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Your first pair of ski boots can feel strange, especially when you're not sure what a brand-new pair feels like. We asked Steve, our Ski Equipment Buyer, to share what to expect and how to make sure your boots feel right.
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Custom-moulded footbeds add support, improve alignment, and can transform comfort.
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Don’t panic if you are feeling a pressure point. If you have custom moulded footbeds and everything else on the boot feels good, a small modification to the liner or plastic shell should fix the problem. The plastic of the boot can be heated and stretched manually with tools to change the boot shape; the internal plastics can be lightly ground away for more space in specific areas, and the liners can be compressed. There are lots of options to improve the comfort and precision.
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Should ski boots hurt at first?
They shouldn’t be painful, but new boots will feel tight and close-fitting until the liner beds in.
How much toe room should ski boots have?
Your toes should just touch the front when standing upright, but pull back slightly when you flex forward.
Do ski boots get more comfortable?
Yes. Liners soften and pack out after a few days on snow, creating about 15% more space.
How long should you wear ski boots before skiing in them?
After buying your new boots, wear them as much as possible, either skiing at indoor snow centres or dry slopes, or at home whilst standing up. The more you wear them, the more the liner will soften and mould to your feet.
Should the liners or shell always be custom moulded?
Many boots have shells and liners that can be heated gently to achieve some moulding to your feet. This is not always necessary, and it may not be beneficial to do if the shape already feels good. Heating the shell or liner to mould it will only add more space, and if it doesn’t feel like it is needed, then it shouldn’t be done – just because you can do something doesn’t mean that you should.
Still unsure? Book a ski boot fitting appointment in-store. The right fit will keep you skiing longer, safer, and with more control.
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