It’s the skier’s truism. Boots are our single most important piece of equipment.
While many consider their main function to be comfort and warmth, their primary role is the efficient transfer of energy and movement from skier to skis.
A SeniorsSkiing.com reader survey conducted a few years ago showed that in a given season, 25% of you purchase new boots. In that and subsequent surveys, many of you have commented on the need to change boots because the damn things hurt…or because your feet are uncomfortably cold.
But the correct boot fit isn’t that easy. Ski shops try to stock a good range of options, but they’re never complete. Custom boot shops can provide a good fit, but the customer may pay dearly.
Getting the best fit is an exercise in both science and art, which is why finding and working with a skilled boot fitter can be essential. Fitters I’ve met take true pride in their craft, often trading shoptalk about the difficult feet they’ve successfully fit.
Older feet, especially, require care in the boot selection and fitting process.
A great place to start that process is with SeniorsSkiing.com’s list of the Best 2020-21 Ski Boots for Senior Skiers. That list is now available to subscribers by clicking here.
It was winnowed from a more extensive ski boot evaluation organized last Spring by America’s Best Bootfitters, whose principals have been running North America’s annual boot evaluation event for several decades.
The listing groups boots into two categories most appropriate for older skiers. Each category has recommendations for men and for women and each recommendation is accompanied by comments excerpted from the testers’ comments.
Have a foot that’s wide in the front but has a narrow heel? There’s a boot for you. Is your instep high? There’s a boot for you. Prefer the on/off comfort of a rear entry? There’s a boot for you.
Visit the list, find a prospect or two, and click the link to the extensive boot description and testers’ commentaries, as they appear in the fantastic new Masterfit Buyers Guide, to be highlighted in an upcoming issue.
And if you’re seeking the services of a qualified boot fitter, visit America’sBestBootfitters.com.
I am a 71 year old chap living in Australia. Born in the USA learned to ski in Switzerland as a teenager.
I have a high instep.
These days I ski with a rear entry boot. That’s right, rear entry. For the first time in my life I suffer no pain.
Amen
I also have a high instep. Fulltilt boots are the answer. Easy in & out & pain-free. Plus the tongue is quickly replaced for either a softer or stiffer flex. New tongues run ~ $50.00 per pair. The Intuition brand of liner is very nice. Also replaceable boot soles. What’s not to like?
So what was the brand of your great rear entry comfy ski boots?
I agree with Bob, rear entry boots are super comfy and so easy to get on and off. I have skied with a pair of Nordica’s since the 90’s.
Now I notice the company is bringing out a new line for the 2020/21 season. You can also fasten them without bending down, just push down with a ski pole, likewise to undo them! In the 60’s I had a pair of lace up Austrian boots and cable bindings….and rode A Poma Lift at Mt. Norquay.
This article is supposed to feature the “Best Boots for Senior Skiers”. I noticed that the majority of boots for men are in the 130 flex range. I’m 70 years old, I ski an older Nordica Speedmachine with a 95 Flex and that’s plenty stiff for me. How is a 130 Flex boot going to work for seniors who are wanting to dial things back? Am I missing something?
I can’t tell from the listings which boot is for my problem: a wide forefoot but normal to narrow ankles and calf. Anyone know?