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Touring skis come in different styles and designs, and ski boots can be similarly different. What’s more, there are clear differences in terms of weight, flexibility and downhill performance. All-round models offer an ideal middle ground between comfortable uphill and solid downhill performance. Freeriders go for more stable versions with good power transmission. And all those who want to climb the mountain peak in no time at all choose models with reduced weight and a low shaft height.
On this page, you’ll find out what features ski touring boots have and how to choose the right size – including practical care tips!
One look – and your search begins. But one look is not enough to see the differences between a ski touring boot and a standard alpine ski boot. When you look at them more closely or even touch them, you’ll quickly notice: Ski tourers have significantly less weight on their feet than alpine skiers – an important factor in terms of uphill comfort. Equally important: the increased flexibility that ski touring boots offer.
The soles are different as well – they’re much grippier. This is especially important for ski mountaineering. On high alpine tours, it may well be the case that rocky passages are part of the route, and they have to be mastered without skis.
Ski touring boots usually consist of two parts: More specifically, the liners can be removed from the outer shells, which is advantageous for ventilation.
Small details matter
High-quality ski touring boots are characterised by the following features, among others:
Ski touring boot models can be divided into three categories. The deciding factor is the type of tours you’re planning to go on and whether your focus is more on the ascent or the descent.
With a light weight, high shaft rotation and optimal power transmission, all-round models make touring a rewarding experience on most routes. The use of the BOA system (dial with steel cable in the forefoot area) saves weight without reducing the necessary hold.
Freetouring boots are the boots of choice when it comes to downhill skiing. Steep slopes with jumps require stable footwear with a high degree of power transmission. Compared to the all-rounders, these models are significantly heavier and thus require more strength and stamina, especially on long ascents.
Those who want to reach the summit as quickly as possible opt for the speed version. Thanks to their low weight and low shaft height with only one or two buckles, these boot models are designed for maximum comfort on the uphill. The use of carbon components helps to save weight.
Where does the shoe pinch? Hopefully nowhere when it comes to your ski touring boots. With the help of the Mondopoint system, you can quickly find the right size. This shoe size system is used especially in the ski boot sector. Foot length is measured in centimetres. In other words: a touring ski boot with 27.5 Mondopoint fits feet with a length of 27.5 centimetres.
All you have to do is measure your foot length, and you can find out your boot size. To do this, place your foot on a piece of paper and run a pencil around it. Use a ruler to measure the distance between the heel and the longest toe and add 1.5 centimetres. NB: The allowance for toe clearance can vary depending on the boots’ intended use (mountain, running or climbing shoe)
If you’re between sizes, opt for the slightly larger Mondopoint size. Ski touring boots are usually offered in increments of 0.5. For instance, if your foot length is 25.3 centimetres (including toe clearance), you should choose a size 25.5.
In contrast to Mondopoint, Euro and UK shoe sizes are not standardised. Conversion tables offer a rough guideline to choose the right size. To be on the safe side, you should always check the specifications of the manufacturer.
Mondopoint | Euro size | UK size |
---|---|---|
22 | 34,7 | 2–2,5 |
22,5 | 35,7 | 2,5–3 |
23 | 36,3 | 3,5 |
23,5 | 37,0 | 4 |
24 | 38,0 | 4,5 |
24,5 | 38,7 | 5 |
25 | 39,0 | 5,5–6 |
25,5 | 40,3 | 6–6,5 |
26 | 41,0 | 7 |
26,5 | 41,7 | 7,5 |
27 | 42,3 | 8 |
27,5 | 43,0 | 8,5–9 |
28 | 44,0 | 9–9,5 |
28,5 | 44,7 | 10 |
29 | 45,3 | 10,5 |
30,5 | 46,3 | 11 |
30 | 47,0 | 11,5–12 |
31,5 | 47,7 | 12–12,5 |
31 | 48,0 | 13 |
32,5 | 49,3 | 13,5 |
32 | 49,7 | 14 |
Regular care is important to keep your boots in tip-top shape for as long as possible. Just follow these tips:
Once or twice a season, it can be a good idea to wash the liners. Important: Check the manufacturer’s instructions on whether you’re supposed to wash the liners. Even if the answer is yes, do not put them in the washing machine, otherwise they may shrink or lose their shape. Instead, wash them carefully by hand – with functional detergent and water at a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius.
Do you want to see for yourself how the various models differ from each other and try them on at the shop? You're more than welcome to! At INTERSPORT Rent, you can rent and test a variety of high-quality ski touring boots. The best part: Our more than 800 INTERSPORT Rent shops are located directly in the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe and Canada.