Having just completed a quick ski tour up to 10k in Avalanche Gulch on Mt Shasta, I thought it timely to address the issue of finding the right backcountry ski boot (the spring-like conditions were phenomenal by the way!!). Choosing the right backcountry ski boot is one of the most critical decisions you will make when putting together your backcountry equipment for touring. Unlike resort ski boots, backcountry boots must balance uphill comfort, downhill performance, and weight. Here are the key factors I look for when I’m in the market for a pair of boots. Before I get into this though, I want to really emphasize that nothing, absolutely nothing, beats having a good boot fitter help you with fitting a pair of ski boots. I also highly recommend getting a custom made footbed. The Fifth Season in Mt Shasta is one of the best Mountaineering/Outdoor/Ski shops in California and their boot fitter, Jesse, does a remarkable job. Enough said (well maybe😊)!!
1. Prioritize Fit First
In my mind fit matters more than any other feature. A boot thatis uncomfortable on a long tour will ruin your day quickly and on a multi-day tour this is only amplified! Your toes should lightly touch the front when standing straight and pull slightly back when you flex forward. Make sure you test this both in Walk Mode and Ski Mode. The heel should stay locked in place to prevent blisters on the climb.
Always try the boots on with the socks you tour in and spend time walking around the shop. Small pressure points can become major problems after several miles of skinning. Personally, I am very partial to mid-weight ski socks instead of the light-weight ones that many skiers use. Lately I have been using the toe ski socks that Injinji makes but I also like the Darn Tough mid-weights as well.
2. Match the Boot to Your Ski Style
Backcountry ski boots basically fall into 3 categories:
• Lightweight touring/mountaineering boots – best for long missions, big vertical days, and ski mountaineering. These boots typically only have 1-2 buckles, are very lightweight, and have a great walk mode. They typically do not have a very progressive flex like most of your typical downhill ski boots. These types of boots can only be used with a backcountry binding; they are not usable in an alpine style binding. I generally do not recommend this type of boot unless you are an expert skier who can ski variable conditions, like the snow you will always find on a mountain like Mt Shasta. The Technica Zero G Peak would be an example of this type of boot.
• Midweight backcountry boots – a balance between uphill efficiency and downhill power. This will be your standard backcountry boot with 3-4 buckles, a good walk mode, and a Vibram sole that is typically NOT compatible with alpine bindings; you must use backcountry bindings. These boots are heavier, but their downhill performance is better. Good examples of these types of boots are the Scarpa Maestraleand Dynafit Radical Pro.
• Side-country/freeride boots – heavier but offer better downhill performance for aggressive skiing. This category of boot has a grip to walk sole which means they can be used in alpine bindings as well as backcountry bindings. These are the boots I find myself using most often. While their walk mode is not ideal, this is more than made up for by how well they ski downhill! Good examples of these boots are Dynafit Tygard, Nordica LT, and my favorite the Lange XT3.
3. Weight vs. Performance
Although lighter boots will make the climb easier, they will always sacrifice stiffness and power. Heavier boots ski more like alpine boots but can slow you down on long approaches,especially if your approaches are long flats or rolling terrain. On a mountain like Mt Shasta, the approaches are very short and you are going uphill right out of the trailhead, so I am willing to use a heavier boot with better downhill performance. Many skiers prefer a middle-ground boot that performs well in both directions.
4. Walk Mode and Range of Motion
A good backcountry ski boot should have a good range of motion in walk mode. More mobility means a more natural stride and less fatigue on the climb, which is really important on a long summit day or multi-day tour. Another thing to look for ishow easily the boot switches between walk and ski mode.
5. Compatibility with Bindings
If you already have backcountry skis, make sure the boot works with your binding system. Most of the newer backcountry skiboots are compatible with both tech bindings and frame bindings. If you use hybrid or frame bindings, confirm compatibility before buying.
6. Try Before You Commit
If you ski at a ski area, it is quite possible that they might have a demo weekend where local ski shops bring up their demo fleets,including boots for folks to try out. If that is not possible, many ski shops do have demo boots for rent. As I said earlier, I highly advise eliciting the help of a good boot fitter when trying on backcountry ski boots. Even boots from respected brands can feel very different depending on your foot shape.
Final Thoughts
The best backcountry ski boot for you is not the lightest or the stiffest—it will be the boot that fits well, matches your touring style, and keeps you comfortable for long days in the mountains. Again – find a good Ski Shop with a good boot fitter like Jesse at The Fifth Season and take the time to try several options. Don’t let yourself be lulled into the newest and greatest boot if it doesn’t feel right! Your future tours will be much more enjoyable if you go with a boot that fits fantastic! See you on the mountain! 🎿
Written By David Cressman