5 tips on preparing your boots for ski season

As the ski season approaches, you're in the starting blocks and ready to hit the slopes, but is your equipment just as good?

Your pair of ski boots is the most important element of your equipment. Make sure it is in perfect condition before the start of the season. Following these steps will guarantee you a ride in better conditions, with more comfort and performance.

Here are 5 questions to ask yourself to prepare your ski boots for the upcoming season.

1. What is the general condition of my ski boots?

First of all, check the general and external condition of the boot: buckles and wear pads.

Make a visual inspection: check if the ends of the shoe (toe and heel lip) are not worn too much. The way your shoe fits into the binding could be impacted.

By the way, it is equally important to ensure that the bindings are properly adjusted. A defective or improperly adjusted ski binding can cause serious injury.

Check these particular parts, not forgetting the part of the heel

2. Are there areas of discomfort or pressure points in my shoes?

It may have been a few months or even a year since you last wore your ski boots. Your feet are no longer used to them. How to be certain they will be enjoying the ride?

Don’t get surprised by the discomfort or the cold. Try your shoes at home several times to re-adjust your foot: for half an hour in flexion and sitting.

If you feel pain or have any doubts, contact a specialist. They can advise you so that your boots won’t spoil your first day of skiing.

Find the list of all our specialists: HERE

3. Are my shoes wet?

A pair of well-maintained ski boots is key to spending a beautiful day on the slopes. It begins and ends with warm, clean, and dry feet, socks, and shoes.

The simplest method is to take out your liner and dry it every night near a radiator. Nevertheless, this can be time-consuming and tedious.

Remember these two keywords: clean and dry. If you have moisture problems in your shoes, you can use a shoe dryer—a fast and healthy solution!

The Dry Warmer optimizes the circulation of hot air in your shoes and speeds up the drying time. Equipped with ultraviolet lamps, it has a sanitizing antibacterial action.

It’s ideal for small spaces and for fast and healthy drying, perfect when you go skiing every day or want to dry your boots during a lunch break.

Be careful not to dry your equipment behind a window in the sun. UV can cause premature wear of materials.

Drywarmer PRO USB

4. Are my insoles still in good condition?

Insoles wear out over time due to the frequency of use and the weight exerted on them. The older they are, the less they support your arch, which can lead to premature fatigue. It is strongly advised to check their condition. Are they deformed or damaged?

The lifespan of an insole is around 120 days of skiing, but it also depends on your level and the fluidity of your movements.

The advantages of having insoles in good condition are numerous: comfort, even distribution of support, heel control, arch support… pretty awesome, right?

If you rent your equipment, don’t hesitate to replace the sockliner with a custom insole adapted to your foot. Test it before using it in action to avoid surprises during your ride!

The Winter 3D insoles are suitable for all winter sports. They provide comfort and ideal support for your feet.

Winter 3D

5. Are my shoes in good condition?

Check that no critters have nestled in your boots while you were away—mice love the foam! If you find that your ski boot is punctured in some places or simply old, renew your liner.

SIDAS offers two technologies to meet your needs:

• Thermoformed liner: for more comfort. Highly recommended for ski touring because it’s lighter and more insulating.
• Injected liner with foot mold and PU foam injection: for the most dedicated skiers. Perfect for downhill skiing, providing both comfort and performance.

If you want to ski in the best conditions, check out SIDAS ski boot liners, which are adapted to the morphology of your feet, offering custom comfort.

Find all of our liners HERE

To end the season in style

Once your stay is over, follow a simple ritual to keep your ski boots in good condition. Remove the liners from the shells and let them dry, ideally for 2 to 3 days. Close the buckles to maintain their shape.

Once inspected, store your boots in a clean, dry bag and place them in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas exposed to pests and moisture, such as the attic or garage.

Ski hard. Take care. Have fun!