Downhill Skiing

Find the right size boot

A boot should fit snugly and hold your foot securely in place, without causing pain or pressure points.

• Measure your feet and consult the brand’s ski boot sizing chart
• If possible, try boots on in person

Consider the last width

Last is the width (mm) of the inside of the boot at the ball of your foot.

• Narrower last: Ideal for narrow feet or those who want a tighter, high-performance fit   

• Wider last: Better for wider feet or those prioritizing comfort

Understand ski boot flex

• Softer: Comfortable and forgiving; great for beginners or smaller skiers

• Medium: Best for intermediate to advanced skiers; balances comfort and responsiveness

• Stiff flex: Ideal for expert skiers; prioritizes performance

What type of skiing will you be doing?

• Downhill skiing: Helps balance and time turns; most are fixed length
• Backcountry skiing: Adjustable poles let you lengthen for uphill travel, shorten for descents
• Cross-country skiing: Longer and lighter, designed to help you glide forward efficiently. Poles for skate skiing are longer than for classic skiing.

Sizing downhill poles:

• Stand in your ski boots on a level floor
• Grip the poles just below the basket
• Your elbow should form a 90° angle
• If the angle is less than 90°, try a shorter pole
• If the angle is greater, get a longer pole.

Basket type:

• Standard: for most conditions
• Powder: for deep snow
• Powder and standard: Interchangeable baskets

Where do you plan to ski?

Match your skis to the conditions and areas on the mountain you enjoy skiing. Your choices are all-mountain skis, powder skis, freestyle skis and backcountry skis.

Consider the waist width of your ski:

• If you ski groomers or are a beginner, consider a narrower ski—under 90mm wide.
• If you ski the whole mountain and prize versatility, look for an all-mountain ski, from 91-114mm wide.
• For deep or soft powder purists, opt for a ski that’s 115mm or more wide.

Find your preferred ski length

• As a general rule, your skis should reach between your chin and the top of your head.

• Length also depends on your height, weight, ability level, skiing style and terrain preferences.

Choose a fabric type 

• Wool: Stays warm when wet, resists odor and wicks moisture

• Synthetic (nylon, polyester or acrylic): Ideal for sensitive skin, trap warmth and wick moisture. 

How much cushioning do you want?  

• No cushioning: Best for tighter-fitting performance boots that have a tighter fit or maximum ground feel

• Light cushioning: Shin padding with minimal cushioning on the balls of the feet, often with reinforced toes and heels 

• Medium cushioning: Added padding for warmth and impact absorption; ideal for cold conditions or looser-fitting boots 

Length 

• Knee high: Most socks for skiing and snowboarding go up to the knees to help protect from shin bang

• Crew: Cross-country skiers and snowshoers may prefer shorter hiking socks