Boot suggestions...

[haylmom]

Ok, I know that trying on boots is the best way to see what works/fits, however, I still have a few questions. I'd like to trust the people at the shop, but I seem to get differing opinions depending on where I go.

I am an intermediate skier (just got back in this year after quite a few years off)...I have new Rossi Attraxion IIIs. My boots are probably over 10 years old...however, still in decent shape (no cracks, etc). I tried on quite a few pairs of boots one day and most of them seemed to hurt my right ankle....like a pressure point. The one pair that didn't dig in was the Rossi Electra 14. The lady said these are very advanced boots, and would be too stiff for me unless I'm very aggressive.

I am still working on my ski technique as I'm just getting back into it this year, and was initially skiing more on my heels (could feel my calves on my boots through turns)...but have seemed to level out nicely. Its probably best to get new boots now while I'm still perfecting the technique right? Any suggestions?? I ski groomed hills, no jumps or anything, tight turns, fairly fast...etc.

 

[haylmom]

One more thing...

Can anyone explain the flex specs to me? Like when it says the flex is 60/50 or something on the boot?

 

[volklgirl]

IMHO, just ignore the flex spec printed on the boot. Here's why:

1. The flex spec is a subjective number that denotes the "stifness" of a boot and there is no testing standard.
2. Because there is no testing standard, every company measures their flex differently so the number cannot be compared between boot manufacturers.
3. Even within a manufacturer's line, the flex spec cannot always be compared (for example, the Lange WC100 and the Lange Exclusive 100 are NOT the same stiffness due to construction methods and plastics used).
4. The flex spec is NOT indicative of how the plastic material will stiffen up under outdoor tempuratures.

The best way to check proper boot flex for you in the store is to buckle both boots firmly and flex both legs forward into an aggressive ski stance. If the plastic of the lower boot deforms or "squishes out" between the upper cuff and the instep buckleas you flex, the boots are too soft. If you can't easily and smoothly get your knees out past your toes without your heels lifting up or creating pressure points inside the boots, they are too stiff.

 

[haylmom]

Good to know, I thought it might give me some more insight when I am in the store...

They have some Rossignol Blasts in the store that I just tried on, however, i came back to work and looked them up and they are park boots? I do not do jumps and park terrain, so these would not be good for me, right? Or does it really matter? They are comfy boots. The store was packed when I was over there so no one was available to help me, so I'll have to go back later...