The choice of your pair of ski shoes depends on your practice. As the essential interface with your skis, your shoes must provide comfort and foot support. Here are our tips for making the right choice. Every foot has its own characteristics — to choose well and avoid regrets once on the slopes, it is important to consult a professional who will study your foot morphology and guide you towards the right model.
Choosing ski shoes suited to your feet
Choosing a shoe suited to your feet (e.g. men's or women's, size and foot width) is the first step in finding the ideal ski shoe. Moreover, your needs will differ depending on your level and the terrain. You must therefore choose the right shoes for your practice.
It is important to measure your foot correctly — both in length and width. volume is equally important: a narrow foot in a "wide" shoe is very uncomfortable, the foot moves around and you lose precision. This is why it is important to consult a professional in store.
How do you know your ski shoe size?
If you wish to know your size directly in Mondopoint (which corresponds to the length of your foot in centimetres), you can of course measure your foot yourself.
- Place an A3 sheet of paper on the floor against a wall
- Place your back flat against the wall and press your feet against the wall
- Draw a line in front of the toe that extends furthest on the sheet
- Measure and add 1 cm (maximum) to determine your ski shoe size
It is also essential to take into account the metatarsal width, which corresponds to the widest part in mm at the forefoot (metatarsal). You can take this measurement by placing your foot on a ruler. Shoe width is chosen based on the skier's needs:
- 92 mm: very narrow. Reserved for competitors.
- 96–98 mm: narrow. For a narrow foot or a skier seeking precision at the expense of comfort.
- 100 mm: average width suited to most skiers.
- 102 mm: for a wide foot.
- 104 mm: for a very wide foot.
Flex
It is your skiing level that will determine the flex, i.e. the rigidity of your shoe. The higher the value, the stiffer the shell. As a general rule, a flex of 60 to 80 is recommended for beginner or intermediate skiers, offering more mobility and flexibility, while 90–110 is aimed at advanced skiers. A flex of 120 and above is designed for expert skiers. If you are an occasional skier of average level, base your choice on comfort rather than precision and performance.
The liner
The liner is the main comfort element of your ski shoe. Independent from the shell, the liner is removable — meaning it can be taken out and replaced. It provides protection against cold and moisture, while keeping your foot warm. This allows you to ski with dry feet! On the market you will find liners described as "thermoformed" or "memory foam". They are developed to fit the exact shape of your foot.
The buckles
Another component of a ski shoe is the buckles. These allow you to close and adjust the tightening of the shell. Depending on the ski shoes you choose, they can come with 3 to 4 buckles primarily. Ski shoes with 3 buckles help reduce pressure points and offer cable tightening with better distribution. Most ski shoes feature 4 buckles, which allow for more precise tightening.
It is important to note that each ski shoe brand may have variations in size and flex, so it is always recommended to try several models to find the one that suits your foot best.
Our tips for not damaging your ski shoes
- Do not leave your ski shoes outside overnight — the cold will destroy the insulating properties of the inner liner.
- Remove the liners from the shells when drying your shoes.
- Do not place your ski shoes near a heat source. Keep them at a safe distance, otherwise you risk melting certain parts of your ski shoe.
- When storing your ski shoes for a long time, keep them buckled up. They will retain their original shape and therefore their performance.
- A bag to protect your ski shoes when storing them — essential for protecting them from moisture.
Before making a purchase, don't forget:
- Your ski socks are also a major factor in foot comfort — you can bring them along when trying on boots.
- Bear in mind that the liner will compact slightly after a few outings on the snow.
- The foot must be held in place, but not compressed.
- The heel must not lift more than 0.5 cm.
- Make sure the toes do not touch the shell.
- The tightening should be easy and precise.
