A good skier can get away with using just about any pair of skis, but a good skier can’t use just any boots. If there’s any item of ski gear you decide to spend money on, it should be your boots. An ill-fitting pair won’t just leave you with screaming feet and blisters—they’ll also make it harder for you to drive your skis the way you’d like. Sitting down with a good boot fitter might be one of the best things you can do for your skiing. Here’s what you need to know to pick out the right ski boots for you. 

Ask Yourself These Questions

Before you start looking for ski boots, think about how you plan to use them.

What type of skier are you?

It plays a big role in determining how stiff your boots should be. As a general rule, the stronger the skier, the stiffer the boot. Beginners won’t put as much force into their boots compared to more advanced skiers. Racers might also look for a narrower boot with a taller cuff for more control, while a more casual skier can use something roomier and more comfortable.

Doing any backcountry touring or telemark skiing?

If so, alpine boots probably aren’t the best choice for you. They’re too stiff and won’t be comfortable for walking or touring. 

Do you need men’s or women’s boots?

The boots are often quite different. One big difference is in the calf: Men’s calf muscles typically sit higher up the leg than women’s, and so men’s and women’s boots have cuffs in slightly different positions.

Size and Fit

As if footwear sizing couldn’t get any more complicated, ski boots use their own sizing standard called mondopoint sizing. Conversions vary a bit from brand to brand, so consult the sizing chart for the manufacturer you’re considering to get an idea of what size you need. Also keep in mind that mondopoint sizes can be expressed in millimeters (like 270) or centimeters (like 27.0). But don’t buy boots just based on a sizing chart: Always try pairs on, ideally with a boot fitter, to make sure they fit just right. Below are a few other sizing and fit factors to consider.

Last Width

The width of a ski boot is referred to as its “last” and it’s measured across the widest part of your foot (at the ball of your foot). Different boots and manufacturers use different lasts, and you can almost always find that number listed in millimeters. 

When shopping, you’ll want to take into account both the shape of your foot and the type of skiing you do. People with narrow feet will want a smaller lasted boot, somewhere around 97 mm. Racers generally opt for boots with extremely narrow lasts (in the ballpark of 92 mm), which gives them greater control over the boot, especially side to side. For most skiers, though, a comfortable boot will have a last around 100 mm, while skiers with wide feet should look to 102 mm and up. 

Volume

Boots will also come in different volumes, typically described as “low” and “mid.” Have a high arch or thick feet? You’ll likely want a mid-volume boot. On the other hand, flat-footed skiers might prefer low volume boots, which will more closely match the shape of their feet.

When you’re trying boots on, consider the insoles and socks you'll typically wear and expect a fresh-out-of-the-box boot to feel a little cramped—the liner will mold to your foot with time. 

Flex

This is often the first big number that stands out to people looking for ski boots. Boot manufacturers use a flex index to grade boots on how stiff vs. flexible they are—the higher the number, the stiffer the boot. And the more stiff and rigid your boot is, the easier it will be to steer your skis. The general rule is to choose boot flex based on your skill level as a skier.

Because women, on average, have less body mass than men, they can use a slightly less-stiff boot at each skill level. That said, always consider your own weight when deciding on the amount of flex you want, and remember that heavier people will need stiffer boots.

Other Features

The most important factor in shopping for ski boots is how they fit your feet, period. But fit aside, boots also come with other bells and whistles that you might want to look for once the hard part is done.

Walk Mode

Alpine boots aren’t designed for touring, but that doesn’t mean you won’t need to pop out of our skis and walk to the bathroom or the lunch counter from time to time. No matter where you’re headed, a “walk mode” in your ski boots can make these jaunts much easier and more comfortable. The walk mode is usually engaged with a switch near the back that disconnects the lower shell of the boot from the upper shell. It’s not typically enough for ski touring or walking long distances, but it could be a nice perk if you spend a lot of time off your skis. 

In addition, some boots feature a rocker sole, and the curved shape makes walking a little bit easier. Just make sure you double check that the boot is compatible with whatever binding you have. 

Buckles

The number of buckles on a ski boot is a point of transition for alpine skiers, and the general trend has been toward fewer buckles, which makes boots lighter and more comfortable. On the other hand, more buckles typically equals more stiffness, though new materials have made for some pretty stiff boots with fewer buckles. 

Regardless of the number of buckles, it’s also important to inspect how they are designed: Some designs are better than others at allowing for smaller, fine-tuned adjustments to tightness. That adjustability is especially critical on boots with fewer buckles overall. 

Finally, most ski boots feature a hook-and-loop strap at the very top. While the buckles do most of the work, the strap allows you to customize the fit and tightness of your boots a little more.

Thermo-moldable Liners

The liner is the soft “slipper” that sits between your foot and the hard plastic shell of the boot, and it goes a long way toward creating a comfortable feel. Almost all liners will “pack out” as you ride in them—decreasing in volume and softening up. But many are also designed to be thermo-moldable, which means they can be heated by a professional and molded to match the exact shape of your foot. This is one of the biggest benefits of seeing a bootfitter. 

Liners also do most of the work in keeping your feet warm: A thicker liner creates a warmer boot. In addition, almost all liners can be swapped out for aftermarket options, so you can customize your boots with a liner that best works for you. 

All articles are for general informational purposes.  Each individual’s needs, preferences, goals and abilities may vary.  Be sure to obtain all appropriate training, expert supervision and/or medical advice before engaging in strenuous or potentially hazardous activity.