Getting the right pair of ski boots will guarantee maximum safety as you enjoy your time on the slopes. Wearing ski boots that are too tight or don’t fit right can cause painful blisters and deprive you of spending the best time of your life. Moreover, these boots will put your bones in an unnatural position that causes strain and discomfort.
However, most people who have feet that are rather on the wide side find it extremely difficult to get boots that actually fit right. They end up settling for boots that are painful when they wear them all day long.
In this article, we’ll explain everything that you need to take into consideration while shopping for the best ski boots for wide feet. We’ll also suggest 5 of the best boots that you can consider for your upcoming skiing trip.
Here are our top picks.
Best Ski Boots for Wide Feet
SALOMON X Access 70 Wide Ski Boots Men’s
These boots are suitable for beginner skiers, having a low flex rating of 70 for recreational skiing. The boots feature an intuitive shell that bends comfortably for the most comfortable moves.
The boots are made of Bi-Material and come with 4 microplastic buckles. These adjusters will allow you to get a precise fit to keep your feet stable while skiing.
There are removable pads on the toes and heels for maximum comfort. These pads will also extend the life of the boots. There’s a calf adjuster that allows you to get the best fit. It also makes the boots more comfortable to walk in, although there’s no walking mode.
Featuring a comfortable liner, these boots won’t strain your feet or cause blisters even if you wear them for long periods. They’re suitable for regular skiing but they’re a bit difficult to put on and take off.
If you have exceptionally large feet, you can go half a size up to make sure that the boots fit right. Their width is about 104 mm.
With an oversized pivot, these boots will deliver excellent precision and energy. This means that less weight and effort are needed to turn and carve. However, these boots won’t suit more experienced users who want to ski on steeper slopes.
Pros
- Suitable for beginners.
- Comfortable liner that provides padding and cushioning.
- Calf adjuster for more comfort.
- Microplastic buckles for a precise fit.
- Oversized pivot for easy turning and carving.
Cons
- A bit difficult to put on and take off.
- Not suitable for experienced users.
Apex Antero Big Mountain Ski Boots
Experienced skiers wouldn’t mind spending the extra cash to get these professional-level ski boots. They feature a 360-degree support thanks to the BOA system that keeps the inner walkable boots more comfortable and practical. The Vibram IceTrek outsole provides better traction on all terrains whether you’re skiing or walking. They have an adjustable flex rating of 115, 125, and 135.
With an external frame and chassis system, these boots feature a unique design that offers three degrees of lateral stiffness. The adjustable flex rating provides more control that allows you to ski with confidence. The frame directly connects to the skis for powerful energy transmission that facilitates skiing on the steepest slopes.
The BOA system has 20 points of closure that can be easily adjusted for the most comfortable fit. The stainless steel cable combines with the BOA reel for a precise fit and custom comfort that accommodates your feet no matter how wide they are. The patented Serpentine lacing pattern is embedded through the tongue and side panels to tighten the boots instead of applying pressure that might make you uncomfortable.
If you’re not interested in a high flex rating, you can find another version that features a lower flex rating. There’s also a special model for women. These boots need a little time to break-in.
Most beginner skiers would be put off by the high price tag. However, if you’re an experienced skier these will definitely be the right ones for you.
Pros
- Stiff ski boots for skiing on the steepest slopes.
- BOA system with 20 points of closure for the most precise fit.
- Adjustable flex rating that allows users to ski and walk comfortably.
- Lateral support to keep your feet comfortable.
- Powerful energy transfer.
Cons
- Boots are expensive compared to other models.
- Not suitable for beginners.
Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boots Men’s
To keep your feet warm, these boots have wool insulation. The foam liner provides excellent padding and cushioning to keep your feet comfortable all day long.
These alpine boots feature a generous fit that suits people with wide feet. They’re easy to put on and take off so they will be suitable for someone using ski boots for the first time. Having a flex rating of 70, these boots will allow you to move comfortably as they’re not too stiff.
Thanks to the Evo feature, these boots have a comfy fit and provide more warmth so you can ski for hours. There’s a 3-buckle design that you can customize so they don’t press on your feet.
The PU soles are replaceable guaranteeing a longer life for your ski boots. The boots are a bit heavy so they will stabilize your feet and provide good traction, especially if you lack the needed confidence that allows you to explore steeper slopes.
You should check the size chart before ordering your pair to make sure that you’re getting the right size. These boots are excellent for a first-timer but they’re not that durable. They don’t suit more experienced users.
Pros
- Flexible ski boots for beginners.
- Generous fit for wide feet.
- Wool liner for better insulation.
- 3-buckle design for a customized fit.
- Replaceable PU soles.
Cons
- The boots aren’t that durable.
- They don’t work for experienced users.
Dalbello Panterra MX 90 Ski Boots
Intermediate-level skiers will love these ski boots as they have a flex-rating of 90. This is enough to give you the support and confidence needed to ski on steep slopes without worrying about tipping over.
These boots are lightweight as they’re made of DB Hyperlite. They won’t weigh you down so you can take your skiing game up a notch for the best experience on more challenging terrains. They feature a TF sport liner that provides adequate cushioning and padding that keeps your feet comfortable while skiing. The liner absorbs shocks to minimize pain and discomfort.
Skiers who have wide feet will find these boots extremely comfortable as they have a last of 103 mm that suits medium to wide feet comfortably. They feature a Velcro strap that can be adjusted for a comfortable fit. The buckle system has 16 closure points that you can adjust for the snuggest fit on all terrains.
If you want to walk, you can activate the grip walk option. This will provide good traction so you can enjoy your time to the maximum.
These boots are heat-moldable so your feet will heat them so they can fit better. The liner will decrease the pressure on your feet, minimize the risk of painful blisters, and improve circulation to keep your feet healthy.
Beginners might find these boots too stiff so you’ll need to have some experience before you can ski comfortably. They take some time to break-in.
Pros
- Lightweight ski boots.
- Suitable for intermediate-level skiers.
- Heat moldable liners to keep your feet comfortable.
- Adjustable fit.
- Walking mode for better traction.
Cons
- Too stiff for beginners.
- They need time to break-in.
SALOMON QST Access 80 Ski Boots Women’s
These alpine boots are specially designed for female skiers who have wide feet as they will provide maximum support and comfort. They feature a slide-in technology that allows you to put the boots in no time.
With a medium flex rating of 80, these boots are perfect for intermediate-level skiers who have some experience with skiing on steep slopes. The Mono Material is used in the shell and cuffs to keep your boots functional for a long time. The boots have a last of 104 mm so they don’t press on your wide feet.
The slide-in liner technology provides extra padding that minimizes discomfort and strain that skiers experience after skiing for long hours. There’s a hike and ride technology that you can activate when you’re done skiing. This will allow you to walk comfortably on slippery surfaces as the boots will deliver the needed traction to keep your feet stable.
Feeling warm is guaranteed thanks to the wool liner. It provides adequate insulation that keeps you comfortable so you can focus on improving your level as a skier. The liner is specifically designed to fit the anatomy of women’s feet to minimize pressure and strain.
You can easily adjust the fit of these boots thanks to the buckle system. This will keep your boots in place and guarantee that they don’t accidentally slip off.
These boots won’t suit a beginner skier who might find them too stiff. They need a break-in period before they feel comfortable, especially if you’ll spend a long time skiing.
Pros
- Designed to accommodate women’s feet.
- Suitable for intermediate-level skiers.
- Slide-in liner for extra padding and cushioning.
- Warm wool liner to minimize discomfort.
- Adjustable buckle system for the perfect fit.
Cons
- Will be too stiff for a beginner skier.
- They need a break-in period.
How to Choose the Best Ski Boots for Wide Feet
Having wide feet means that you’ll probably spend more time trying to find boots that suit your wide feet so they don’t hurt by the end of the day. This becomes extremely critical when you’re skiing because your ski boots will keep your feet supported to protect you from painful injuries. Here are a few factors that you should think about before buying a pair of ski boots for your wide feet.
Type of Boots
There are several types of ski boots available on the market and each one of them is designed for a special purpose.
1. Cross-Country Ski Boots
Cross-country ski boots are the most versatile models because they can be suitable for all types of skiing. They work on various terrains and suit all levels of experience.
These ski boots are less bulky and are lightweight. Skiers find them easy to put on thanks to the lacing system and they’re usually waterproof.
2. Alpine Ski Boots
Alpine ski boots or downhill ski boots are designed for use on resorts where a cable car gets you to the top of a slope and you can slide down. They’re probably the ones you should get it if you’re going on a skiing trip with your friends.
These ski boots work with alpine skis and bindings to secure the heels and toes of your boots at the same time. This is probably the biggest difference between them and other types of ski boots. They usually feature liners that protect the feet from the cold and absorb the vibrations for maximum comfort.
Generally speaking, these boots will have a medium to high flex rating that allows the boots to flex forward slightly. Some models can be engaged in a walking mode for easy walking on the snow.
3. Telemark Ski Boots
These boots look a lot like alpine boots but they have a duckbill-style toe. They’re usually less stiff allowing skiers to make turns.
Moving down a slope requires learning a technique that involves taking a side step and bending the knees. In order to master this technique, these boots usually have a cable system that can be loosened and tightened depending on the terrain.
4. Alpine Touring Ski Boots
These boots combine the features of alpine and telemark ski boots and usually have a touring or walking mode that can be easily activated using a lever. This toggle allows users to move more comfortably on a flat surface when they’re not sliding downhill.
Alpine touring ski boots usually provide good traction on all slippery surfaces when you choose to walk on the snow. Once you disengage the walking mode, the boots will provide more stability when you’re going down the slope.
Flex Rating
This refers to how flexible the boots will feel. Boots come with different flex ratings so you can pick the one that suits your needs. As the number gets higher, the boots will feel stiffer and will be more difficult to flex or bend forward.
Most professional and experienced skiers go for boots that have a high flex rating because they provide maximum support on dangerous slopes where the feet should be protected from all sides. Beginners, however, would feel more comfortable if they choose softer boots. These will be easier to manipulate, especially that they usually don’t plan on going on challenging terrains.
Although there’s no industry standard for flex ratings, most medium-range boots will have a rating between 60 and 80. A soft flex is typically below 85 for men and 75 for women and these boots will feel more comfortable and warm. Controlling your skis might be a bit difficult when you’re using these boots.
A flex rating higher than 80 will transform more energy while skiing. In most cases, medium-flex is between 90 and 110 for men and between 80 and 95 for women. These boots are suitable for intermediate-level skiers who can tackle steeper slopes.
If you’re interested in aggressive carving on more challenging terrains, then you should always look for boots that have a flex rating between 100 and 120. Boots with a flex rating higher than 115 for men and higher than 100 for women are suitable for experienced skiers who aren’t afraid to land difficult jumps. Lightweight skiers will usually face a harder time if they’re skiing using boots that have a high flex rating.
Liners
Most ski boots will come with warm liners that provide maximum comfort and protect your skin from exposure to extremely cold temperatures. There are several types of liners available.
Foam liners use the heat of the body to break-in and provide a custom fit that keeps your feet warm and cushioned. These will break-in after a day or two and will feel better with repeated use.
Non-moldable liners provide comfort padding and more stability for your feet. With repeated use, the lining is likely to become less efficient because of the pressure of the body.
Wrap Up
People who have wide feet should pay special attention to the footwear they pick. When you’re skiing, this becomes more critical as wearing the wrong pair of boots can cause painful and dangerous injuries.
We chose the Apex Ski Boots Antero Big Mountain Ski Boots as the best ski boots for experienced skiers who have wide feet. These stiff boots will provide adequate support so you can ski confidently on the steepest slopes. They won’t cause blisters or pressure that might put you off skiing.
If you’re a beginner skier or find these boots too expensive, we recommend that you take a look at the SALOMON X Access 70 Wide Ski Boots Men’s. They’re affordable and soft so they are suitable for beginner skiers who need flexible ski boots that will keep their feet supported.
Be sure to study the flex rating of the boots to make sure that they fit your experience level for maximum safety and fun while you’re skiing. Luckily, the boots on our list are designed to suit several skiers so you can easily find the best boots for wide feet that work for you.