Ski boots are what link your body and your skis, so it’s important that you wear the right boots when carving down the slopes. There are lots of different factors to consider when buying ski boots, so it’s best to visit a ski shop in Westport so you can discuss your needs with a ski equipment expert. In the meantime, here are some important factors to keep in mind when purchasing ski boots.

Sizing
Buying ski boots isn’t like buying a pair of running shoes. For one thing, downhill ski boots are measured in mondo sizing, which refers to the boot’s inner sole length in centimeters. Another important consideration is the width of your foot. Ski boot manufacturers refer to foot width as “Last,” an old cobbler’s term that refers to the measurement across the forefoot in millimeters. For higher performance, make sure you select ski boots that fit tightly around your foot.

Boot Flex Index
Ski boots are best shopped by the amount of “flex” they offer, which is another way of saying how much pressure it takes to bend and move the foot. The higher the flex index, the stiffer the boot—and the more rigid your boot, the more power transfers to your ski’s inside edge. Your skill level is an important factor in choosing the right flex fit, as recreational and beginner skiers typically require a boot that is softer and more forgiving. Stiff flex ski boots are designed for those who ski with speed and confidence on the most challenging terrain.

Liners
Although boot liners don’t affect a skier’s performance very much, they can have a big impact on how comfortable you are during a long day spent on the slopes. For added warmth and a more supportive custom fit, select a boot that comes with a thermal-formable foam liner. These liners use your foot’s heat to achieve a custom fit that help you feel confident and supported on your skis.

Whether you’re a professional skier or a casual winter sports enthusiast, keeping your ski and snowboard equipment in top condition is extremely important. After all, the condition of your ski and snowboard equipment will directly affect your comfort, performance, and safety on the slopes. Fortunately, Ski & Sport of Westport offers high-quality ski and snowboard services that will keep your gear in tip-top shape.

From ski and snowboard tuning to complete base repair, the experts at Ski & Sport of Westport can keep your gear in mountain-ready shape. In addition to board maintenance and repair, Ski & Sport also provides “super feet” ski boot fitting and customization services. How well your boots fit is just as important as the condition of your skis or snowboard, so let the boot experts at Ski & Sport show you the benefit of custom-fitting boots.

Whether you’re new to skiing, have been on the same skis for years, or just tired of shelling out hundreds of dollars each season on ski rentals, you can find the perfect skis at Ski & Sport of Westport. But with so many different skis to choose from, how do you know which ones are right for you? Take a look at this quick guide for information on the top ski categories, and then visit your local ski equipment supplier for additional help narrowing down your choice.

All-Mountain Skis
Although this category can features skis ranging from slightly modified carving skis to slimmed-down powder skis, most “all-mountain” skis are generally designed for first-time buyers and recreational skiers. Your ability and skiing style, along with your preferred terrain and conditions, will help you determine whether an all-around ski is right for you.

Big-Mountain Skis
For skiers who like to tackle steep, technical terrain, big-mountain skis are designed to be rock-steady at high speed and adaptable to varying snow conditions. If you’re an expert skier looking to take your skiing to the next level, a stiff, burly big-mountain ski will make the entire mountain your winter playground.

Carving Skis
If you spend most of your time on groomed slopes perfecting high-speed arcs, carving skis may be perfect for you. With a pure focus on speed, edge grip, and precision turning, carving skis create an amazing experience on groomed hardpack slopes. The drawback is that these skis typically leave riders wanting more on less-than-perfect trails.

Freestyle Skis
Formerly known as “twin-tips,” freestyle skis are designed to make landing tricks easier. Freestyle skis also feature more symmetrical dimensions to make switch riding easier and better weight distribution for spins and rails. If you want to start exploring freestyle terrain parks, stop by Ski & Sport of Westport and get fitted for a pair of freestyle skis.

Before you ever tear it up on the mountain, you first need to get in your ski boots. Putting on ski boots is one of the most important steps in preparing for a run, as boots that are too loose or too tight can affect your performance, abilities, and even safety. This video demonstrates how to properly put on ski boots and adjust them for the best fit throughout the day.

If you’re still having trouble putting on your ski boots, it’s possible your boots are either too big or too small. To find out, visit a ski store in Westport . Perhaps your ski boots are the right size after all, in which case a ski equipment professional can show you how to clip-in for a day on the slopes.

Whether you are new to skiing and snowboarding or you’ve been hitting the slopes for years, it’s important to outfit yourself with the proper gear. You’ll need the right ski apparel as well as quality boots, goggles, a helmet, and skis or a snowboard. Snow sport fashion has changed a great deal over the years, as the wool and flannel ski trousers of the past have given way to technologically-advanced waterproof and breathable materials. Equipment has also evolved, with boots becoming more flexible and comfortable, offering you better control of your skis or snowboard. Take a look at this infographic from a ski store in Westport to learn more about the evolution of style in clothing and gear on the slopes. Please share with your friends and family, and start planning your next day on the slopes!