Getting the Perfect Fit

5STEPS

TOTHEPERFECTFIT

Choosing a ski boot might seem a daunting task but we take any worries away and make it simple. All our staff are SUREfit trained and employ the same clear, step-by-step process. Here’s what to expect when you come for a boot fitting.

3. TRYING ON

The next step is to try on the complete boot. Brand new ski boots feel tight and short at first, which is normal. The inner boot is designed to fit in length and volume, initially with no excess space. It’s the customisation and with use, that the foams form to the shape of the foot. Doing up the boots correctly, leg clips first, brings the heel back into position and gives the toes more room. The boot is left on for 10-15 minutes in a standing position, mimicking a relaxed ski stance. It shouldn’t be necessary to try on more than two or three models. At this point it is crucial to remember that as the foam of the liner packs down, the ski boot’s internal volume can increase by about 15%, so a snug fit at the beginning is very important.

1. ANALYSIS

We want to know about previous experiences with ski boots, both good and bad, and to get an overview of skiing experience and aspirations. This is done alongside an assessment of the size, shape and biomechanics of the foot and lower leg. Using various techniques and equipment, we’ll find out anything that affects how a boot fits and make a recommendation for the best options, including the correct footbed solution.

2. SHELL CHECK

Ski boots comprise two basic components. A softer inner boot, for comfort and control; and a harder shell, for transmission, performance and fit. The shell governs how a boot fits, so a shell check is needed with every boot. The foot is placed into just the shell (no inner boot inside) and the amount of space is assessed in five crucial areas – length, ankle width, forefoot width, instep height and calf. This ensures the correct size, shape and volume. The shell check will clearly indicate the most suitable models.

4. STABILISING

To really make boots perform and be comfortable, you have to ensure your feet are stable while skiing. Boot-fitting problems generally stem from the foot itself, not the boot. Footbeds eliminate a lot of problems, dramatically improving the fit and skiing performance by supporting the foot structure. This helps muscles relax and stops them tiring so quickly, meaning there’s less movement and rubbing caused by collapsing of the foot. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of well-made custom footbeds to successful ski boot fitting.

WE FIT WE CUSTOMISE YOU SKI IN COMFORT

5. CUSTOMISATION

Standard ski boots should fit well out of the box, but it is very simple to improve on this as they are designed to be adapted. For many models this is a part of the fitting process and, in most cases, will involve the inner being heated and custom moulded to the foot. With certain models the plastic shell can also be custom moulded. As specialists in boot fitting we are also able to make bespoke changes to boots. This can take many forms, including modifications to the shell or liner via heating and mechanically stretching materials, carefully shaving plastics and foams, or altering angles and stance. The end result is increased comfort and better performance.

HOW SHOULD A NEW SKI BOOT FEEL?

Ski boots don’t fit like normal footwear and as such it’s important to understand how they should feel to make sure you maximise the comfort, fit and performance. Here are our top tips for trying on new ski boots.

• At first ski boots may feel tight and a bit short... don’t panic, this is

normal. Unlike normal footwear, the inner boot is designed to fit precisely in length and volume, initially with no excess space. Much snugger than your shoes.

• Fasten the buckles round the leg first, this will pull the foot back into

the rear of the boot. A few ankle-flexes will push the heel further into the heel pocket, producing more toe room. It will feel shorter than shoes, as though your toes are just touching the end, but not being pushed. • Don’t over-tighten the buckles. This is a common error that’s pretty much guaranteed to cause foot pain. Clips are there to close the boot, not to hold your foot still. The shape, size and volume of the boot alone should be enough to snugly hold the foot. Tighten the clips and you will only create pressure points and discomfort. • While trying-on, keep the boots on for at least 15 minutes. During this time your body heat will soften and compress the inner boot foam, creating more volume around your foot. You’ll be aware of your toes just touching the end of the boot, and that it is a snug fit. As if someone is holding your feet firmly with both hands, think of a handshake. • There should be little or no movement at the heel and ankle when replicating skiing movements such as rolling from side-to-side and flexing forwards. If you try to force the heel up, you will be able to, this is not a movement made in normal skiing. • With use, the inner boot will increase in volume by about 15%, so don’t be scared of the initial close fit. It will relax over the first few days skiing. Go with a boot that is slightly tighter than you expected. • If you have issues with the fit, or something just doesn’t feel right, try a

different boot in the same size, don’t just go up a size.

• Footbeds, footbeds footbeds... Well-made custom-moulded footbeds will support and stabilise your feet in the correct alignment, dramatically improving fit and skiing performance.