It’s a dilemma that many of us face early on into our ski careers. Should we buy our ski boots or rent? Initially the decision probably revolves around how much skiing you have done. In simplistic terms, if you have skied one, two or three weeks you would be typically be considered a beginner (on the progression to an early intermediate), and four weeks or more an intermediate or above skier.

Beginners

If you’re are a beginner we suggest it is probably best in most cases that you hold off buying and therefore rent to see if you like the sport (if its your first time), and just as importantly, get an understanding of what should and does feel right first. Also, the boot you ski with initially will be more forgiving (more flex and less stiff), which is important, but will need to change quickly as you progress (the better you become the stiffer the boot becomes). This said, if money is no object then some might ask why wouldn’t you (noting the point that they will need replacing quickly as your ability progresses) as it avoids have to put your feet into someone else boot!

Intermediate or Advanced

Setting aside beginners, there is nothing like a good fitting boot to not only heighten your comfort levels, but also revolutionise your skiing. Here at Chalet Ski Holidays we are of the view it is one of the most important purchases to make and we think the number one priority. I’m sure most reading this has had the joy (or otherwise) of ill-fitting rental boats. Notwithstanding the smell of many pairs of feet that have gone before you, they will be loose in some parts and probably tight in others.

Movement in boots leads to lack of precision and control whether slight or significant, and also some pretty sore feet in the worst case as it rubs. Also, too tight and blood flow is reduced and in the worst cases horrible pain results, a great Achilles heel of most skiers.

At this stage it seems a dead cert to buy, and if you have the cash and intend to go regularly, we generally recommend you do. Intermediates in particular should note that like skies, the boot matches your level so if you progress quickly they will need to replaced quickly too.Share

Don’t Rush Online To Buy

So, having now convinced yourself that buying is the way forward, I guess it is time to log on, choose the ones you like the look of (or match your budget) and order them online (who doesn’t buy online nowadays) – well please don’t! As we alluded earlier, this is the most important ski purchase you’ll make and they need to be expertly chosen based on your ability and feet characteristics. Therefore to slow down and one go online to choose carefully who you go to for a professional, comfort fit! For the avoidance of doubt, a £50 online saving on ski boots you like the look of may sound great with the laptop on your lap, but it isn’t so great when you find they don’t fit well on holiday and you’ve now saved £50 but have invested in a week of pain! 

Do however choose carefully the shop you select. There are many boot fitters / sellers out there but far fewer really good ones. Ask around to find the shop that is recommended extensively by experienced friends or acquaintances, ski forums, etc. Great fitters have skied and fitted ski boots for many years. If you arrive at the shop after being recommended it and are in any doubt (it is a people business and sometimes staff move on) – ask them what their experience is both fitting boots and skiing generally.

Ski Boot Fitting

Good fitters are in high demand so it is always best to make an appointment. Try to avoid a Saturday when it is really busy and leave lots time as it can take 4 or 5 hours to get it right. Try not to go with pre-conceived ideas on the boot you want to buy. Great ski boot technicians will choose the boot based on ability and foot shape. Some are good with narrow, others with wider feet. They are the experts so best to listen in most cases (if you’re not convinced by the fitter you’re in the wrong shop).

And if you are based in London, two organisations that are highly recommended by you our clients is Surefoot (SW6), who also have stores in several worldwide ski locations, and Profeet on the Fulham Road (also SW6).

Alternatively why not combine a trip to Chamonix  and get an appointment at Sanglard with one of the world’s most famous boot fitters – Jules. Not only can we recommend him based on our own personal experience (head and shoulders above most), there are some influential world leaders who wouldn’t disagree with us either too!