Frequently Asked Questions

How should a ski boot fit?    

A boot should feel comfortable and snug, when you flex your knees forward, your heel should stay in the heel pocket. It's OK if you feel the front of the boot, as long as your toes pull away a bit from the front when the boot is buckled and your knees are flexed. Liners will compress and stretch over time. The boot should hold the foot without setting the buckles too tight, the fit should be from the boot itself, not the buckles.

What causes foot cramping? 

Cramping in the foot is a common problem. Cramping occurs when the foot is unstable and under stress. Your muscles may be working harder than they should be in order to edge effectively. Fatigue from the strain will cause the foot to ache.

Why do my feet get cold?

Usually feet get cold when blood flow is restricted. Improperly fitting boots put uneven pressure on the foot, limiting blood flow. Proper support is critical. In the cold, the veins in our extremities contract, restricting blood flow.

Should I wear thin or thick socks?   

Thin socks should always be worn in ski boots. Not only do they improve circulation there is less material between you and the boot. This means by wearing a thin sock in your ski boot you will have more feeling between you and the boot. Socks that are to thick or two pairs of socks will make you feet cold.

Is there a difference between mens and women's ski boots?

Women's feet are very different from men's feet. A woman's foot is usually smaller in the ankle, wider in the forefoot and a higher instep. A women's calf muscle is longer than men's, this may cause uncomfortable pressure to the back of the leg, and negatively change the balance of the skier. Women's boots are made to help accommodate these common differences.

What are custom foot beds?     

Custom foot beds are molded to your feet and support the foot in a neutral position. They reduce the foot's natural tendency to spread out and to roll inside the boot. By supporting the foot, the foot will not work so hard to stay stable, this will help relieve cramping and muscle fatigue. The goal is to make your feet more comfortable and to provide a more precise transfer of energy through the boot into the ski. Custom foot beds also enhance blood flow supporting the foot.

Why is balance important?

Good balance allows the skier to position their weight easily and effectively to the changing conditions. Fore and Aft balance is most important when entering and leaving a turn. If you are finding your self in the backseat often, or unable to make quick short radius turns, there may be a balance problem.

What is canting and can I benefit from it?

Canting is used to achieve sound knee mass location and flat riding skis (or slightly inside edged) is ideal. If you turn one way better than the other, if you have difficulty controlling one ski, you are continually crossing or catching edges, you may have a canting problem. For most people canting will make turning smoother and more effective.