Ski boots are products that need to convince us that, when we walk out the store door, we are going to be happy living with them for many skiing hours. The point is that we don’t usually have the option to demo boots as easily as we can demo skis. So, buyers beware - expect that any reputable ski boot fitter will spend an inordinate amount of time satisfying your mind that the boots are the best boots for you.
Of course, you have to do your part. That is to be honest about the type of skier you are, and how much money you can invest in your boots. Put these into an equation with your weight, foot size, and leg size, and a good boot fitter can narrow down the best boot available to your price range.
Remeber to try on different brands to get a handle on how the brand specific shell designs fit your feet, i.e. heel and toe pockets, and ankle and calf volume. Next, you need to think about customizing the boot to your individual needs – custom foot beds and perhaps canting alignment.
Here is a look at some of the best of the 2006-2007 models.
Atomic Ski Boots
Atomic boots have long been well known for stepping on World Cup podiums and their Race Line will continue that trend. However, for the recreational skier look in the X-Series for the X 100 and X 100 W all-around performance in both men’s and women’s fits.
Atomic Ski Boots (Buy Direct)
Lange Ski Boots
With almost 40 different models, from a World Cup plug boot to 8 models for juniors, there is something here for anybody and everybody. The race research of Lange translated into a Fluid Performance Series. The Men's Fluid 100 and the women's Exclusive 90 offers comfort and fit to translate foot commands to the skis.
Lange Ski Boots (Buy Direct))
Nordica Ski Boots
The Gran Sport series offers a new concept for ease of walking and forward flexing. The Gran Sport 12 works well in both men and women models.
Nordica Ski Boots (Buy Direct)
Rossignol Ski Boots
Rossignol jumps back into the WC level with a “plug” design in the Radical series and covers all bases with the Bandit B Squad of all mountain boots. The Zena X10 women’s can work well for intermediate into advanced skiers.
Rossignol Ski Boots
(Buy Direct)
Tecnica Ski Boots
Tecnica's new Modo Series has an “UltraFit Liner” that is said to offer maximum comfort up to the expert skier level. The Modo 10 is definitely a good buy.
Tecnica Ski Boots (Buy Direct)
