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How to choose the right alpine ski boots?
6 minutes
When it comes time to equip yourself for alpine skiing, choosing alpine skis is very important, but choosing boots is just as important. Complete your equipment with a new pair of boots that will accompany you on all your adventures on the slopes.
Discover the important points to consider when choosing your alpine ski boots.
What is your skiing level?
- Beginner: Get flexible, forgiving, and comfortable boots.
- Intermediate: Opt for boots that are more rigid than beginner boots. They offer a balance between comfort and performance.
- Advanced: Prioritize rigid boots that offer responsiveness and enhanced performance during transitions between high-speed turns.
How to choose the size?
The size of ski boots is expressed in Mondopoint, which is a unit of measurement representing the length of the feet in centimeters. For example, a Mondopoint size of 26.5 represents a foot length of 26.5 cm. This measurement is then associated with a size of alpine ski boots.
To know your size, you must therefore measure the length of your feet. Once the measurement is taken, you can refer to the size charts of the different brands to find your size.
How to choose the right width?
In addition to the size, it's important to consider the width of the boots (last). Some boots are designed for wide feet and others for narrow feet. It is important to make the right choice to prevent your feet from being too compressed or from moving from side to side inside the boot.
For narrow feet, choose a boot with a width of less than 100 mm. While for wide feet, opt for a width of more than 100 mm.
If you are an expert skier, choose a narrow width for a more fitted boot for enhanced performance. For beginners, opt for wider boots for better comfort.
When trying on your ski boots, remember to have a pair of ski socks on hand to make the best possible choice. This allows you to avoid unpleasant surprises once on the mountain when it comes time to put on your boots for the first time.
How to choose the flexibility index?
The flex index (flex) corresponds to the rigidity of your boot. It is determined according to your skiing level, your weight, and your alpine skiing practice. Flex also varies according to body morphology, so it is different for men and women.
- Beginner: opt for a flexible flex index for a comfortable and easy-to-ski boot. For women, choose a flex between 60 and 80, then for men a flex of 70 to 90.
- Intermediate: for experienced skiers, opt for a stiffer flex for versatile boots on different terrains. A flex between 90 and 100 is appropriate for women and for men a flex between 90 and 110.
- Expert: favor a stiff flex for more control and precision at high speed on difficult terrains. Gentlemen, choose boots with a flex of over 110, ladies, opt for boots with a flex of over 100.
How to choose the flexibility index?
The flex index corresponds to the stiffness of your boot. It is determined according to your skiing level, your weight, and your alpine skiing practice. The flex also varies according to body morphology, so it is different for men and women.
- Beginner: opt for a soft flex index for a comfortable and easy-to-ski boot. For women, choose a flex between 60 and 80, then for men a flex of 70 to 90.
- Intermediate: for experienced skiers, opt for a stiffer flex for versatile boots on different terrains. A flex between 90 and 100 is appropriate for women and for men a flex between 90 to 110.
- Expert: favor a stiff flex for more control and precision at high speeds on difficult terrains. Gentlemen, choose boots with a flex of over 110, ladies, opt for boots with a flex of over 100.
Shop our alpine ski boots.
Your alpine ski equipment is now complete? You're ready to start your alpine skiing adventures! If you have any doubts about the best equipment for you, come and meet our in-store advisors, they can guide you in your choice.
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