Finding the right ski boots?

Question

Hi guys, I'm currently looking for a pair of new ski boots. I haven't had a pair of my own in a few years and need to get a pair. I'm a fairly good skiier and am comfortable on pretty much any terrain and am wondering about what I should get. I tried on a few pairs at a ski shop and I find it hard to get a pair that is comfortable. I was able to find one pair but the flex rating is only at 60 which from my research appears to be a beginner rating.

Normally I wouldn't really care but I am a big guy, about 6'4" 270 pounds and I'm wondering if this low flex rating will just be far too low for me.

Anyone have any advice on if this is definately too low or if they'll do?

Many thanks

Answer 1

Although boot flex varies from boot manufacturer to manufacturer, I would agree that a boot with a 60 Flex would be a little soft for your size.

I am sure you know your ski boots are by far the most important ski equipment purchase you are going to make. At your current ability level owning a good pair ski boots is a must if you want to advance in skiing. I am sure you are aware that the boot is the transmitter of your skiing movements to the ski. The right boot will help you improve as a skier. Now unless you know exactly the type of boot you want and need, use the internet and magazine reviews for research only.

Since there are so many ski boots which come in all types and sizes for all types of skiers, the only real way to know which boot is right for your skiing ability and foot shape is to try them on. I am talking about multiple pairs of boots from different makers. In order to do this, you need to get yourself to a ski shop. Now you wouldn't buy your surf board in Nebraska before going to surf in Hawaii, so get your ski gear in a ski town. The better shops carry multiple brands of boots to accommodate all levels and types of skiers.

It sounds like you have tried on some boots all ready it just sounds like the shop was not the right one. I suggest you look for a ski shop affiliated with America’s Best Boot Fitters, http://www.bootfitters.com/. The boot fitters at these shops have attended seminars taught by the best of the best in the industry and have the best knowledge to deal with all kinds of foot issues (bone spurs, hammer toes, nerve damage, etc). They can also help determine what else you may need in terms of canting and foot beds. Any expert skier will tell to spend the extra money for the custom foot bed, they all use them.

Now be prepared to stay for a while. Unless you have the perfect foot, a good boot fitting will take a couple of hours, along with maybe a couple of return visits for tune ups. You must go in with the mind set that boot fitting is a process. It takes time to identify a problem and work it out. Often times fixing one thing identifies another which needs to be fixed. So go in prepared.

Lastly and this is important. Mentally get it into your head that you will not be put into a ski boot which is BIGGER than your street shoe size. Your foot will just be swimming inside of it and it will not help you get any better. Upper level skiers all have boots which are the same as their street shoe or smaller. It is a question of control and performance.

Going in mentally prepared for the process and the time it will take, will make the experience more enjoyable. The pay off will be happy feet in a ski boot which can help take your skiing to the next level.

Answer 2

1 word: lange

if not try dynastar.com

Answer 3

Go to a professional ski shop that carries the same brand as the boot you liked, ask in advance if they have a more advanced model of that boot, I suspect you will need a pro or race model boot because of your size. The 60 flex rating is just too soft for you, you need the support,including footbeds, of a boot with at least a 90-110 flex rating.  If the shell size fits your foot correctly, hot spots and pressure points can be removed by the shop. Get checked for cants, heel ramping, and other alignment problems.

  You are about 5" taller and 50 lbs heavier than I am. My foot is a wide toe box and a narrow heel, I use a Salomon, pro model and teach in them about 8 hours a day.  I had them modified by an instructor for the boot fitting college, this pair I can take off and my feet will still say i can go dancing.

  The best ski shops will be able to advise you about what you need.  Allow at least 4 hours in the boot in the shop when trying them on.  September is one of the best months for boot shopping, also March, prices are good, but selection is limited.