As ski season begins and we all get our gear out of storage, many of us grimace at the thought of putting a rigid ski boot back on. While many newer ski boots have improved technology for skier comfort, purchasing brand-new equipment is costly and even boots fresh out of the box aren’t a perfect fit. Here are some tips for improving the fit of your boots to help your feet and ankles feel free from the pain this season.
 

1. Proper Boot Sizing: It may seem like a no-brainer, but boots that are too small or too big have a direct impact on the comfort of the skier. And because ski boot sizes vary between brands and don’t have a perfect correlation to regular shoe sizes, it can be challenging to find the perfect fit without a professional measurement. We recommend visiting a boot fitter or ski shop to get a precise fit for your boots, versus trying to guess your size and shop without a fitting.
    
2. Custom Footbeds: A custom footbed or orthotic insole is a cost-effective way to improve the fit of your ski boot, as it helps distribute your weight and support your movement, based on your unique foot anatomy. Custom footbeds can be made by a boot-fitting specialist, as well as many ski shops.
    
3. Thermal Molded Liners: Many ski boots come with liners that can be heat-molded to your feet. Similar to a custom footbed, these liners are molded to your unique anatomy, which gives them a custom feel—a big upgrade from the fit right out of the box. If the hard shell of your ski boot is still in good shape but the liner is packed down, replacing your liner is a great way to refit your existing boots without splurging for a whole new pair. As with custom footbeds, molded liners can be fitted at a boot specialist or at many ski shops. 
    
4. Professional Fitting: If you’re looking to purchase new ski boots, scheduling a professional fitting will help ensure you get the precise size and fit, alongside the correct ski boot for your ability level. During a professional fitting, you’ll try several different kinds of boots, allowing you to feel the difference between brands and models. A professional fitting is an investment, but ensures the right fit for your feet.
    
5. Research: If you know your size and don’t want to invest in a professional boot fitting, it’s important to research the type of boot you need before purchasing. There are a plethora of boot manufacturers, and a range of ski boot types—you’ll see everything from a rigid racing boot to a flexible touring boot. Skier type—beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert—is an important consideration for boot fit, and for the flex range that would best suit your ski ability. 
    
6. Socks and Base Layers: For some skiers, simply picking the right sock is the answer to a better fitting ski boot. Cushioned socks can provide extra padding to alleviate pressure points for some skiers, while thin socks can give more room inside the boot for skiers to wiggle their toes and improve circulation (this helps prevent numbing on cold days). Regardless of preferred sock type, never use a cotton sock. A wool sock (merino wool can be spun very fine) wicks moisture, which will prevent the foot from getting extremely cold, which hurts! Your sock should be the only thing between your boot and skin—even the thinnest base layers can bunch up within the ski boot, causing discomfort to the shin and calf. 

If custom footbeds, liners or professional fittings have not alleviated your ski boot discomfort, consider visiting a foot and ankle specialist to help determine what is causing pain while you ski. It’s possible that additional modifications like boot canting or custom padding may provide relief. If there is an orthopaedic issue that is the root cause for the discomfort, working with a provider is the best solution for long-term pain alleviation.