Know How Boots Are Supposed To Fit

Ski and Snowboard boots should feel comfortably snug everywhere—heel, instep, and toebox.  Your toes should be barely touching the front edge.  If a boot fits "just right" out of the box, chances are it will be too big when the boot breaks in.  Specifically as the heel pocket breaks in your foot pulls away from the front edge of the boot, allowing for some toe wiggle room. It usually takes 4-8 times riding to break in your boots.  Or, for many boots, you can have them heat molded at a shop to simulate the break in process.

Helpful Trick

1. 1. Put your boot on and tighten it up like you're about to go riding. 
2. 2. Now stand up straight with your knees locked.  Your toes should be lightly touching the front of the boot.  Not enough to bend your toes, but there should be contact.
3. 3. Now get into your athletic ski or snowboarding stance with your knees bent.  You should feel pressure on your shins as you flex the boot.  In this stance, your toes should pull away from the front of the boot.

Why Does This Work?

Ski and Snowboard boots are designed to fit when you are using them on the slopes, not when you are walking around.  Look at your boot from the side.  Notice the way the entire boot leans forward.  This shape will force your foot forward when you stand up straight, causing your toes to hit the front of the boot.  However, when you bend your knees and get into your performance stance, your foot moves back into the proper position for riding.  Your toes will leave the front of the boot as your heel sinks into the heel pocket.

Know Your Shoe Size

We mean your actual shoe size.  More often than not, when we ask someone their shoe size before measuring their foot they tell us anywhere from a half size to two sizes bigger than their actual measurement.  A half size bigger in your favorite pair of sneakers isn't a big deal, but ski and snowboard boots need to fit snug everywhere for proper performance, and to prevent foot pain, blisters and cold feet.  Yes, boots that are too big can cause cold feet.  Over-tightening buckles to compensate for a big boot can cut off blood flow, causing cold feet.  

Leave the Cotton Socks at Home

Do NOT use cotton socks.  Cotton retains moisture which causes blisters and cold feet.  We suggest a wool/synthetic blend, however, 100% wool or 100% synthetic socks work well too.  Ski/Snowboard socks are specifically built to add support and comfort.