Ski Boots and Bindings

Boots are vitally important to the skiing experience and performance. Getting boots that fit your feet perfectly gives you better control of your skis and will feel comfortable, allowing you to ski longer and better. Boots that are too tight will feel uncomfortable after just a few runs. Boots that are too loose can mean less control of the skis as well as abrasions on your feet.

Bootfitting can also be done at an increased price to customize a boot to specifically fit your feet. Experienced skiers, especially those in competitive skiing, choose this option, finding that boots purchased off the shelf just don't provide a perfect fit.

Ski bindings absorb shock, and reduce the resulting fatigue. Bindings are made up of a toe and heel piece. In a crash, the toe releases sideways and sometimes upwards, while the heel releases upward.

Brakes are attached to bindings, under the boots. When boots are in the bindings, the prongs line up out of the way along the ski sides. When the binding is released in a fall, the prongs flip down and catch the snow to help stop the ski from traveling too far away.

As with skis, bindings vary by skill level as well. Competitive skiers will want a higher release setting. Lightweight bomber bindings made with performance metals such as titanium are designed to perform at high speeds and on steep terrain. Skis, boots and bindings work in unison, and a good pair of bindings can even help you ski better.