How to Choose the Best Ski Boots for You - Altitude Ski and Snowboard School in Verbier

How to choose the best ski boots for you!

The Best Ski boots can make the difference between a good holiday and never wanting to ski again. They are that important!

So how do I ensure I have the right boots and a good holiday?

First, make sure that your boots are the right size. A good bootfitter will measure your foot and offer you boots to rent or buy that are the right size. Boots that are too big are very unpleasant to ski in; as your foot moves around inside the boot you will find you get pain in the toes, ankles and shins as the repeated impacts create sore points.

If you purchase your own boots, a good bootfitter will mould the boots to your feet so that you get an optimum, customised fit, that is not only more comfortable, but will make you a better skier.

What else should I consider with my boots?

The flex of the boot is very important. As a beginner skier we want a softer, more flexible and forgiving ski boot that allows us to hold a good skiing position over the skis. An expert skier on the other hand would want a much stiffer boot that allows them to manage the power transfer from leg to ski more progressively. However, if your boot is too stiff, it tends to put you in a bad position on your skis.

Think as well about what you will use the boots for. Some boots are more focussed towards freestyle, on piste or ski racing with different properties to suited to each discipline.

Anything else?

Try as many different brands of boots as you can until you find the best fit for you. Each manufacturer builds their boots with slightly different shapes and sizes. Again, we can’t stress this enough, but find a good bootfitter and they will fit you with the best boot for you and ensure you have the best ski trip possible.

Check out our Blue Blog for more ski tips and advice!

Level 1 (complete beginners)

  • No skiing or snowboarding experience is required.
  • Don’t worry, everyone has to start at the beginning.

 

Level 2

Level 2 (intermediate beginners)

  • Be able to use the magic carpet and handle tow on the nursery slopes.
  • Some control of speed and direction.

 

Level 3

Level 3 (advanced beginners)

  • Ride all lifts on the nursery and easy slopes.
  • Be able to control speed using turns.

 

Level 4

Level 4 (intermediate)

  • Confident on blue runs, turning comfortably.
  • Skiers should have their skis parallel some of the time.
  • Snowboarders should be confident on both heel and toe side turns.

 

Level 5

Level 5 (intermediate advanced)

  • Confident on red runs when conditions are good.
  • Feel challenged by ice, moguls or deep snow.

 

Level 6

Level 6 (advanced)

  • Confident with red runs in all conditions, get down most black runs.
  • Looking to improve in moguls, off-piste or carving.

 

Level 7

Level 7 (expert)

  • Confident on blacks and be able to safely get down itinerary routes.
  • Working on improving skills and speed in carving, moguls or powder.
  • Be waiting to improve jumps and tricks in the freestyle park.

 

What languages are the lessons taught in?

The main language is English, however if possible we will try to match the instructor to the languages that you speak. Many of our instructors also speak second languages.

Where do groups meet?

All group lessons meet on the car park of the Pub Mt Fort – one minute walk from Medran lift station.

Important information for parents

Important information about the material to be brought from home, come prepared!

  • Sun cream and lip protector
  • Goggles / glasses that provide adequate UV protection
  • Money for a drink, chocolate etc.
  • Appropriate clothing and gloves
  • Protective helmets
  • Correct fitting skis and boots

Parents must inform the instructor and school prior to any session of any medical conditions or special needs. We do expect any children on any lesson to be able to use the toilet unassisted.