FUSS IN BOOTS
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HOW TO GET THE PERFECT SKI BOOT FIT By Melissa McGibbon
No doubt about it, ill-fitting ski boots are likely the reason many beginners give up trying to learn the sport. And any seasoned skier will tell you that having the right gear makes a world of difference in your skiing ability. While it’s easy to defer to the cushiest boots you fit into, they might actually hold you back. Most people buy ski boots based solely on the length of their foot, which is a mistake because there are many other factors that go into finding the best boots for your feet. Take into consideration the shape, length, and width of your foot, calf/ shin shape, and volume as well as your ability level, which will determine the flex (or stiffness) of the boot.
for everyone, they’re counting on consumers to get them further customized with options like shell heat molding. KNOW THYSELF Once you learn what your individual fit measurements are you’ll know what to look for when shopping for boots. Your bootfitter can recommend a pair of ski boots that match your biomechanics. Mondopoint: Most people use the Mondopoint sizing chart to convert your US shoe size to ski boot sizes; it’s basically the length of your foot in centimeters. For instance, a woman who wears a size 7.5 shoe will likely wear a size 23.5 or 24.5 using the Mondo chart. Shell Fit: A good way to determine if a boot is the correct size length-wise is to remove the liner and check the space between your heel and the back of the shell when your toes are grazing the front of the boot shell. There should be a roughly ½-inch gap between your heel and the shell.
To get a perfect fit, visit an expert bootfitter who understands how to measure your feet correctly. Find someone knowledgeable about anatomy and how the foot works in relation to skiing. If you go to someone for a boot fitting and they don’t ask you to show your knees and lower legs, turn around and walk away.
Boot Last: The width of your foot. Many people overlook the last when buying boots because they think it doesn’t matter, but it does. If you have a narrow foot and you’re in a medium or high-volume boot, your foot will slide around too much
One such local expert is Earl Middlemiss of The Sport Loft in Holladay. He and his son, Jeremy, have a combined 74 years of custom boot fitting experience. According to Earl, “The most important part is the hind part of your leg and foot, and if you don’t get that right the rest won’t work either. That’s where you get all the power, control, and steering.” They test every new boot from every manufacturer, every year to determine which boots ski the best.
Low Volume
KEY BOOT FIT FACTORS Footboard Ramp Angle: Controls the front and back hip placement and needs to be adjusted for each individual. 1.
Shaft Alignment: Enables the skier’s foot to be flat so the skier isn’t riding on the inside or outside edges. Works with the angle of the upper cuff to the curvature of the lower leg shaft for better comfort.
2. Forward Lean and Ramp Angle: Ensures proper stance and balance with the center of mass over the center of the ski.
Flex
Of course, the elements vary from skier-to-skier; that’s why it’s important to visit a boot fitting expert before you buy your next pair of boots. Since ski boot manufacturers can’t make bespoke boots 22«
Late Winter 2020
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