Free delivery on orders over £80How Long Do Ski Boots Last?
How long do ski boots last? It's one of the most common questions we're asked. Many things affect the lifespan of your ski boots. But there are several ways to help them stand the test of time.
The durability of ski boots depends on a few factors. These include the quality of the materials, frequency of use, maintenance and fit. Usually, the inner liner (the soft part that connects the hard shell to your foot) is the first part to wear out. Once this has worn out, it's time to think about new boots. On average, ski boots last about 90-120 days skiing, which is about a season. But, taking care of them can make them last longer
Here's how to check if your ski boots are still good to go
The three essential parts of the ski boot are the liner, the shell, and the insole:
How to check the ski boot liner
First things first, let's talk about the liner. The liner is the soft part of the boot. It holds the foot inside the hard plastic outer. It makes the connection between the foot and shell comfortable.
Start by taking it out of the shell and giving it a once-over. Look for any signs of wear or rubbing, especially around moving parts like hinges or rivets. If you spot any trouble spots, a little gaffer tape can help to prevent damage from getting worse. If it's already seen better days, think about replacing it. Intuition and Sidas offer options to make your boots feel brand new
Remember, liners aren't designed to last a lifetime. Over time, they compress, wear down, and the glue holding them together can break down. It's important to maintain them. Avoid leaving them damp for too long—use a boot dryer to keep them fresh. Be cautious not to overheat them, as excessive heat can speed up the degradation process. Before putting your favourite boots on them, make sure to check the heat of the hotel or chalet dryers. Hold your hand over the dryer for a moment to feel if it's warm, which is fine, but avoid it if it's too hot.
How to check the ski boot shell
Next up, we have the shell – the hard plastic part of your boot that's most likely to stand the test of time. But it isn't immune to damage or wear and tear. Make sure to inspect the heel and toe parts of your boot. If they are worn out, they may not fit properly in the binding. This can lead to unwanted movement and even pre-release while making exciting turns. While new pieces are an option, older boots may not have spare parts easily available.
Make sure you check the clips and teeth on your shell. Bent parts can stop it from closing correctly. Take a look at the small adjustment threads. If they're stuck, try using WD-40.
Also, are there any tight spots? Have you had foot injuries, undergone surgery, or noticed changes in the shape of your feet? These are all factors that can affect how well your boots fit. In most cases, we can stretch or grind the boots to make the shape more accommodating for a better fit. It's a good idea to try them on well in advance of your skiing trip. If the fit isn't right, go to a nearby Ellis Brigham store and talk to one of our trained boot fitters. They can offer advice on how to improve the fit of your current boots.
How to check your insoles
Last but not least, let's talk insoles. These often-overlooked heroes go beneath your feet, providing essential support. Take a look to make sure there are no cracks underneath the ball of your foot. Over time, the plastic-like materials used to make most ski boot insoles can crack. When you see this happening, it's a clear sign that it's time for a new set.
If you have experienced significant changes or damage to your feet, consider getting new custom insoles. There may be a chance that your custom insoles aren't quite right anymore.
So, there you have it, a quick and easy guide to ensure your ski boots are still ready to tackle the slopes with you. To keep your boots in good shape and your feet comfortable, you should do regular maintenance. If they start to wear out, replace them. So, keep skiing and enjoy every moment on the snow!
