Shoes or Boots for Ski Resort

quazzy

Hi Folks,

I'm going to Les Deux Alps in Feb ( first ski trip ) and I just wanna pick your brains about footware.

For plodding about the resort and going to and from the slopes I don't think my collection of runners will keep my feet warm or dry so I probably need some form of waterproof shoes or boots.

I got some Burton vouchers for crimbo and noticed they sell CAT boots. Would these suffice or should I look elsewhere?

I think this is them
http://www.onlineshoes.com/productpage.asp?gen=m&pcid=16509

I was in 53 North and saw some nice Merrells but since I have vouchers for Burton I was considering the CAT boots.


Hope you can help,

Don1

From (limited) personal experience I go with runners and warm socks most of the time, as the rubber soles offer good grip over boots on ice.
If it's slushy and wet I stick on the CAT boots then alright.

enda1

Well I've only ever worn ski boots going to and from slopes. And if its your first time I'd advise not wearing shoes as you will have to carry them on your back while skiing and you will fall a lot so it would be a pain in the back!

I always wear CATs in the resorts though, but each to his own.

Shelllz

Hi Quazzy,
If I were you i'd get some sort of waterproof boots to wear to and from the slopes and they're also handy to change into at lunch time! The last time i went skiing you could rent a locker up the top of the mountain to store your shoes/boots while you're skiing so I wouldnt worry about having to ski with them on your back! Although i can't be sure it'll be the same for where you're going but u can check it out! Runners let the water in and your feet will be freezing!

quazzy

Thanks for the replies.

@enda1: I dont have my own ski boots so I will be renting them, so I will need something to get me to and from the slopes.

Locker @ the slopes is probably the best option.

@Shelllz: I think I agree with you on the runner option.

I spoke to a few heads just now and they said CAT boots would be grand to get you from A to B.

Cheers,

5starpool

As said above, unless it is wet and slushy, runners are perfectly fine and offer better grip generally than a lot of boots. I usually bring a pair of each anyhow for a bit of variety, and you will never get refused at a bar in resort for having runners on (unlike some places here).

About half the resorts I have been at I have had somewhere to store my skis and boots at the lifts, the others I have had to store them where I was staying and tbh it was a right pain. Also, I think having a pair of light runners in a backpack with some water etc is certainly not a chore, even for a beginner.

Noelie

Go with Runners and carry your boots. You'll be given your boots on the first day and will keep them for the week, you've given me the impression that you think you give them back every day.

The boots are very uncomfortable to walk in, stairs are a nightmare in them so bring runners with you and put them in a backpack.

Make sure you buy some of the ski socks, they will keep your feet/legs warm and i was told they help stop blisters, but not sure how true that is.

Enjoy it.

Static M.e.

I just bring a pair of runners with me and leave them at the locker room, the less I carry the better.

I love the feeling of taking off my boots and putting on my runners after a long day on the slopes! its so comfy!

Don1

Tis a lovely feeling alright. I laugh my ass off at the steam coming off your feet if you take em off outdoors!

foamcutter

The cat boots might be heavy and awkward to pack. 53 degrees might have a lightweight ankle boot thats a bit lighter and waterproof. If you already have the trainers they should be OK, no point buying stuff unless you can wear them at other times through the year.

I love the feeling of taking off my boots and putting on my runners after a long day on the slopes! its so comfy!

Ditto and they feel so light as if you have had lead boots on.

Enjoy.............

bbbbb

What ever you wear when you take off the ski boots should be comfy, warm (socks will do), have some grip, and keep your feet dry if it's slushy or wet.
I wouldn't buy new CAT boots for this, you won't have then broken in before the trip.
Also, when you hire boots, your footwear is left (unprotected) in the store room in the shop with 100's of other shoes. A new pair of nice boots will be a target (my brother had a pair of dr. martens shoes stolen years back).

cson

If you play golf... bring your shoes. If you've an anyways decent pair, they'll be waterproof and offer exceptional grip.

quazzy

Noelie wrote: »

Go with Runners and carry your boots. You'll be given your boots on the first day and will keep them for the week, you've given me the impression that you think you give them back every day.

Make sure you buy some of the ski socks, they will keep your feet/legs warm and i was told they help stop blisters, but not sure how true that is.

Enjoy it.

Hey Noelie,

I was under the impression that you leave your (hired) skis and ski boots at the slopes and collect them every morning.

Anyhoo, I'm sorted for ski socks so maybe my runner will suffice. Thanks for all the info folks.

@cson - I dont play golf
@bbbbbb - thanks for the warning

Might buy the boots as well because
1) I dont have a pair of boots
2) I have vouchers for the shoip that sells them
3) and I'll get a wear outta them either way

Thanks to all who posted.

Wisesmurf

Last time I went I used astro turf runners. Theyre waterproof and have excellent grip. As they are made for soccer theyre generally very light too.

ShayK1

what a great idea!!! I'm wearing a pair right now and the thought never even crossed my mind.