A guide to ski Boot Fitting

Fattes · 23-11-2009 1:21pm #1

Guys some of the boot fitting advice I have seen on here is hillarious so here is a rough guide to how it works and a few tips to look out for when having them done.

There are good bootfitters in Ireland

You need to be honest with yourself and the fitter.

Dont liste to bad advice there is lots of it when ti comes to boots.

Important factors

Last of the boot in realtion to your foot

What your experience and expectations are

What type of sking will you be doing

1. DON’T LISTEN TO YOUR FRIENDS

Boots not only have to match your ability, they must match with your foot and leg shape. That means your mates reccomendation could be the worst thing in your life and make you want to kill yourself rather than put them back on. Obviously living in Ireland getting a chance to try and buy is difficult so use a store with good boot fitters or with a satisfaction or money back garuntee

As a Salomon rep I always reccomend the following.

"Oh you are an advanced skier doing a bit of everything well what you want is somthing along the lines of the Impact 10 or equivelant. It may not be the right boot for you but the charateristics in terms of Flex and performance are what you will be looking for in what ever boot is a best for for you."

2. TAKE YOUR TIME—LOT’S OF IT

Buying ski boots is a time-consuming process that too many people rush through. Give yourself a good 2-3 hours minimum on the day you are going to buy them and bring a paper or somthing to read while you are going throught the process.When you have found a boot you and the boot fitter think is right spend 20 min just walking around in it and flexing it before any customisation or a decision to buy takes place.

3. Ini mini mine mo

Try different models and different sizes of the same model on your left and right feet. Keep the “winner” on and pit it against the next boot. Remember, though, your feet are probably not identical and may vary in size so when you find “winners,” try on both boots. Ask lots of questions and give the fitter plenty of information and feedback to work with.

4. SHOP WHEN NOBODY’S AROUND

For the best boot fit service, visit shops midweek or at off-hours. Less customers means more personal face on face time with your fitter. Feet can swell up to a half-size during skiing so size to fit them at their largest. For the best fit, shop in the afternoon or evening or walk around the for 20-20 minutes to make sure your feet are at their largest before you try.Ask lots of questions and give the fitter plenty of information and feedback to work with

5. TOO BIG IS A BIG PROBLEM

Many people buy or are fit too big. A good fitting boot feels tight out of the box and may remain very snug during the first few days of skiing. This is normal and the liner will pack down after a few days on the snow to get that perfect fit. This does not mean that you should not be able to feel your toes for the first few runs but there may be some slight pressure points on the boot.

To tight is better than to big and to have your feet swimming around as this will increase the chances of serious injuries especially breaks

6. SHELL FIT IS PARAMOUNT

It is realitivley easy to shim, trim or stretch boots but this type of shell work is best kept to a minimum unless the boot has a shell designed to be streched.
A good way to check the shell fit, remove the liner and put your foot in the shell. Slide your foot forward until your big toe touches the front. A finger to a finger-and-a-half of space between your heel and the shell will give you a good snug fit when the liner is reinserted, assuming no other parts of your foot are touching the shell. Any decent boot fitter should do this before anything else.
If you feel the shell touching your feet anywhere else during this process let the bootfitter know as this may cause problems later.

7. BEWARE OF SHORTLASTED LINERS

If a boot has a good shell fit but feels unusually tight with the liner reinserted, have your boot tech check for a “short lasted” liner. Manufacturers spec a small gap between the toe of the liner and the shell to ensure liner toe boxes don’t become crumpled when they’re inserted into the shell at the factory. Sometimes, though, liners can be faulty and slightly shorter than they should be.

Footbeds are the icing on the cake and will probably be recommended by every boot tech. Spend the extra cash and get them you will thank me for this advice

8. THE CUFF IS IMPORTANT

Boots have high cuffs as it is essential for controlling your skis. You’ll ski better in a boot that contours snugly along your lower leg. The cuff should wrap snugly with your buckle bails set somewhere near the beginning to middle of the catch ladders. If you need to put your buckles on the last catch the boots are not right. Alwasy around the midle of the catch ladders

Most buckles have macro and micro adjustments to help get a better fit around the fore foot The Cuff Angle (Canting) Is set at what the manafacturers consider to be the average. Sadly no one person is average and canting from time to time will require tweaking to garuntee a better interface between ski and boot

9. BEWARE OF MARKED SIZES

Size is only as a guideline. The sole length and inner cavities of supposedly similarly sized models can vary significantly. Liner styles, constructions and materials used can affect fit for the same manafacturer on diffrent :eek:

10. Be Honest and give feedback

You are the most important part in bootfitting be honest with the fitter and it will work out better for you . Saying you are an advanced skier after 3 weeks on skis will make you life a hell as you will end up with the wrong boots. If it hurts tell the fitter. If it is to loose tell the fitter. They are not the ones that will have to live with the boots.;)

am i bovvered · 23-11-2009 4:08pm

Thanks Fattes...
In an earlier thread you corrected me when I said someone would need a stiffer flex when becoming a more advanced skier.:o
Since then I have quoted your example of the instructor skiing on an 80 flex boot etc

However after reading the above advice maybe you can allay my fears.... I bought boots in london last month, and bought http://www.summitonline.com/mens-ski-boots/c1000000792/atomic-hawx-110-ski-boots-2010-p165018.html?utm_source=Shopping.com&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=CSE&Shopping.com_CSE I spent loads of time in the shop, midweek, and tried on loads of boots, got the footbed, heat treated liner etc.

My slight worry has been the 110 flex I am not expert-advanced, I can ski reds comfortably and get down black just OK. I told this to the fitter. The reason I chose these was that
1. they were the most comfortable, I have a skinny leg, ankle and foot.
2. probably mistakenly thought I could Ski my way into them this season will be ski holiday 7 & 8

Saying you are an advanced skier after 3 weeks on skis will make you life a hell as you will end up with the wrong boots.

What do you think ?

P.S. Since then my wife got boots in SNOW & ROCK, I would have no problem recomending these guys for boot fittings, I had a day to kill in London, decided to go just for the look !!!

Fattes · 23-11-2009 4:47pm

am i bovveredThe example of the instructor on the 80 flex boots is probably the opposite of what happend you. The instructor is an incredible skier but very light and not an aggresive skier therfore they found it difficult to work stiffer boots.

I am guessing you are prob around the 6 foot mark and way 80kg up? Because you have narrow feet most of the boots with a narrow last tend to have a high flex index.

110 flex boots will be grand for a 7 week skier if they have well developed legs or the weight/strenght to flex them.

If you do find them to stiff most boots have bolts around the ankles that can be removed which will soften up the flex by about 10-15% (In your case just on the white bit near the ankle and the joint of the plastic). Other boots also have plates in the back that can be changed to make the boot stiffer as you advance.

Just wear them around the house for a bit flexing into them to see how they feel. The cuts in the Hawks are not just there for show they apparently make the boots easer to flex dont get to panicked.

There is not really a set model for boot fitting it is all about taking all the information and feedback and picking the right boot.

Let me know if you need anything else

am i bovvered · 23-11-2009 5:09pm

Thanks again..

I am guessing you are prob around the 6 foot mark and way 80kg up? Because you have narrow feet most of the boots with a narrow last tend to have a high flex index.

I am 37 years old:cool:, 6ft high, at the beginning of september I weighed 82kg, I have been on a big fitness push ( run 5kg everyday + healthy eating ) now weigh 72kg, I have lost the belly :pac: but also some muscle, between now and Jan 12th I want to build up the muscle side.
This has all been because I want to improve my skiing this season.

Just wear them around the house

I have been doing this, despite the laughing of my children. They are very comfortable. We went for a lesson in the http://www.skicentre.ie/ they felt great there, but it was the first time so quite basic movements in the boots.

Thanks again for the advice

Fattes · 23-11-2009 5:49pm

We went for a lesson in the http://www.skicentre.ie/ they felt great there, but it was the first time so quite basic movements in the boots.

They still teaching people to lift there ski and stem

am i bovvered · 23-11-2009 6:06pm

we got as far as moving up to the top of the "slope" and plough turning back down, the lesson was good though, we just walked into the centre to check it out, I wanted to try on the boots and Kilternan was closed.

Fattes · 23-11-2009 6:13pm

I know allot of the guys that teach there and they are a really good bunch of instructors.

The mat has its limitations and advantages. Good for somthings not so good for others. Just like everything else I guess Kilternan included.:D

am i bovvered · 23-11-2009 6:46pm

Its not all they make it out to be but it is worth a go. The Instructor was top class, the most experienced skier I have ever met, lots of tips.
"Skiing" on the mat itself was grand and I will go back again for another lesson. I want to get on to the dry slope before we head off in Jan, but only could get up to Dublin on a midweek daytime and I think Kilternan is closed then ?

ftroop · 08-10-2010 8:44pm

Hi, I know you where talking about boot fitting a long tome ago, but I am from Northern Ireland and i am doing a ski season this year. I was just looking to know where the good boot fitters where in Ireland. Cheers

robinph · 08-10-2010 10:20pm

I believe that MacSki have been mentioned in the positive previously round these parts.

Fattes · 10-10-2010 3:39pm

ftroop: Best place in Dublin is Snow and Rock in the Dundrum centre, Dan and Ian are both top quality when it comes to ski boot fitting

As below McSki have a great reputation, have never used them myself but know plenty of people that have and they always give positive feedback in relation to the service.

If you are doing a season Spash the cash and buy some high quality footbeds for the boots. Would look at something comfortable if you are going to be wearing them all day every day!

markhenry5 · 11-10-2010 11:25pm

Fattes. Very good. A very comprehensive guide to boot fitting. I do think people are put in boots that are way too stiff for them.

bovril · 21-10-2010 9:28am

Does anyone know of anywhere in Ireland that stocks Lowa boots? I had a rental pair last year and after trying on a fair few pairs these were by far the most comfortable for me. I've looked on their website but there is no info on shops that stock them.

Skyhawk · 28-09-2011 9:09am

robinph wrote: »

I believe that MacSki have been mentioned in the positive previously round these parts.

Yep, they are excellent, well worth the trip. Look for John or Neil, they have lots of knowledge and experience. I bought custom performance boots there, needed bit of tweaking/modifications to get them right, and now they are perfect.
If you are buying boots, I would also recommend that you get custom foot-beds fitted.

derv · 08-10-2011 8:01pm

fattes do you have much knowledge on snowboard boots?
i'm in the market for a pair. where's the best place to buy?

thanks

Fattes · 09-10-2011 6:40pm

Derv; I have no idea about board boots, There are some very knowledgeable boarders on here.

I am sure if you start a thread they may be able to help.

I know TK Maxx are selling Board boots at the moment, no idea about the quality etc.

Would Try Snow & Rock, Great outdoors and Irishsnowboarders.com for advice.

Snowbride 2011 · 07-11-2011 11:44am

Hi,

I've always had problems with ski boots and need some advice

I'm short in stature and my calves seem to start at my ankles! As such, I need a very wide boot. After many years of rental trauma, I eventually bought a pair of Technica Vento 8. These were selected as they were the only ones I could physically close (just about, I still can't close the top clasp unless I've had them on for a week), plus they are far too big compared to my shoe size...alas, I saw this thread 4 years too late

The boots have now paid for themselves so I now think its time for a new and hopefully better fitting pair. Do you know of any brand that do a wider leg boot and if they are stocked anywhere in Ireland?

Cheers

bovril · 07-11-2011 12:26pm

Hi Snowbride 2011, sounds like I have the same problems as you. I found a great pair of rental boots earlier this year and came home and decided to try and purchase the boots in Snow and Rock in Dundrum. The guys in there are great and they told me that the boots I rented new out of the box were not the right boots for me. Turns out the rental ones had been stretched due to use. They recommended Technica ones as they are the widest boot they stock. I ended up getting Tecnica Viva Phoenix 80.

I would recommend calling into Snow and Rock and chatting with the guys and seeing what they can do for you.

I've also rented Lowa boots away. These were really comfortable and seemed wider than other boots but I don't think they are stocked in Ireland.

Fattes · 08-11-2011 2:33pm

Snowbride2011;

Your problem is not the boot Last (Width) as this will apply to the forefoot, from what you have said the issue is with the Cuff of the boot and the spoiler.

Nearly all brands to a range of boots with a last from 92 for race to 110 (Comfrot Fit) so you will be looking at the boots aimed at the comfort end of the market. Do not go to the shop with a specific boot in mind more an objective and an awarness of previous issues. There are boots with Narrow last and cuffs that can be wider.

If you have narrow feet a wide boot will cause tons of problems as your foot will be moving all over the place. Focus on the Cuff for the width.

Snow and Rock or McSki in Belfast are your best bets with a wide range of boots and good fitters. They may need to grind the cuff of the boot to make some more space and really open out the micro adjustment on the buckles.

Most women's boots are designed to accomidate women's more athletic Calf muscles. If i was you I would be looking for something with adjustable cuff buckles and Spoiler to give you as many options for fitting as possible.

Happy Shopping.

Snowbride 2011 · 08-11-2011 4:16pm

Wow..ok, I think I've managed to decipher what Last, Cuff and Spolier are

Thanks for the responses guys

Fattes · 08-11-2011 5:32pm

Sorry didnt meant to get all technical and carried away!

Basically Cuff & Spoiler are the upright piece of the boot on the leg

Last is the Width of the boot across the middle (Half way between instep and toes)

Try Pascal in Snow & Rock knows his stuff and is a decent bloke.

Snowbride 2011 · 29-11-2011 2:10pm

Hey, just an update. I did indeed get new boots. Snow & Rock, specifically Pascal was fantasic...I would recommend. Thanks for steering me in the right direction guys

Gatica · 20-10-2014 11:54am

Where is a good place to buy custom fitted ski boots? Would prefer Galway, but can go to Dublin for better selection or fit or price...
Mailed Great Outdoors in Dublin but still no reply. Anywhere else I can visit there?

Fattes · 20-10-2014 5:20pm

Gatica wrote: »

Where is a good place to buy custom fitted ski boots? Would prefer Galway, but can go to Dublin for better selection or fit or price...
Mailed Great Outdoors in Dublin but still no reply. Anywhere else I can visit there?

Gatica, Snow and Rock in the Dundrum Centre, Pascal is an excellent boot fitter, good range too, McSki, Belfast, are your other options

Jasnah · 13-01-2015 12:14am

Around how much would custom fitted boots in Snow and Rock be? Considering doing a season next year after catching the ski bug over the last two years, so figure I will need boots and a pair of skis. Also, any time of year that might be best for heading in and getting some discounts? Cheers Fattes, good advice here and on snowheads (where I looked originally, forgetting this forum existed!)

Fattes · 13-01-2015 12:17pm

Jasnah wrote: »

Around how much would custom fitted boots in Snow and Rock be? Considering doing a season next year after catching the ski bug over the last two years, so figure I will need boots and a pair of skis. Also, any time of year that might be best for heading in and getting some discounts? Cheers Fattes, good advice here and on snowheads (where I looked originally, forgetting this forum existed!)

How long is a piece of string! Depends on the boots that best suit you and what type of skiing you do. Probably looking at 220-450 depending on the boot, if you are doing a season, get something comfy! You will be in them a lot!

Pascal is the man at S&R, end of season they do a pretty big sale and early next season Sep, to clear stock! As for skis! If you are doing a season you will probably pick up a pair in resort cheap that will do you for a first pair! I know here you can pick them up from CHF 100- 250 for a really good pair the more expensive even have touring skins and binding!

Northern Monkey · 14-01-2015 9:34am

+1 for Pascal, top bloke.

If I was doing a season, I'd probably buy them in resort, some shops will have a seasonaire discount and if you need them tweaked you can get it done in the same shop rather than being hundreds of miles from where you bought them.

I bought a pair in the salomon shop in whistler (out of season when there was no snow) and had problems with the fit. It's been nothing but hassle trying to get it resolved with the shop since.

Donie75 · 13-01-2016 3:30pm

Hi,
I bought ski boots while on holidays in Soll around 10 or 12 years ago. They are Tecnica boots and initially they were uncomfortable but after a refit in the shop and again a few years later they are fine.
My skiing has improved a good bit over the last few years and I also find the boots fine to wear most of the time.
Have ski-boots moved on much in the last 10 year? I'm guessing mine were fairly basic boots. They only have three clamps where most now seem to have 4.
Would it be worth my while upgrading to improve my skiing and comfort further?

Steve · 13-01-2016 11:55pm

Donie75 wrote: »

Hi,
I bought ski boots while on holidays in Soll around 10 or 12 years ago. They are Tecnica boots and initially they were uncomfortable but after a refit in the shop and again a few years later they are fine.
My skiing has improved a good bit over the last few years and I also find the boots fine to wear most of the time.
Have ski-boots moved on much in the last 10 year? I'm guessing mine were fairly basic boots. They only have three clamps where most now seem to have 4.
Would it be worth my while upgrading to improve my skiing and comfort further?

Last time I bought boots - 2/3 years ago - I rented several different pairs until I found a pair I liked. It was a lot of to and fro but in the end it was worth it. I've a strange foot shape and found it hard to get one that was comfortable yet snug enough for control.

I went back to the same shop the next year and said I wanted to buy what I rented the previous year - was about €100 cheaper as it was last years model but have been happy ever since.

stecleary · 17-01-2016 11:27pm

Donie75 wrote: »

Hi,
I bought ski boots while on holidays in Soll around 10 or 12 years ago. They are Tecnica boots and initially they were uncomfortable but after a refit in the shop and again a few years later they are fine.
My skiing has improved a good bit over the last few years and I also find the boots fine to wear most of the time.
Have ski-boots moved on much in the last 10 year? I'm guessing mine were fairly basic boots. They only have three clamps where most now seem to have 4.
Would it be worth my while upgrading to improve my skiing and comfort further?

I bought my boot during the summer and most boots in S&R had heat molding shells, the boots i bought didn't fit too great before molding, 30 min later and its like putting on a tailored suit.

Mafra · 08-02-2016 10:03pm

stecleary wrote: »

I bought my boot during the summer and most boots in S&R had heat molding shells, the boots i bought didn't fit too great before molding, 30 min later and its like putting on a tailored suit.

I rented a pair of boots in Switzerland and really liked them. I asked if they would sell them to me but they asked a lot of money, considering they were 2 yr old model, which I wouldn't mind as they were in fantastic condition.(I googled the price and they were much cheaper new).
So now I'm finding trouble finding the same model as they have been replaced or updated.
I'm wondering should I go back and pay for the ones I liked and was comfortable in or go and have a pair fitted?
I'm just worried that I'll have to break in a new pair (or they break me in) and what if they're not as good? I've only ever rented and never had them properly or custom fitted.
Any advice please??

stecleary · 13-02-2016 2:50am

Mafra wrote: »

I rented a pair of boots in Switzerland and really liked them. I asked if they would sell them to me but they asked a lot of money, considering they were 2 yr old model, which I wouldn't mind as they were in fantastic condition.(I googled the price and they were much cheaper new).
So now I'm finding trouble finding the same model as they have been replaced or updated.
I'm wondering should I go back and pay for the ones I liked and was comfortable in or go and have a pair fitted?
I'm just worried that I'll have to break in a new pair (or they break me in) and what if they're not as good? I've only ever rented and never had them properly or custom fitted.
Any advice please??

I'll start off by saying my knowledge of boot fitting is zero, I've rented for years and always had mixed feelings about the boots I got. I decided to buy my own so I'd have a consistent feeling about them. I was told in snow and rock moulding pretty much takes the breaking in our of buying boots, I've used mine once since getting them and had no pains using them, I had to play around on how tight to have them for a bit but once I found where I needed to be they were grand. With out a doubt the best boots I've ever worn

olaola · 16-02-2016 3:42pm

I bought my boots in MacSki a few years ago, due to being pregnant over one ski holiday, have only been able to use them twice. The second time I had lost a few kgs, and the problem I had (which really drove the purchase of my own boots) was really thick calves! Now, I only went from a size 12 to a 10, but my legs have changed shape. Any recommendations on what I could do? My foot seems to move around a bit too much now.

Northern Monkey · 16-02-2016 4:00pm

I had my one and only week ruined last year due to ankle pain from pressure put on the bone by the boots pressing on it on my first day. I took the boots to snow and rock after I came back and they suggested a footbed and remould of the boots/liner, which I got done and thought nothing more of it until this week (heading away on Saturday). stuck the boots on last night and can instantly feel pressing on the ankle. I don't want to ruin another week with them, so should I bring them with me and hope to get them looked at in resort or sack them off and buy/rent a new pair when I get there?

olaola · 16-02-2016 4:17pm

Northern Monkey wrote: »

I had my one and only week ruined last year due to ankle pain from pressure put on the bone by the boots pressing on it on my first day. I took the boots to snow and rock after I came back and they suggested a footbed and remould of the boots/liner, which I got done and thought nothing more of it until this week (heading away on Saturday). stuck the boots on last night and can instantly feel pressing on the ankle. I don't want to ruin another week with them, so should I bring them with me and hope to get them looked at in resort or sack them off and buy/rent a new pair when I get there?

I'd say go back to Snow & Rock? Not sure what their policy is, but I know MacSki will help you resolve your boots, no matter how long ago you bought them. Usually a footbed will help sort out any pressing on an ankle. Could it be too high? Maybe shove another one in to see if that helps too?

Ah Crap! I just realised that MacSki have closed!!

Northern Monkey · 16-02-2016 5:17pm

olaola wrote: »

I'd say go back to Snow & Rock? Not sure what their policy is, but I know MacSki will help you resolve your boots, no matter how long ago you bought them. Usually a footbed will help sort out any pressing on an ankle. Could it be too high? Maybe shove another one in to see if that helps too?

Ah Crap! I just realised that MacSki have closed!!

Getting the time now is the problem. For me to take a week off work means doing 3 weeks work the week before, so it will be late nights for me all this week.

Fattes · 16-02-2016 8:04pm

McSki closed last year

olaola · 16-02-2016 8:54pm

Northern Monkey wrote: »

Getting the time now is the problem. For me to take a week off work means doing 3 weeks work the week before, so it will be late nights for me all this week.

A boot shop in the resort might help? Esp if you're renting skis from them? Did you get little plastic 'lifts' in the box with your boots? Might be worth fiddling around at home to find the right height for your ankle in the boot. Even pop in some cardboard just to get an idea. Start with nothing in and start adding layers until it hits the sweet spot.

Fattes · 16-02-2016 9:59pm

Do not fiddle with your own, boots, do not put cardboard in them, go to a proper boot fitter, even with my experience and knowledge I still couldn't get my own boots right. Even with a top class fitter it takes a good few hours to get them right.

olaola · 16-02-2016 10:01pm

Fattes wrote: »

Do not fiddle with your own, boots, do not put cardboard in them, go to a proper boot fitter, even with my experience and knowledge I still couldn't get my own boots right. Even with a top class fitter it takes a good few hours to get them right.

Don't put insoles into your own boots? Or cardboard to see if an extra pair of insoles would help?? What's gonna happen? Spontaneous combustion?

Fattes · 16-02-2016 10:43pm

Strain on your arches, alignment so poor it will put pressure on your ankle, knees and hip joints, that cause lasting damage, strain on ligaments and tendons The foot has 26 bones, 20 articulated joints, But you know I am sure like me you have some training in boot fitting or knowledge of how to properly align a ski boot to a customer that could have various complications by diagnosing it via the internet.

The only people that should be giving advise to people is a qualified boot fitter with the relevant tools, and knowledge to best fit and adjust the boot the the customers needs. The above described symptoms, could be solved by boot canting, sole planing, cuff alinement or shell modification.

Steve · 16-02-2016 10:44pm

olaola wrote: »

What's gonna happen? Spontaneous combustion?

Broken leg or worse.

Loss of control because your boots aren't right is a risk I wouldn't take.

Fattes · 17-02-2016 8:12am

This sums it up

olaola · 17-02-2016 2:45pm

Fattes wrote: »

Strain on your arches, alignment so poor it will put pressure on your ankle, knees and hip joints, that cause lasting damage, strain on ligaments and tendons The foot has 26 bones, 20 articulated joints, But you know I am sure like me you have some training in boot fitting or knowledge of how to properly align a ski boot to a customer that could have various complications by diagnosing it via the internet.

The only people that should be giving advise to people is a qualified boot fitter with the relevant tools, and knowledge to best fit and adjust the boot the the customers needs. The above described symptoms, could be solved by boot canting, sole planing, cuff alinement or shell modification.

WHERE did I say 'Go and ski with cardboard in your boots'????

Do you actually read any posts before commenting on them?

The fellow doesn't have time to get his boots refitted in Snow & Rock (see, I actually READ his post) and I thought that maybe, offering him some advice, instead of trolling the post looking for something to moan about might be a better use of my time.

olaola · 17-02-2016 2:46pm

Steve wrote: »

Broken leg or worse.

Loss of control because your boots aren't right is a risk I wouldn't take.

I never suggested he skis with cardboard in his boots. Please read the post before commenting.

Fattes · 17-02-2016 10:55pm

olaola wrote: »

WHERE did I say 'Go and ski with cardboard in your boots'????

Do you actually read any posts before commenting on them?

The fellow doesn't have time to get his boots refitted in Snow & Rock (see, I actually READ his post) and I thought that maybe, offering him some advice, instead of trolling the post looking for something to moan about might be a better use of my time.

Trolling ha ha! Perhaps check the definition. Correct and relevant advice is never trolling. You were giving someone advice on how to fit ski boots I will ask again what qualification do you have to suggest stuffing cardboard in their boots will help in any way.

The problem with this forum and the original purpose do this thread was to mitigate the woeful amounts of poor, ignorant commentary in relation to boot fitting. Sadly to many people with no qualification or relevant knowledge were giving advice that was worse than useless or damaging to those seeking it.

Boot fitting is a science and requires precision, skill and knowledge. The reality is if they don't have time' to solve the problem they will somehow have to make time, or they risk making the problem more severe or creating a bigger issue

Northern Monkey · 22-02-2016 5:00pm

Northern Monkey wrote: »

I had my one and only week ruined last year due to ankle pain from pressure put on the bone by the boots pressing on it on my first day. I took the boots to snow and rock after I came back and they suggested a footbed and remould of the boots/liner, which I got done and thought nothing more of it until this week (heading away on Saturday). stuck the boots on last night and can instantly feel pressing on the ankle. I don't want to ruin another week with them, so should I bring them with me and hope to get them looked at in resort or sack them off and buy/rent a new pair when I get there?

To close this one out, I brought the boots with me and got them adjusted in resort. They have been spot on for the 2 days I've worn them since.

Inconspicuous · 02-09-2016 11:18am

Lads,

I made the switch from Boarding to Skiing last year and I must say I'm really enjoying it. I'm planning on taking some lessons here again with the missus before heading off on our annual ski trip in the new year.

To that end I've convinced her that we should both get some properly fitted ski boots and "break them in" on the dry slope here before going. I reckon that it can only help our technique and progression having proper boots.

We're planning on taking a spin down to Snow and Rock some weekday and I was just wondering if its still the best place to go for proper guidance and fitting of boots. If not, has anyone got any advice on what we should do?

Thanks lads

Fattes · 02-09-2016 11:35am

Inconspicuous wrote: »

Lads,

I made the switch from Boarding to Skiing last year and I must say I'm really enjoying it. I'm planning on taking some lessons here again with the missus before heading off on our annual ski trip in the new year.

To that end I've convinced her that we should both get some properly fitted ski boots and "break them in" on the dry slope here before going. I reckon that it can only help our technique and progression having proper boots.

We're planning on taking a spin down to Snow and Rock some weekday and I was just wondering if its still the best place to go for proper guidance and fitting of boots. If not, has anyone got any advice on what we should do?

Thanks lads

Its pretty much the only show in town right now as Great Outdoors previous expert boot fitter is no longer working there.

Ask for Hubert, he is the best of what is available in Ireland right now, an ex top class ski racer, inexperienced boot fitter but good knowledge.

Inconspicuous · 02-09-2016 11:39am

Thanks Fattes.

Thats the problem living here alright, lack of good options for these things. Try as I might, i just can't convince my wife to move to the Alps

To be honest, since were both really only beginners I'm sure that somebody with his knowledge is probably still going to be good enough (hopefully). I'll call ahead before we go in and make sure he is around.

Thanks for all the help, you really are a wealth of knowledge!

Steve · 02-09-2016 10:50pm

When you get to the alps, there will we plenty of ski shops willing to help you - intersport etc.
Go in and explain that you want to 'try and then buy', they will fit you properly, rent them to you, and you can come back every day and try something different it it doesn't suit.

As a beginner (to skiing) I wouldn't recommend this though, rent your boots the first year and get a feel for what works, don't be shy about going back to the renter and changing them.

Skis for a first time skiier should be below your eye level when stood up in the shop. Shorter = slower and easier to turn, longer = faster and harder to turn.

A guide to ski Boot Fitting

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