If you want to ski on groomed slopes and in powder snow without having to worry about your feet, choosing the right boots is key. Your boots form an inseparable duo with your skis, they need to be comfortable and give you enough support. Here are our tips to help you choose the best option for you.

MEN'S AND WOMEN'S BOOTS

Men's and women's ski boots are ergonomically adapted to the differences in body shape, especially the calf. Women's calves are generally lower than those of men.

The shank (the upper part of the boot) of a women's ski boot is usually lower and flares out at the top, with a specific shape at the back so that the boot adapts to the shape of the calf.

Women are usually more sensitive to cold, and are therefore more prone to circulation and venous return problems, which is why women's ski boots are warmer.

FLEXION

Another important factor to consider when choosing ski boots is the flex or stiffness of the boot. The flex index is measured on a scale of 60 to 150. The choice of flex in a ski boot is related to the skier's ability and fitness. The higher the skier's level, the stiffer the boot needs to be in order to transmit power more efficiently from the legs to the skis. Skiers with a larger physique will also need a stiffer flex.

Beginner level: flexion index between 60 and 90 for men and between 60 and 70 for women.

Intermediate level: flexion between 90 and 110 for men and between 70 and 90 for women.

Advanced level: flexion index of 110 or more for men and 90 or more for women.

High level competitors: the stiffer boots are reserved for them and have a flex between 140 and 150. 
The flex index does not follow an official standard, so there may be differences in the stiffness of different brands.

You can adjust the stiffness of your ski boots by loosening the top strap if you want them to be more flexible.

LENGTH

Ski boot sizing follows the Mondo Point sizing model, which is measured in centimetres and corresponds exactly to the longest part of your foot. Unlike normal shoes, ski boots have to fit exactly to the skier's foot - it is estimated that 75% of skiers choose boots that are two sizes too big!

How do you have to measure your foot to know your mondo size? It's very easy:

Place a piece of paper against the wall.

Put your foot on the paper with your heel against the wall.

Bend your knee slightly and draw the outline of the front of your foot.

Do the same with the other foot.

Choose the longest size, that's your mondo size.

Ski boots are usually available in half sizes. If your foot measurement is between two sizes, take into account the compression of the boot and choose the boot that is half a size smaller.

[half_post]

WIDTH

The width of a ski boot, often referred to as the last (the front third of the foot is measured), is the widest part of the foot. The measurement is easy to find, just draw the outline of your foot.

You can choose the width/shape of your ski boots according to the level of precision you need for skiing:

92 mm: very narrow. Only for those who compete.

96-98 mm: narrow. For a narrow foot or for a skier looking for precision rather than comfort.

100 mm: medium. Fits most skiers.

102 mm: for wide feet.

104 mm: for very wide feet.

Choosing a boot that is the right width for you not only gives you comfort, but also control over your skis. If precision is important to you, choose narrower ski boots. Ski boots that are too wide will not hold your foot well and will make it more difficult to control your skis.

DEFINE YOUR SKIING STYLE

Choosing a boot that fits your foot (male/female, size and width) is the first essential step in finding the ideal pair of ski boots. You will also need to choose a range of boots to suit the type of skiing you do, as the boot requirements are not the same for people with different levels of skiing or for skiing different terrain.

LEISURE SKIING ON GROOMED SLOPES

Ski boot models for piste skiing are flexible (with a flex of less than 90), comfortable and easy to use (they are easy to put on, lightweight and sometimes have a walking mode).

These boots are suitable if you are a beginner or if you ski only occasionally.
PERFORMANCE AND COMPETITION SKIING ON GROOMED SLOPES

If you ski piste at a high level, you should opt for a stiffer range of boots (flex between 90 and 130 for men and between 70 and 110 for women). These boots will give you more control thanks to a tighter fit and a high shank that slopes towards the toes.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)