Ski boots
Features and benefits
Ski boots are one of the most important components of a skier, because they provide comfort for the legs and help protect them from cold weather. On the modern market a large number of ski boots are presented, which differ in shape, color and other points.
Among the distinctive advantages of such shoes, which qualitatively distinguish it against the background of other varieties, we can single out the following:
- Operation in severe weather conditions. In the production process of ski boots, only high-quality materials are used, which ensure the strength and durability of the product even with active use;
- Exposure to high loads. These shoes are designed to be constantly in use in harsh conditions. Strong and sturdy shoes do an excellent job with mechanical stress and damage;
- High level of comfort and hygiene. Despite their density and durability, ski boots are a breathable product, in which the legs will be comfortable in any weather;
- Snow protection. The unique shape of the boots ensures maximum protection even in the most snow-covered regions.
Kinds
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country ski boots are distinguished by their height and the presence of a hard cuff, which is used to fix the legs. The fact is that the skiing load on the legs is significantly increased, so there is a risk of damage to the legs, and the cuff allows you to minimize it. Shoes for cross-country skiing are mainly used laces.
Sets with sticks
Sets with sticks are suitable for beginners who do not yet have their own professional equipment. These boots have a high level of comfort and are perfectly combined with sticks.
Velcro
Velcro ski boots are extremely popular for their convenience. A minimum amount of time is spent on putting on and taking off such shoes. In addition, it can be done even with gloves, which is very important in cold weather. Some models of ski boots are equipped with special velcro, which allow you to adjust the degree of compression of shoes, so that each person can choose the best option.
Combined
There are serious requirements for combo shoes. They are mainly used by experienced tourists or professional climbers. Such sports footwear can be used both for skiing, and for the pedestrian transition. The main material used is genuine leather with special artificial inserts, which ensures an optimal microclimate for the legs. Precisely because of this, the combined ski boots are distinguished by reliability, durability and resistance to impact;
Sliding
Sliding ski boots are usually bought for children whose feet grow tirelessly. A distinctive feature of such products is that they allow you to adjust the size, so that they are easily put on and removed.
With two braces
A distinctive feature of the ski boots with two straps is that they provide maximum protection of the ankle. In such shoes you can not be afraid to dislocate your leg or get hurt.
Racing
Racing ski boots - the choice of professional athletes.These shoes are made of high-tech synthetic materials, which ensures their durability, and also allows you to exactly repeat the shape of the athlete's foot. The main task of racing shoes is to not limit movements.
Heated
Heated ski boots are great for long walks through snowy terrain. In such shoes, feet will always be warm and comfortable.
Expeditionary
Expedition ski boots are known for their high quality and reliability. They are designed for long hikes in the snow-covered area, therefore, able to withstand enormous loads. Due to the fact that in the production process of such shoes artificial and natural materials are used, it can serve for many years and perfectly cope with the blows.
Colors
The most popular color of ski boots is white. That it allows you to create the most harmonious image that will appeal to anyone. In addition, black and brown shoes are popular today. Ladies who like to be in the spotlight can choose red ski boots: they attract the attention of others.
Materials
Modern textile industry offers a huge amount of materials that can be used for the production of ski boots. Modern ski footwear is a high-tech material that must cope with any weather conditions, heavy loads, while ensuring an adequate level of comfort.
For the production of most models used synthetic materials that are of high strength and reliability. In addition, such products allow the feet to breathe and create an ideal microclimate.
Leather ski boots are a bit more expensive, but they boast durability and a more prestigious appearance. Due to the fact that leather can wear out, ski boots take the form of legs and thus guarantee unsurpassed comfort.
How to choose and determine the size
In the process of choosing a ski boot should pay attention primarily to the size of the shoes. In no case can not buy shoes without trying them on and not walking for a few minutes. Try on them with socks: it is best if they are wool options that are not too thin. Thanks to this, it will be possible to make sure that ski boots are not too tight and comfortable in them.
If you plan to engage in this sport at a professional level, then immediately it is better to give preference to specialized options. They are made from high-tech materials and by their strength are significantly superior to products made of genuine leather. That is why such shoes boast durability and ability to withstand enormous loads.
People who already have enough experience in skiing, it is best to give preference to shoes for sports tourism, which are usually a combination of options and have a removable cuff. This ensures their strength and resistance to impact.
As for the stiffness of the ski boots, it must be adjusted so that the shoes sit comfortably on their feet and do not restrain their movements.
What to wear
Ski boots are a specific type of sports shoes that must be worn with appropriate clothing. The ideal option for the combination would be a sporty ski suit, which not only looks great, but can protect from the cold. It should be noted that the color solution here is not important. For example, white ski suits will be perfectly combined with boots of any color.
In order for ski boots to look beautiful and to provide the necessary comfort, you need to choose the right socks.One of the most popular options are alpine ski socks, which have an attractive appearance and guarantee reliable protection from the cold. Due to the fact that for the production of such socks are used only high-quality and natural materials, they can boast convenience and warmth.
Learn to fix properly
In order to feel as comfortable as possible in ski boots while practicing this winter sport, it is necessary to be able to fasten them correctly and securely. This is a guarantee of not only comfort, but also safety in the process of skiing.
First of all, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that modern cross-country ski boots can be equipped with different types of fastening, so it should completely coincide with that on the skis themselves. For example, if skis differ in front fastening, then such boots will be equipped with a prominent toe. Pins on ski boots should be attached to the skis as firmly as possible so that when moving the foot does not dangle or change the trajectory of the skis.
A distinctive advantage of front-mounted skis is that they are great for any ski boot, regardless of their size. The latest innovations in ski boots and cross-country skis boast an innovative fastening system that can be automatic and mechanical. Automatic is preferable because they are securely closed without the intervention of the athlete.
In the presence of mechanical fasteners, you will need to carry out all manipulations yourself. Mounts need to be moved in such a way as to get the most optimal size for the foot. Cross-country skis with mechanical fasteners are not available for children: here are the best options with special fasteners.
The basic rule of fastening is that the shoe should sit as firmly as possible on the foot so that there is no discomfort. If they press too hard, the legs will begin to freeze, and the walk will not bring any pleasure.
The subtleties of shoe care
Despite the fact that ski boots are notable for their increased durability, they should be closely monitored and looked after. First of all, it refers to the inner soft part of the shoe.
In the process of skiing in the ski boots moisture is formed, from which you need to get rid of in a timely manner. After each use, you must dry your shoes, but use hot batteries or other similar heat source for this purpose. This can ruin a shoe, especially if it is thermoformed.
If moisture is felt in the inner part of the ski boot, then you need to put a crumpled newspaper in there that can absorb all the moisture during the night. After active workouts or long walks, it is best to disinfect your shoes with a special spray.
Most people make the mistake of using ski boots for other purposes. They can not walk on asphalt or any hard surface, as they quickly wear out and become unusable.
It is necessary to clean the internal block of ski boots with the help of a brush manually. Shoes should be dried in such a way that they do not fall into the sun.
How to distribute
Of course, it would be ideal if the ski boots were immediately matched to the correct foot size and did not bring any discomfort. If they put a little pressure on the leg, then you can try to carry them. It should be noted that this can only be done if leather has been used for the manufacture of shoes. It is impossible to stretch synthetic materials in standard ways, so stretching such shoes will not work.
Leather products stretch perfectly when heated, so you can try to hold ski boots near the battery, without bringing too fast. After the shoes have become warm and the skin has softened a bit, you should wear boots and visit them for a while.This will allow the skin to stretch, and shoes - to become more comfortable.
How much are
The cost of ski boots depends on many factors, among which are the brand, the material of manufacture, the presence of additional properties and color scheme. Leather products are a bit more expensive than the options for the production of which used synthetic options.
The simplest ski boots will cost the owner 2-3 thousand rubles, but professional options for such shoes cost from 10 thousand rubles. For lovers and novice athletes, ordinary ski boots will be enough, but experienced skiers and climbers can choose more reliable options.
Brand news
Decathlon, Trek (Track), Marax
Decathlon offers to purchase many varieties of ski boots, which differ in cost, manufacturing material and other points. Trek and Marax ski boots are considered one of the most optimal for inexperienced athletes and tourists.
Rossignol
The company Rossignol offers a large range of ski boots, which were made not only from natural but also from high-tech synthetic materials. In the catalog you can find boots for professional skiers and climbers.
Mapetti
Marpetti is a recognized manufacturer of quality cross-country ski boots. In the assortment of the manufacturer you can find excellent children's options.
Isg
The ISG ski boots are designed for sport riding and boast innovative mounts.
Larsen
Larsen company offers a wide range of ski boots that will suit any person. The manufacturer has the largest collection of children's shoes for skiing.
Botas
Botas ski boots can provide an unsurpassed level of comfort and protect your feet from cold weather. Large assortment will allow each person to choose the best option.
Next
The company Next offers hiking shoes for outdoor activities with a variety of fasteners, the presence of the substrate and additional clamps.
Karjala
Karjal ski boots are famous for their sole, which is characterized by incredible strength and softness. Some models of Karjal shoes can boast a double sole system, which is designed to guarantee the durability of shoes.
Stylish images
Creating a stylish image with the help of ski boots is quite simple. These shoes are perfectly combined with any kind of ski suit, to which you can choose a hat that matches the color. Goggles can be used as an accessory.