Best ski boots for beginners and pros for 2020

Skier's boots are the most important piece of equipment. It depends on the shoes how much the skier will enjoy this sport. There are a large number of models on the market, so it is difficult for beginners to independently choose the desired look. They don't know which characteristics to focus on. This article will help in this matter. With the right choice, the boots will last for several years and will delight their owner.

The main parameters when choosing ski shoes are the place to ski, the skills of the athlete and the estimated budget. If it fits a person, then the skier will be able to avoid injuries while skiing.

Kinds

Disposable (rolling)

This model can be found in any rental center of the famous resort. They are chosen for rental because they are suitable for any person. All have different leg widths, and they can be fixed with fasteners. This option is often chosen by beginners because they have never tried such shoes.

You can ride them several times, but there is no point in buying them for permanent use. It is very difficult to adjust the width to be comfortable. Choosing the right size is almost impossible. It is inconvenient to ride and move in them.

Another disadvantage is that after a short period of time they become unusable. They become loose and stop fixing the leg at all. This will adversely affect descending comfort and can result in serious injury.

If at the box office they are changed extremely rarely, then the client will not be able to properly learn to ride and enjoy this process.

Standard hardness is up to 80.

Piste

This type is worth choosing when skiing on prepared trails using hard skis. Their main feature is that the boot is tightly fixed on the leg, and the skier can accurately transfer the pressure to the desired leg. This is very important when riding.

The last is narrow for extra support and the boot is stiff. It is very easy to control the skis in these boots. This type is suitable even for beginners. If you compare with ordinary rental, the difference is obvious.

The main disadvantage is that you often have to adjust the boots to match the skier. If you make the wrong choice, it will feel good on descents.

It is better to choose models with maximum rigidity. This will not affect the difficulty of handling or riding comfort in any way.

For freeride

The second type is for freeriding. Their main feature is that they are light and very warm. They are often chosen for off-piste skiing as they withstand extreme temperature changes and difficult terrain. If the skier does not have the opportunity to rest and warm up indoors, then the shoes should warm the feet.

These boots are not only comfortable to ride, but you can also walk a long distance with tangible obstacles without any problems. For example, over snowdrifts and stones. For wild conditions, this is ideal.

The difference is that they are wider and stiffer at the side fold.

Universal

For those who do not know exactly where they will ride, a universal boot was made. They took the best properties from freeride and piste. You can ride in these ski boots for a long period of time.

The main features are a stiff boot, a thick sole and a mid-last. It is convenient to stay in them for a long period of time due to their light weight. Allowable hardness - from 100.

The disadvantages include stiffness during long walking and not a snug fit to the leg.

Park

For this type, rigidity is not needed. The feature of park boots is a soft landing when jumping. They are not suitable for regular skiing on the tracks.

Hardness - no more than 100.

For freestyle

This series is designed to perform complex tricks on the obstacle jumps.

Ski tour

They are specially designed for the combination of downhill and cross-country skiing - ski mountaineering. It is convenient to overcome difficult ups and downs in them. Can only be used by professionals.

Basic parameters for selection

Going to the store, you can get lost from the bright designs and famous brands. What to look for when choosing?

Size selection

The choice of size is the main parameter that must be considered when buying a new pair of ski shoes. Making a purchase on the Internet is much more difficult than in a store. There are some tips.

Do not lace them up immediately after trying them on. Several small heel strikes are required. This will put the shoe in the right position. You need to fasten, starting with the middle clip, which fixes the heel. If the size is selected correctly, then the fingers should rest on the toe, but at the same time move slightly. In order to feel your sensations in shoes, you need to be in them for at least 15 minutes. During this time, a person will be able to understand how comfortable he is to be in it. Sometimes, this takes up to 40 minutes. Only after such a period of time can you understand how comfortable a person is.

In order to understand which pair is suitable, you need to try on at least a few varieties. You can try different stocks this way. Then the probability of making the right choice will be much greater. It is best to set aside a whole day to find the best option for yourself.

If you have flat feet, you should pay attention to the insole. It can be purchased separately if required.

Rigidity

Rigidity (flex index) is an important criterion that must be paid attention to. This indicator depends on the level of professionalism of the skier's skiing. For beginners, it is better to opt for readings from 50 to 70, for more experienced ones - from 80 to 110, and for experts - from 120 to 160.

Clasps

The clasp is a clip and a comb.

In cheaper models, the clasps are made of plastic. This is not the best option for fixing, because they quickly break from a small impact. It is better to look for models with clasps made of steel, magnesium alloy or aluminum. They will last much longer.

Micro-adjustment is an important parameter to pay attention to. It can be used to fine tune the correct coverage of the shoe.

When buying, you should pay attention to the size. If the fastener is large, then it will be much more convenient to tighten it with gloves.

Some models have laces for extra protection at the top. These are essential for skiers who accelerate to high speeds.

The presence of the function - protection against opening. It is most commonly found in athletic shoes.

The main features of choosing ski boots

For kids

It can be difficult for children to choose ski boots, because they may not understand how comfortable their feet are in these shoes. Buying it without a child is not a good idea. It is best to pre-measure the child's leg at home in sentiment. This will make it easier to find the correct size.

In children, the leg grows quickly, so you should definitely take this feature into account. When buying, it is better to choose boots that are slightly larger in size.

The next thing you need to pay attention to is the fastening of the fasteners.For greater reliability, it is best to choose a model with four clips. They will not fall off when dropped or hit.

For a child, you need to choose good models, because his leg is still being formed and the wrong shoes can develop deformation of the foot or lead to diseases.

For women

For girls, special models of ski shoes have been developed. Their difference is that they have a wide and at the same time short shin shape, and are also insulated as much as possible inside.

Girls with small feet do not need to go to the children's department. It is important to buy ski boots specifically for an adult. Children's shoes are designed for light weight. This can lead to unwanted trauma for the girl.

Women's models are equipped with a small "heel" that helps to make maneuvers.

A large number of bright designs have been developed for fashionistas, so every girl can find not only comfortable, but also stylish shoes.

The recommended stiffness for beginners who first got on skis is up to 60, for professionals - up to 80.

For men

It is very important for men to know their weight before buying shoes. The larger it is, the stiffer the shoes should be. Shoes should support the skier. The second indicator that is taken into account when choosing stiffness is growth.

When buying, you can contact your bootfeather. He will help you adjust your ski boots.

Correct care

Taking care of your ski boots is very important. If you take care of these shoes correctly, then it will serve its owner for more than one season.

1. After skiing, the inner felt boot must be taken out and dried well. If necessary, wash in a washing machine at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees. Since your foot will sweat in shoes, it is best to do this regularly.
2. The outer part of the shoe must be examined after every ride. The fasteners must be in good working order and snap into place securely.
3. Do not place them on a hot battery or on a radiator. This will damage the material.
4. For better drying, you can use newspaper. It must be crumpled and stuffed into the inner boot. This method is often used by skiers if they ride on the slopes every day.
5. For disinfection, you can use a special spray that is sold in many stores.

Top 10 best ski boots for beginners and professionals

Head Advant Edge 75

This model is ideal for both beginners and professional skiers. Stiffness index - 75. Average price - 10,000 rubles.

The inner felt boot is reliably insulated, so you can ride on the tracks for a long time and not get cold. Suitable for both men and women. Choice of colors - black and red.

The clips are made of aluminum, which ensures a secure fit on the leg.

Made in the Czech Republic.

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ATOMIC Hawx Prime 95 W

They are designed for people with an average build. This model is popular among all female skiers in the world. The ATOMIC Hawx Prime 95 W is not only stylish design, but also comfortable while skiing, both on and off the slopes. They are made for advanced athletes.

They are versatile and have a wide shoe. Thanks to the new Memory Fit system, they create a better fit and individually adapt to any foot.

Stiffness index - 95.

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Elan ezyy 1

The Elan Ezyy 1 is a budget ski boot for kids that is suitable for beginners. The average price is 7,000 rubles.

The inner felt boot has a specially designed insole that allows you to control the length and includes three sizes. Since the child's foot grows very quickly, this feature allows you not to update the shoes every season, which will help save the family budget.

The model is very popular because the Elan Ezyy 1 boots are designed for comfortable riding. They flex according to the anatomy of the child's foot and are not harmful to health.

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Scarpa Freedom SL

The ideal model for freeride and ski touring is the Scarpa Freedom SL. The outer boot is hard. There are two modes - riding and walking. The inner one is elastic, so it is convenient to climb the mountain in such shoes. The main feature is that the boot leg can move up to 27 degrees when walking. Suitable for all types of slopes.

Thanks to four clips, they are well fixed on the leg. Weight - 3.6 kg.

Hardness - 120.

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Salomon Quest Access 70

One of the most famous ski models for women is the Salomon Quest Access 70. They gained such popularity due to their warm felt boots and light weight. In them it is convenient not only to go downhill, but also to walk on the snow. This model is suitable for beginners who begin skiing for the first time.

Country of origin - Romania.

The average price is 10,000 rubles.

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Tecnica Zero G Tour Scout

These boots are suitable for the professional skier who values ​​comfort. Tecnica Zero G Tour Scout are lightweight boots, weighing only 1300 grams each, they will last for more than one season. The model is suitable for both narrow legs and wide ones.

The clasps are made of magnesium alloy, so they will serve their owner for a long time, while providing reliable protection against opening. Thanks to the double locking system, the skier does not have to worry about stability at high speeds.

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ATOMIC Hawx Magna 85 W

The next model in our ranking is the ATOMIC Hawx Magna 85 W, which are suitable for beginners and professionals. These shoes are made for people who value comfort. In them, the skier's feet will not freeze when skiing or walking thanks to the Thinsulate material.

The last is wide, but thanks to the fasteners, it is easy to adjust to fit any foot. This model is suitable for both men and women.

Hardness - 85.

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FISCHER Cruzar X 8.5

This model pleases buyers with its affordable price and good quality materials. The average price is 8,000 rubles.

The model has a minimal number of seams, so you don't have to worry about uncomfortable friction. Shaft angle - 12 degrees. This allows you to ride in a stance that is more comfortable for your feet. There is additional space in the toe area. Fasteners material - aluminum.

Hardness - 85.

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Waymaker Tour 90

A popular model among skiers is the Waymaker Tour 90. They are made for skiing and walking comfortably. They are ideal for both high climbs and descents.

The main feature is the Free-Lock system. Thanks to this technology, you can quickly switch between two modes: riding and walking.

Live Fite technology helps the boots adapt to any foot width. Despite the presence of only three clips, they hold well on the foot.

Hardness index - 90.

The set includes special pads that are installed on the sole with a key.

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Full Tilt First Chair 10

Many riders give their preference to this particular series. They are built for freeride and super fast speed on the slopes. Very tough, but at the same time comfortable ski boots. Suitable for experts who don't like getting bored on the slope. The top-mounted power strap ensures reliability in sharp turns and descents.

The boot consists of three parts: tongue, liner, and shell. The tongue folds back for easy donning. At the same time, it bends and does not deform.The liner is baked, so it can exactly fit the shape of a skier's leg. It contains a minimum number of seams. The width of the inner part is only 99 mm, so boots are suitable only for narrow legs. The inner part, thanks to the Intuition Pro Liner technology, retains heat and protects from stress.

Includes outsole pads that provide good traction.

Hardness - 120. Weight - about 2 kg.

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Selection errors

1. The most common mistake is sizing. A large number of people are buying larger shoes. Most often, this problem occurs in men. When buying, they choose 1-2 sizes larger than they wear shoes in everyday life. This is the wrong decision. If the leg walks back and forth, then this size does not suit you. When choosing ski boots, you need to focus only on the athlete's size in centimeters. Measuring your foot is very simple. To do this, put your foot on a white sheet of paper, draw a horizontal line above the big toe and below the heel. Then measure the distance between them with a centimeter or ruler. There is an easier option - to seek help from a consultant. Most stores today have a special device called a “foot gauge”. But do not choose models that press the heel.
2. A common mistake buyers make is fitting them incorrectly. For the purchase, it is important to measure shoes on warm socks in which the skier plans to ride.
3. The third common mistake newbies make is buying the softest boots. Rigid ski shoes perform much better in the grip function between the foot and the ski.
4. A large number of types of shoes are distinguished by beautiful and bright designs, but this is far from the most important criterion when buying. Feet should be comfortable.
5. A skier can ride in warm boots, but complain that his feet are cold. This problem can occur if the fasteners are tightened too tightly. Blood does not enter the vessels and therefore the legs are cold.
6. An incorrectly fitted sock is another common mistake among skiers. The comfort of a person depends on this. The best material for this thing is cotton. It keeps you warm and dries quickly.

If you choose the right ski boots, then even hours of skiing will bring only pleasure and positive emotions.