holds your heel snug.

Summer is a great time to buy because many shops are getting rid of last year's stuff.  Ask your local ski shop if they have used boots, that's another great money saver as many people trade in boots that are barely used.

If you are a new skier you want a boot that is a little softer, which means it flexes easier at the ankle.  To test ankle flex, put the boots on both feet and jump up and down a few times.  A soft boot will let you jump higher, a stiff boot will not (you'll see when you start trying on different boots and jumping.)  You'll want a stiffer boot as you ski more.

What Jim (above) said about pole length is right on.  You can also get those used if you want to save a little $$$

Other than good boots, make sure you have good long undies and waterproof gloves, that way you can stay outside all day!

Answer 2

Try some on. You can ask people what they think but the fact is they don't have the same foot as you. Go to your local shop and TRY them ON. Your foot will tell you what will work for you. As for fisher being "c**p" do your self a favor and don't listen to anybody on this sight, 8 of the top 10 skiers on the world cup were on Fisher boots. remember you don't have the same foot so Still try them on. And there is a difference in the cheap boots. All I can say is Spend the time and if you need to the money so you can ski all day and have fun.

Answer 3

Get LANGE ski boots. they're awesome!

Answer 4

eh for years i used ( lowa) if u can find them where u are,

now a days they make them cheap and in china etc, u maybecareful and buy a european type, and always try them then buy them, i mena u can rent the exact one and see if its ok, then u can go buy it in store,

fischer shoes are c**p,

but hey skiing almost give a lil pain but not much, u may wear a thin socks  with boots not towel one,

and

when u are buying a boot, see if there is extra presure on yer feet or not,

now a days boots can  be fix by their butons and they can at last give u a  comfort position but u may need ask a  good store, not all knwo about it,,

they can give u  magazine etc,, but never trsut that if the things is more expensive it can be better

Answer 5

Go to your local ski shops and start by asking questions of them now.  Explain you are in the market for boots. This is the off season and  the selection is very limited. The advantage is they have time to talk with you. Try on some if there are any in the store.  You need to know what brand and model may fit you properly. The shell size  and shape are critical to good performance and comfort. The best boot for one person may not be the best boot for you.  After you find the correct boot, you will need foot beds and leg alignment and ramp checks.  All of these items will allow you to ski in your boots 6-8 hours and let your feet be ready to go dancing after a day skiing.   The ski boots will last 3-5 years of heavy use.  

    The pain you describe is called a boot bite and is very common  at the start of every season.  I teach full time and when I'm getting started each fall, I wear my boots around the house for 2-3 weeks to get used to them.  Part of the shin bruise is getting used to the boots. Part is fit, and the rest is how tight you have them buckled around your leg. If you do not move in the cuff of the boot, it is very hard to bruise your leg.  Start early in the season wearing your boots a little time each day.  The ski and boot sales start around Labor Day, but unless you know just what you need,  IMHO they are not where you should buy a pair of boots.  Most of the help at these sales are marginally experienced and are very busy.  

  As to your ski poles, hold them in your hand with the basket above your thumb, the shaft should be vertical and just touch the floor, with your elbow at a 90 degree bend to you upper arm.  But them no shorter than this, but you can have them trimmed  in just a couple of minutes to this length.

Answer 6

sorry its a bit long but its worth it

the boots are a little harder to help you with. the best way to do it is to try a bunch on and try pushing forwards with your shins. there should be someone in the store to help with sizing. you want the comfortable amount of flex when you push forwards with your shins. after you have decided witch pair you like and go skiing on them, their may be a pressure point somewhere on your foot  that you didn't notice before. you can take it back to the store and tell them where the pressure point is and they will punch it out so the pressure point is gone.

the poles are a bit easier to help with. what you do with them is hold them upside down with the basket just underneath your hand. when they are touching the ground your elbow should be bent at about 45 degrees.

hope this helps

Answer 7

The only thing that matters is fit.  Find a good bootfitter, and spend a couple of hours with them.

That's it.  You don't need to know anything else.