Fastening Ski Boots... and Walking In Them!
First time in ski boots? These hints are here to help. When you're getting started skiing, fastening ski boots and walking in them can feel intimidating. The boots are heavy, stiff and awkward. No worries. I will walk you through getting started skiing...from the very beginning.
Fastening Ski Boots First make sure you don't have any folds in your socks. Put your foot in the boot fully. Most ski boots have a power strap and two sets of upper and lower buckles. The power strap goes around the top of the boot, closing the top so it is easier to fasten the buckles. If your boot has one, fasten the power strap first by pulling it snug. Then, do up all the buckles part way. Last, fully fasten the buckles so that your boots are snug. But not so they are uncomfortable or painful. Start with the one over your toes. Then around your ankles. Finally those up your leg. If your feet start to feel a little numb, undo one of the buckles by a notch or two. Or if you need help understanding how your boots should fit, visit our Ski Boots page under Ski Equipment. (Ski Boots)
Walking in Ski Boots When you walk in your ski boots, loosen the power straps and don't buckle the top clips completely. This allows your ankles to bend a little. Take it slow and rock on your feet from toe to heel as you walk. It is possible to walk with your boots fully fastened. But it isn't great for them. Nor is it very comfortable. Some people leave their ski boots completely unfastened. But then they become really loose and flop around. So, loosen those buckles and you'll begin to feel at home in your boots. TIP: Once you're on the snow and progressing, you might find your feet go numb riding a chair lift. If so, loosen the buckles before you get on the lift. But remember to do them up again before you ski!
What's Next? Click here to see how best to carry your skis or put them on and take them off. Plus, get your ski poles right from the beginning.
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