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BASICS: Picking A Boot Fitter- How To Find A GOOD Boot Fitter That Works For You

Writer's picture: Constance TraynorConstance Traynor

Updated: Jan 12

Ahhh ski boots, we both love and hate the. They allow us to experience complete control with our skis yet the wrong pair is nothing but pain (who are we kidding even the best pair can hurt). Besides being most likely your most expensive pair of shoes you’ll own they are a vital sense of equipment. Finding the right boot is like that magical moment of finding your wand in Harry Potter. Your skiing improves, you’re more comfortable and most importantly you’re able to experience the proper technique without hassle.


Where do you start in finding a good boot? Is it the sale online, that big box store that you love, or do you search out a boot fitter? When you think of a ski boot fitter the first question is naturally does this cost more? Drumroll please… no it can actually save you money in the long run. Boot fitters do one thing and one thing only ski boots. They know boots better than anyone. Boot fitters are the only ones that are qualified to make modifications to your boot. From punch-outs to custom sole inserts think of your boots like bindings, you want to make sure they are all dialed in.



There are several female boot fitters in the United States, think of them as magically unicorns. If you are ever fortunate enough to have a female boot fitter consider yourself lucky.


One of the biggest perks to a boot fitter vs online / big store is that they stand by their product proudly. A good boot fitter will offer free adjustments for the life of the boot. They will also do a switch out for a new pair if the boot you’re in doesn’t work out.



Need a pair of ski boots? Let’s go into the steps to make sure you have what you need when you walk into that sausage fest of a boot shop.



 



Boot Fitting 101



1. Research



Go ahead and research online local boot shops. You may need to make a trek to find a good one, we promise this is worth it! Read the reviews, make sure that they are written from skiers. You want people who are on their boots frequently and really are using them vs once a year weekenders.




2.Call Ahead / Book Your Apt Online



Most ski shops are busy during winter ( sounds like a no brainer ) Unless you visit a shop in October they are going to be swamped. Give them a call and check their websites to see what each shop has as far as request for making apts.



3.The Right Ski Socks



  Remember to bring a pair of thin ski socks. If a boot fitter recommends a thick sock, RUN! Need a sock recommendation?

Check out our choices in the equipment section here:




4.Be Honest With Thy Self



Be honest about the type of skiing/ your skiing ability. Walking into a shop and overselling or underselling your abilities are only going to put you in a piece of equipment that’s not going to service you. Plus waste a ton of money. If you plan on improving your level tell them. If you prefer leisure groomers speak up. If you like to go only in resort you probably do not need a pair of boots with walk mode, etc.

They are not there to judge your skiing. Boot fitters can only help you if you help them by being clear in what your goals/skiing habits look like.




5.Ask About Flex, Mondo Point, Waist



Knowing your measurements it’s kind of like knowing your bra size. It’s unique to you and unless there are any major chances it’s going to be consistent. Learn your sizes. If you are sizing up or down you may need to have your bindings remounted.

Let them know about any spots that have discomfort in the boot. There are rarely times where someone puts on a pair of boots and they are ready to rock. Heel lift? Let them know. Odd spot that hurts when you flex? Tell them. If it’s bad in the shop it will be 100% worse on the mountain when it’s cold and the boots are more stiff.


6.Ask Them Questions



 A good fitter is going to answer all of your questions big and small. Remember we all learn, so asking your questions is the best way to get those answers and develop relationships. Whether you’re unsure about the proper way to buckle. Or maybe you’re unsure about storing your skills boots. They will direct you for your boot / manufactures suggestions.



We know walking into a shop with a bunch of dudes may be a bit intimidating ( we have all been there! ) remember they like to ski just like you do. They usually have a few good stories so ask them about their experiences. Don’t forget the gnarlier the shop the more likely it’s pretty legit!

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