Petar_DimanovI'm in a need of new ski boots so I went to a boot fitter to take measurements of my feet so I could get an idea of what I should be looking for. After the guys measured my feet I asked them for some tips and mainly what they would advice me to look for and they gave me absolutely no feedback on what boots I should check besides suggesting me only the boots they got in their shop which were all for trekking but I need some boots mainly for freestyle so I want them to be lightweight and to have some shock absorbers.
So are there any people with experience regarding ski boots who can give me some tips on what I should try to look for based on the measurements I got because I want some unbiased opinions? They will be much appreciated.
The measurements I got were:
Length: 271 (left), 276 (loaded left) / 268 (right), 276 (loaded right)
Width: 102 (left) / 100 (right)
Instep: 287 (left) / 282 (right)
Arch: 275 (left) / 270 (right)
1. Don't ask people what works for them. They don't have your feet, so what they like is completely irrelevant. Get a boot that works for you.
2. Buy what fits and flexes appropriately. When you do this, it doesn't matter if you buy a race boot or freestyle boot. Nicky Keefer is my favorite example of this- he skis a Redster World Cup 130 with a foam injection liner. This does not mean you should buy a race boot, but instead focus on what fits and works for you and your feet & legs. You will often be surprised.
3. Get custom footbeds. Your foot elongates half to 3/4 of a size when weighted. This tells me your feet a flexible nightmares that need stabilization. Without a good footbed, your foot will twist and slide all over the place. This is just as important as getting the right boot. Do not skip this step.
4. Don't focus on brands- focus on shops. Find the shop in your area that specializes in boot fitting. If there isn't a shop in your area, drive to one. If you can't drive to one, then wait until you can go to the mountain where you ski and see the local shop in that area. Always call the shop first and make an appointment. Budget 1-1.5 hours