How to Choose Ski Boots

Skiing is an exhilarating winter sport that combines adventure and adrenaline. Whether you're a seasoned skier or just starting out, having the right equipment is essential for an enjoyable experience. Among the many important pieces of gear, ski boots are the most crucial in influencing your comfort and performance on the slopes. The type and size of a boot you’ll need are influenced by factors like experience, size, foot width, and the type of skiing you are doing. Our Winter Sports Experts are here to provide you with the information and essential tips you need to find your perfect pair of ski boots.

Choosing the Right Ski Boot Size

Ski boot sizes are measured using a system called Mondopointe and are based on the length of your foot in centimeters (cm). You can easily find your indicated mondo size by using a piece of paper to measure your foot from heel to toe:

1. Align your heel to the bottom edge of the paper and draw a line at the top of your longest toe
2. To find ski width, also mark the widest parts of your foot (your forefoot) at this time
3. In a straight line, measure from the base of your heel (bottom edge of paper) to the mark you drew at the tip of your toe in cm.
4. This number is your mondo size. For example, if you measure 25.5cm, your mondo size is 25.5.

Sizing Notes

• Most people will get the boot size that matches their mondo measurement. However, an advanced or racing skier may opt for a slightly smaller boot than your mondo size for increased control on the slopes. 
• There is no difference between men’s, women’s, or children’s sizing when it comes to mondo sizing. All feet should be measured in the same way to find a more accurate fit. 
• To find your most accurate ski boot size, measure your foot and shop your mondo size. Using shoe size conversion charts to buy ski boots can be inconsistent and vary by brand.

Ski Boot Size Chart

After measuring your foot using the mondopoint method above, use this ski boot size chart to confirm your modnopoint sizing for men, women, and kids. 

Ski Boot Width - “Last”

“Last” refers to the width of the boot at the widest part (the forefoot) and is measured in millimeters (mm). Different brands usually vary in ski boot width, and some offer a variety of widths to choose from. If you marked the width of your forefoot when measuring length in the sizing section above, you can measure this width in mm to find your ‘last-width’ measurement. An average boot last is around 99-102mm. As a general rule, a narrower boot will be less comfortable but will offer you a higher level of performance and control. Most people will want to find a balance between control and comfort fits, but expert skiers often prefer narrower boots to optimize performance.

Ski Boot Flex

Ski boots are rated on a ‘flex-index’ scale from 60-130 to measure the rigidity or stiffness of the boots. Ski boots with a lower flex rating are the least stiff and most comfortable (preferred by newer and casual skiers), and boots with a higher flex rating are stiffer for racing and high performance. Skier size, including height and weight, also influences a skier’s ideal boot flex. Note—there is no industry-set standard for flex, so it’s best to use flex index as a general guide.

Soft Flex

Soft-flex index is typically below 85 for men and below 75 for women.

Usually the most comfortable and warm, soft-flex boots are ideal for newer or casual skiers (think well-groomed green and blue runs). A soft-flex boot is more fitting for someone of a smaller height and weight, as a stiff boot could inhibit natural body movement. *Note: If you are expecting yourself to progress quickly, try a medium-flexed boot.

Medium Flex

Medium-flex index typically ranges from 85-105 for men and 75-90 for women.

Medium-flexed boots are best for newer to intermediate skiers (think blue and black runs). Medium flex balances comfort and performance for skiers, allowing them to enjoy increased responsiveness which delivers higher speeds and better turns. Medium-flex boots provide increased support for the skier who wants to tackle moguls and steeper terrain.

Stiff Flex

Stiff-flex index is typically above 105 for men and above 90 for women.

Stiff-flex boots are generally favored by the advanced to expert skier who is more aggressive and confident on the slopes. A stiffer flex allows skiers to go anywhere and do anything on the mountain without feeling restricted. Stiff-flex boots may additionally be appropriate for the beginner or intermediate skier who is taller or heavier than the average skier.

How Should Ski Boots Fit?

Once you’ve figured out your ideal ski boot size, width, and flex, you are ready to try on your boots! Knowing how ski boots should fit and feel is important for maximum comfort on the slopes. Follow these tips from our Winter Sports Experts: 

• Wear wool or synthetic skiing socks. Avoid cotton socks, as they can increase the potential for blisters and lead to wet, cold feet.
• Put your boots on correctly. Start by unbuckling your boot completely. Grab the tongue loop as you step into the boot, and center the tongue on top of your foot. Clip yourself in starting with the bottom clips and work your way up. Adjust your buckles as needed—your boots should feel tight, but not uncomfortable.
• When standing straight, your toes should brush the front of the boot but not feel crammed. When trying a ski-tuck position, your toes should slightly pull away from the toe of the boot.
• Stand and walk around in your boots for at least 20 minutes—when you do this, the boot liners will heat up and compress, giving you slightly more room in the boot and providing you with a better feel for how the boot fits.
• With any major pain or sizing concerns, you should try a new boot. If you have minor aches, you may just require boot modifications to help you get the best possible fit.

Ski Boot Modifications

All feet are different, and ski boot modifications can help to improve the fit and comfort of your boots—leading to an overall better experience and performance on the slopes. Ski boot brands like Rossignol, Salomon, Tecnica, and Nordica offer premium boots that are customizable to personalize the fit and comfort of your boot. Additional modifications to keep in mind are boot liners for comfort, insoles for support, or removing/repositioning the spoiler between the liner and shell, directly behind the calf.

How Long Should Ski Boots Last?

Manufacturers state that most boots should last about 100-200 skiing days. However, there are many factors that contribute to this number—including how they’re used and the quality of your ski boots. If you have great quality boots and ski casually, they can last you up to 6-8 years. However, it’s likely your boot liners will compact and soles will wear out before then and need replacing. You’ll know it’s time to replace your boots if you find that they are no longer fitting well, the plastic shell has cracked, the buckles have snapped, or your skiing preferences have changed and you require a different flexed boot.

Taking Care of Your Ski Boots

To upkeep your boots and make them last as long as possible, make sure to take care of them on and off the slopes by following these tips:

• After each ski day, dry out your boots completely, as moisture can damage your boots. 
• If the liners are wet, you should remove them from the boots, towel dry the liner exterior, and let them air dry. 
• If you are a frequent skier, a boot dryer is a great investment and works to circulate air to dry boots and liners without using direct heat. 
• Use a towel to wipe the shell of your boots. When not in use, be sure to place your boots in a boot bag and leave them in a cool, dry place. 

By understanding ski boot sizing, width, and flex, you’re ready to choose your boots and be set for the slopes this season. For any additional questions you have about ski boot sizing, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert! 

Related Skiing Articles

Questions about other ski-related topics? Check out our relevant articles below!

• What to Wear Skiing
• How to Choose Downhill Skis