Downhill Boots

A common mistake people make when buying boots is going for an oversized pair. Many assume that, like shoes, a bigger size will be more comfortable. But, when a boot is too big, you end up having to tighten it more, which can lead to a poorly secured foot.

To avoid this problem, measure your feet before purchasing boots. For adult feet, the general rule is that the boot should be the same length as your foot or at most half a centimetre longer.

Personal preference also plays a role. Beginners may feel more comfortable with slightly roomier boots, while experienced skiers may prefer a tighter fit.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the boots:

• Length – your toes should touch the front of the boot, but you shouldn't have to scrunch them up.

• Height – the sides of the boot should fit snugly around your foot, but not too tight that your little toe gets squished.

• Heel – the heel should be firmly held in place. Some advanced boots have heel grip cushions, which could initially cause some discomfort around the Achilles tendon. This should go away after a few uses.

• The calf – the boot should fit snugly around your calf without being so tight that it cuts off circulation – but not so loose that your leg moves around inside the boot.