What to Expect from a Ski Boot Fitting

Toby, Covent Garden: I usually recommend people book as early as possible in the season, or at least 2-3 weeks before their trip. This will maximise their chances of getting the right boots on the first visit, with plenty of time to wear them before skiing. Sometimes we need to order a specific boot or perform more complex moulding that requires a second visit, so it's worth allowing time for this.

Emily, Tamworth: We look at foot measurements and profile. We will select 2-3 boots to try and work on a custom insole and heat moulding, plus shell work if needed.

Alex, Milton Keynes: 

• Initial assessment: This is where we measure and analyse the feet and lower leg to determine what size and shape of boot we are going to look for, and also identify any problem areas. 

• Trying on boots: Here, the boot fitter will select 2-3 different ski boots that fit the criteria. This is the part that can take a bit of time because it is best to keep your feet in the boots for 5-10 minutes as they can change quite dramatically from when you first put them on to when they have warmed up and are starting to mould to the shape of your foot and lower leg.  

• Footbeds: Once the best-fitting boot has been selected, we look at getting custom moulded insoles fitted, as these will enhance a well-fitting boot to the next level of comfort and performance, while also negating some of the common problems found in ski boots.  

• Heat moulding: Here is where we will heat mould the liners and the shells of the boots if required. This will speed up the breaking-in period of the liners and ease any tight hot spots around the foot. Shell moulding will adapt the shape of the outer shell to your foot, although manual stretches can have a better effect. We do not heat mould every boot, as there are occasions where moulding the liners and shells will put unnecessary space in a boot.  

• Modification and further customisation: This part of a fit will usually happen after the boots have been skied in and pressure points or looser spots have been identified. This is where we can either stretch boots by heating them and pressing on the inside to gain more space. 

Toby, Covent Garden: The biggest difference is the sizing & how accurate they are for your foot shape. Rental boots tend to be a medium or wide fit & will usually be handed out based on shoe size, which is almost always a size too big. This extra space means the boots just won't hold your feet properly, so there will be movement & pressure points in all the wrong places. A properly fitted boot will match the foot shape closely, keeping the feet in the correct position & spreading pressure evenly around the feet & legs. A retail boot will also have a much more comfortable liner & the option for us to fully customise the whole boot to ensure the fit is spot on.