Boots

Buy ski shoes online at Sport Conrad

Skiing is more than just a sport - it is a passion that makes your heart beat faster. To get the most out of your skiing experience, choosing the right equipment is crucial. In addition to the skis themselves, the ski boots also play a central role and should therefore be chosen with the utmost care. At Sport Conrad, you will find a wide selection of ski boots from renowned manufacturers, so that you can enjoy your runs to the full and ensure maximum safety. No matter if you are looking for the thrill of alpine skiing or the freedom of freeriding - at Sport Conrad you will find the perfect ski boots for your personal adventure in the snow.

What are ski boots?

Ski boots act as the link between your feet and your skis. These specially designed shoes give you stability and control on the slopes and have a huge impact on your performance on the board. There is no question: You cannot ski without the right boots. Despite potential discomfort and a period of adjustment, they are an essential part of the sport.

What is the function of ski boots?

In addition to their function as a link between your feet and the skis, ski boots also provide optimal power transmission by effectively transferring the force of your upper body and legs to the skis. This allows you to precisely control and steer your skis. In addition, the design of ski boots provides important protection against shin and ankle injuries, which is especially important in a fast and dynamic sport like skiing.

What is Flex?

Whether you're a beginner ready for your first pair of boots or just in need of a new pair, you're bound to come across the term "flex" or "flex value". Understanding what flex means and how it works is critical to finding the right boots for you.

Flex refers to the stiffness of a ski boot. This stiffness represents the resistance the boot provides as you move forward during skiing. In general, the higher the flex, the stiffer and less flexible the boot.

Flex values range from 60 to 140 and are categorized as soft, medium, and hard. A flex value of 60 corresponds to a particularly soft flex, while 140 corresponds to a particularly hard flex. This directly affects the transfer of power when skiing—the higher the flex, the more efficient the transfer of power to the ski.

Choosing the right flex rating depends on your gender and skill level. A beginner usually needs a different flex than an experienced pro skier. If you're unsure, you can use the following guide:

Women:

• Beginners and occasional riders: Flex from 60 to 90

• Regular riders: Flex from 90 to 110

• Experienced skiers: Flex from 110 to 120

• Performance athletes: 130 and above

Men:

• Beginners and occasional riders: Flex from 70 to 90

• Regular riders: Flex from 90 to 120

• Professional skiers and men with a large build: Flex from 120 to 130

• Performance athletes: 140 and above

Does every manufacturer have the same flex rating?

No, the flex index is not standardized, meaning there can be differences from one manufacturer to another. Even with the same flex ratings, shoes can vary in stiffness or softness depending on the brand. Therefore, it's essential to try out different models to find the optimal flex rating for you. Consider factors such as your weight, body structure, and individual skiing technique to determine the appropriate flex rating for your needs.

A ski boot for every occasion: Types of different ski boots

Ski boots come in various designs, and which one suits you depends on your skiing style. However, it's important to note that there's no standardized system for categorizing ski boots. This means you may encounter different terms for similar ski boots.

The right ski boots for every style: An overview

Comfort & Recreational Drivers

For relaxed days on the slopes or if you don't yet feel like a pro, ski boots with ample padding and generous freedom of movement are ideal. Additionally, we recommend choosing a ski boot with a low flex. This way, you achieve the optimal balance between minimal power transfer and maximum comfort, allowing you to enjoy your favorite slope to the fullest.

Athletic all-mountain rider

Are you frequently found on the slopes, navigating them with speed and athleticism? In that case, shoes with a firmer outer shell, soft padding, and a medium flex rating (90 to 100) are an excellent choice for you.

For the Racer

If you're aiming to break records and race down the slopes at high speeds, stable race ski boots are your ideal choice. These durable boots boast a stiff outer shell with minimal padding and a flex rating between 110 and 140. These features facilitate remarkable power transmission, ensuring precise control and enabling you to navigate through the terrain at high velocities.

Freeride

Exploring nature off-piste is an extraordinary experience. Without predefined routes, you encounter an unparalleled sense of freedom - but having the right ski boot is essential. For this reason, some manufacturers offer specialized freeride ski boots with a sturdy outer shell and moderate padding. A flex value between 100 and 120 is highly recommended.

Touring

There are various types of ski boots designed for backcountry skiing. These include models tailored for uphill tours, downhill tours, all-rounders, and different modes. For instance, the walking mode allows the upper part of the boot to detach from the lower part, enabling longer strides and faster movement. Whether you prefer versatile boots or downhill-focused ones, touring boots typically feature a rigid shell and minimal padding. Regarding flex, it's advisable for on-piste models to have a flex rating between 120 and 130. The calmer and more leisurely your trips, the lower the flex can be.

Things to consider when buying ski boots

Not only is your performance on the slopes crucial, but also the comfort of your trusted companions. To find the perfect pair of men's or women's ski boots for you, it's essential to know what to look for when making a purchase. In addition to considering the flex and your skiing style, whether it's freestyle or cross-country, there are some fundamental factors to take into account.

The right type of boot

As previously mentioned, it's crucial that your ski boots are a perfect fit for both you and your skiing style. This entails carefully considering the activities you plan to engage in with your boots and the future adventures that await you. Selecting a boot that aligns with your performance level ensures that you maintain optimal control over your skis at all times.

The right size

Just like with any other footwear, the size of your ski boots is crucial for your comfort and performance on the slopes. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that your ski boots aren't too large. It's generally recommended to opt for ski boots that are approximately one size smaller than your regular shoe size. This is because the padding inside the boot compresses over time, causing the boot to expand with use. Starting with a smaller size ensures that your ski boots will maintain a perfect fit even after extended use.

Thorough testing

To ensure that your ski boots are the perfect fit, it's crucial to test them thoroughly. The best approach is to wear your boots with your ski socks on to ensure proper fit. Start by leaving the boot laces loose so that there's slight contact between your toes and the liner. Then, tighten the laces and bend your knees slightly. Ideally, there should be no contact between your toes and the liner, and your toes should naturally shift backward.

It's especially important to check for pressure points in stiff shoes with minimal padding. Wear your ski boots for 20 to 30 minutes to ensure your toes remain secure and that the boots don't cause any painful pressure points.

The right width

When purchasing new ski boots, it's important to consider the width of the footbed, as each foot is unique. The term 'lasts' refers to the molds or templates used by shoemakers to create shoes in various sizes. Lasts determine the length, shape, and width of the shoe. Width is often specified, particularly for ski boots, and indicates the widest part of the boot.

Width options typically include narrow, standard, and wide. Selecting the appropriate width ensures you find a shoe that fits your feet comfortably. Individuals with wide feet should opt for a wider width, while those with narrow feet should choose a narrower width.

The right care for longevity

The key to maximizing the lifespan of your boots is proper care. With regular maintenance, your ski boots can accompany you on countless journeys up and down the mountain.

1. Post-skiing cleaning:

Upon returning from the slopes, it's important to remove any coarse dirt from your ski boots. Use a soft brush or damp cloth for this task.

2. Drying:

After cleaning and before wearing, ensure that your boots are thoroughly dried. Remove the insoles and open the shells to allow them to ventilate. Avoid drying your boots near heat sources such as radiators or heaters, as this can potentially damage the material.

3. Storage:

When your ski boots are not in use, store them in a dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. It's advisable to use a special ski bag for storage. This not only ensures optimal storage but also provides protection against damage.

4. Insoles:

Regularly inspect the insoles of your ski boots and clean them if necessary. Occasionally, you can hand wash them with a mild detergent to eliminate unpleasant odors.

5. Closures and Buckles:

Ensure that the closures and buckles on your ski boots function properly. Periodically clean them with a cloth to remove dirt and debris.

Regular maintenance of your ski boots not only ensures their longevity but also optimizes their performance.

Ski boots & more - at Sport Conrad

Whether you're in the midst of ski season or eagerly anticipating it, Sport Conrad has the perfect ski boots to suit your needs. We offer a wide selection of high-quality brands including Dynafit, Tecnica, Dalbello, Nordica, and many more, providing you with top-notch ski boots.

And if your equipment isn't complete yet, don't worry! Our online shop offers everything you need to complete your ski gear - from skis and the right ski bindings to ski boots. But that's not all - we also have the right equipment for other sports. With Sport Conrad, you're always well-equipped for any outdoor activity!

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