How to choose the right size of snow boot

How to choose your après-ski boot size?

Preparing for your next holiday in the mountains? Decathlon explains how to choose the right size of snow boot for optimal comfort this winter!

Warm boots are essential for all your winter sports activities, and après-ski boots provide you with a pair of insulating footwear suited to the mountains during the winter season. Whatever your sporting pastimes, you'll usually need to buy après-ski boots for your comfort when you're in the resort. However, this particular type of footwear doesn't always let you simply define your après-ski boot size or the model to choose for the equipment you want. Decathlon cares about your well-being and your enjoyment of the great outdoors this winter, and has put together a detailed guide to help you choose the right après-ski boot size and compare the models available to you.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

Essential comfort in the mountains

In the mountains, if the environment transports you and enchants you with immaculate landscapes during the winter period, then the snow and ice force you to find robust and insulating footwear to protect your feet from the cold. Whether it's a short trip or a long hike, it's essential that you can keep your feet dry and warm in all your sporting activities.

Choosing a kid's or adult après-ski means you can enjoy a pair of technical boots designed to give you optimum stability and comfort during your walks. You'll feel more confident with every step you take, so you can make the most of your holiday and discover or rediscover the mountains in the most beautiful way.

How to choose the right après-ski boot size?

As with all your other footwear, the size of your après-ski boots is essential. If they're too small, your feet will be uncomfortably compressed, causing joint and muscle pain during every walking session. If they're too big, après-ski boots won't guarantee you the stability and insulation you need to move around peacefully in the snow or on the ice. There are a number of criteria to take into account if you want a model that's perfectly suited to your feet.

- Define your shoe size accurately: Although this may seem obvious, it's important to remember that the size you need for comfort also depends on the type of boot you're looking for. An after-ski boot size should allow for the thickness of a warm sock so that they don't feel too tight when you try them on.

To work out your shoe size effectively, we recommend that you measure your feet with your ski socks on. This way, you'll avoid any unpleasant surprises when using your snow boots, as well as any unpleasant discomfort that could spoil the pleasure of your outdoor activities.

- Choose an après-ski size that's right for your foot shape: Size alone is a generic indicator, but it doesn't always mean you feel comfortable in a pair of boots. In fact, your foot has its own morphology that shouldn't be overlooked when choosing your après-ski boot size. Some models have a narrower liner than others, which can cause real discomfort, even though you chose the right size when you bought them.

To make sure that your après-ski boots are the right size to keep out the cold and provide good cushioning, it's a good idea to take the time to try on the models you like. You'll then be able to compare your favourites and choose the pair that best suits your foot shape. Whether you have thin, normal or wide feet, you can choose a smaller or larger size to suit your needs.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

Après-ski boot size: what other criteria should you take into account when choosing your boots?

As well as the size of your après-ski boots, there are a number of other criteria you need to take into account when choosing snow boots.

Here's what you need to know to choose a pair of boots that will meet all your expectations.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

Measure the weight of your après-ski boots

Sturdy, lined snow boots can quickly feel heavy to wear. While this may seem like a minor detail when you're simply putting your boots on after your skiing sessions, it's of the utmost importance if you're going on long hikes.

Depending on your use of après-ski boots, a lightweight pair may be more appropriate for your mountain activities.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

A practical pair of boots

To make sure you get a pair that's practical and easy to put on, you also need to pay attention to the type of fastening offered on the different après-ski boot models. Whether lace-up, zip-up or simply slip-on, you need to define your needs and expectations to make the right choice.

While a pair of après-ski boots that can be slipped on is more comfortable and practical for everyday wear, lace-up or zip-up models give you better support for your feet when walking in the mountains. So you need to choose an après-ski boot that's reliable in all situations.

Choose your ski size: what are the main criteria?

A style to match your personality

Over the years, manufacturers have developed a wide range of snow boots so that your après-ski boots are the right size for you, they are comfortable to wear in the mountains, and they come in a variety of styles.

When it comes to choosing your next pair of après-ski boots, it's equally important to opt for shoes that look just like you and that will represent your personality once you're in the resort, for a style without any false notes. So don't hesitate to compare the materials and shapes of the different models, and treat yourself to après-ski boots that are perfectly suited to your tastes.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

Which pair of après-ski boots for men or women?

Foot shape can vary greatly from one individual to another. By choosing between men's and women's models, you'll be able to find a pair of après-ski boots that's designed for you and more comfortable to wear.

While you shouldn't neglect the criteria of practicality, with a sturdy sole, and aesthetics, with a model you like, the first element of choice remains the size of your après-ski boots. With snow boots available in sizes 3 to 9 for women and sizes 5 to 12 for men, you have a wide choice to find a pair you'll feel good in this winter.

Choose your ski size: what are the main criteria?

Which pair of kid's après-ski boots should I choose?

If you're looking to buy a pair of kid's après-ski boots, it's advisable to choose a model that fully meets their needs. Indeed, the fastening system used for this snow boot takes on a whole new importance for youngsters. Whatever the size, the ideal choice is a model that's easy to put on and take off.

Your son's or daughter's equipment then becomes another excuse to encourage independence with ease. Choose lightweight après-ski boots with a good sole for snowy or icy surfaces, to keep you kid safe with every step.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

Choosing an après-ski boot to suit your activity

On snow or ice, your need for cushioning and grip is not the same. Depending on the activities you're planning during your stay in the mountains, you'll need to choose a pair of après-ski boots that can guarantee you reliable, stable footwear in all situations once you're there.

In the same way, the nature of your activities can influence your choice so that your purchase is tailored to your expectations. A more technical model of après-ski boot is advisable for long winter hikes, while a waterproof pair will suffice for short trips, between your holiday home and the slopes for example.

How to choose the right size of snow boot

How to choose the right après-ski boot size?

Whatever your après-ski boot size, we recommend that you have a fitting when you buy your snow boots. This lets you appreciate the qualities of each model and make sure you have the comfort and support you need for your walking sessions. Our Decathlon team can then guide you with personalised advice through the items in our catalogues and shops.

By taking the time to compare the après-ski boots available, as well as properly assessing your needs, you'll be able to choose a pair with unbeatable value for money. This is your chance to discover the mountains in a different way and keep your feet warm and dry in all circumstances this winter!

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