Ski Boot Fitting Guide & FAQs

• What is a ski boot fit?
  
• When/ why should I get a boot fit?
• What do I need to bring/ wear to a boot fit?
• How should I choose my new ski boots?
• How long does a boot fit take?
• Can I get my current ski boots fitted?
• Can you work around my foot condition/ injury?
• How much does a boot fit cost?
• Can I use orthopaedic insoles/ custom orthotics in my ski boot?
• Who can do boot fittings?
• Will my new ski boots stretch?
• How much does boot fitting cost?
• How can I book a book fitting?

What is a ski boot fit?

A ski boot fit, in a nutshell, is fitting and shaping a ski boot to better fit your foot and help you achieve your goals on the mountain. There are a range of techniques used to get a good boot fit, including:

• Heat moulding
• Custom orthotics
• Heel raisers
• Adjusting liners

During your boot fit you will have your feet measured and assessed. This includes looking at the flexibility of your ankles and foot mechanics. We’ll also talk you through your style and what you like to do on your skis - are you a recreational skier, or do you like hitting the half-pipe? We’ll consider your level/ ability too. It’s all about finding the right boot and fit for you to make your time on the slopes as enjoyable as possible.

Boot selection is an important factor which is why it forms part of the fitting process, although we do also fit existing boots (both new off-the-shelf and used boots). If you’re considering a new ski boot, we highly recommend getting a boot fit before buying your new boots, as this process will ensure that you get the best boot, and will often mean fewer modifications too. You’re boot fit is included in the price of your new boot if you buy a pair from Rhythm Snowsports.

When/ why should I get a boot fit?
If you're looking to replace your boots or your old boots are causing pain, we'd recommend getting a boot fit. Despite popular opinion, your ski boots shouldn’t hurt. You may be relieved to get them off at the end of the day but they should not be causing you pain.

A ski boot fit will:

• Improve your comfort on the slopes, including reducing pressure points
• Improve performance
• Compensate for injuries and ailments and help to prevent new ones
• Give you access to experienced, boot-fit professionals to ensure you get the right boot for your needs

At Rhythm Snowsports we offer a boot fit guarantee. If you get up the hill and something isn’t quite right, bring them back, and we will work with you to address the pain points.. We want you to love your new boots.

What do I need to bring/ wear to a boot fit?

You don’t need to come decked out in your finest ski pants for your boot fitting, but you will need to:

• Bring ski socks - if you can, bring one of your thinner pairs of ski socks, as we’ll want to get a really close fit initially
• Bring any custom insoles/ orthotics that you usually wear
• Do not wear skinny jeans or anything you can't roll up to your knees

If you are getting your current boots re-fitted, be sure to bring these along too!

If you’d like our workshop to adjust your new boots to your bindings/ skis (this is included in the boot or boot price if you buy from us) bring these along too. We recommend making a separate booking with our workshop if you’re coming in peak season, as can get very busy. Just let the team know you’re having a boot fit done, and they’ll sort you out.

How should I choose my new ski boots?

If you’re buying new ski boots we highly recommend coming in for a boot fit before buying your new boots. Our team will assess your foot, and mobility and talk to you about what you like to do on your skis. Based on this, they’ll recommend boots that will be best for you and give you a few pairs to try. Once you’ve decided on the right one they’ll customise that fit for you.

There are a huge number of ski boots on the market, all with different flexes, purposes and compositions. Our experts know the boot market inside out - the good, the bad and everything in between - and will be able to help find you the right boot. What’s more, a boot fit is included when you buy your boots from Rhythm.

If you've already bought new boots, or want your existing boots refitting, don’t worry. Our team will work with you to get the right fit.

Can I get my current ski boots fitted?

Yes, you can. There may be some limitations to what we can do with them, particularly if you’ve had them modified in the past, but our team are incredibly knowledgeable and will help you to find the best path forward.

It is worth noting that ski boot materials have changed significantly over the past ten years. If your boots are more than 5 years old we’d recommend giving us a call in advance to make sure that getting them fitted is the right option and that we will be able to help. If we can, we absolutely will, but sometimes it is worth investing in a new pair. We find that customers are often surprised by how much lighter and more comfortable the newer boots are (and that’s before they get them fitted!).

How long does a ski boot fit take?

We recommend leaving an hour for your boot fitting. Sometimes its shorter (as quick as 30 minutes) but sometimes longer depending on pre-existing conditions. At the end of the boot fit you’ll walk away with your new boots.

Can you work around my foot condition/ injury?

Many people have trouble with their feet. From bunyons to 6th toes, our team have seen a wide variety of foot variations and knows the best boots and techniques to keep you comfy on the slopes.

For example, for bunyons, certain brands make boots with a perforate edge around the foot. With these there is more options for adding space, and it’s possible to get an additional 15mm to prevent pressure points.

For injuries, if you’re not able to weight-bare or have swelling, it would be best to come back at a later date otherwise, we’re unlikely to be able to get the right fit. That said, we have modified people’s boots who just wanted to get up the mountain in spite of their injury - we don’t recommend this as we can’t put the boot back to its original form - but we can help if this is what you’d like.

Can I use orthopaedic insoles/ custom orthotics in my ski boot?

Yes, you can however, we recommend getting a custom ski boot orthotic instead. If you wear an orthotic normally, it is very likely that you will need one for skiing too.

The cost of the insole itself is additional to the boot fit cost however moulding the orthotic will be included in the price of the insole. You can also purchase custom insoles separately to your boot fit.

Who can do boot fittings?

While there is no specific qualification for boot fitting, by coincidence all of our team have some kind of medical background. This means that they have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to your feet as well as being keen skiers themselves. They’re incredibly knowledgable about the boots on the market and how they compare to one another too.

Will my new ski boots stretch?

When you have your boot fitted, we are aiming for a very snug fit. This should not be painful, but you won’t have any excess room in your ski boot. As you wear your boot, your liners will mould to your feet. If your boot isn’t tight enough initially you’ll end up with too much space.

With a ski boot fitting, it’s always easier to make space than it is to fill space.

Do you do kids ski boot fittings?

Yes! We offer boot fittings for both kids and adults. For kids ski boot fits, we try to go a size up so that there’s room for growth and to make the boots last a little longer.

We also do ski boot fits for racers and competitive skiers.

How much does ski boot fitting cost?

Ski boot fitting starts at $15 for existing boots and is free with the purchase of new boots. For full pricing details, head to our boot fitting page here.