NOTE: Regardless of what the stickers on the ski boot or ski boot box say, ski boots are only available in full-size increments. This means that a size 28 and 28.5 ski boot have the same liner and shell. Manufacturers may include a "size adjuster" shim that can be placed between the shell of the boot and the liner to reduce the overall volume, but this is not always the case. Some kids' boots also have adjusters on the outer shell to shorten or length the shell of the boot (an awesome feature for growing kids!). The above chart is a good starting point to determine your size, but remember that all manufacturers and boot models vary and each has its fit profile. If you can try a boot on in person before buying, please consider doing that!

What is Mondopoint Sizing? And why are ski boots sized this way?

Developed by ski boot manufacturers to create a universal sizing system, Mondopoint (aka Mondo) is simply the length of your foot in centimeters. The above chart is a conversion for Mondopoint in a comfortable fit, but if you're an expert skier looking for greater control with a ski boot that fits more snuggly, we recommend sizing down one full Mondopoint size (i.e. if you wear a men's size 9 US shoe but want a performance fit ski boot, look for a 26 or 26.5 ski boot). 

What about ski boot last (aka width)?

Ski boot manufacturers offer ski boots with a "last" or width that ranges from 96mm to 106mm. This is the measurement of the inside of the ski boot at the widest point of the forefoot area. Many of the ski boots that we sell tend to be either medium or wide width as this is most comfortable for the greatest number of people. With the used ski boots that we sell, we often don't know what the width is, but if you know that you have a really wide foot or narrow foot, then please send us an email at [email protected] and we can make some recommendations for you! 

• Narrow Width = 96mm to 99mm
• Medium Width = 100mm to 101mm
• Wide Width = 102mm to 106mm 

If you can stop into our retail shop in Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain Ski & Sport, or stop into your local shop that sells ski boots, it's always better to try on a few different-width ski boots to find what feels best to your foot shape! 

What is ski boot flex (aka stiffness)? Why would I need a ski boot with a high flex rating?

Ski boot manufacturers assign a number to a boot that conveys how stiff that boot is when it's flexed forward. The higher the number, the less flex that the ski boot will have. A ski boot with a high flex rating will transmit a better ski "feel" which will help with initiating and carving turns, as well as offering better stability at higher speeds. A lower flex rating will offer more cushioning in choppy snow conditions and also tends to be more comfortable against your shin since the boot will give more. We recommend beginners to start with a lower flex rating as this will be more comfortable, and as you start to gain more confidence, then you may want to seek out a ski boot that gives you better performance to match your skill level.  

A stiff boot is often better for more experienced skiers or those weighing above average. The flex rating is determined by the ski boot manufacturer (there is no industry standard for this rating), so it's always best to try on a boot to ensure it feels right for you. 

My kids keep outgrowing their ski boots! What can I do?

We understand that they grow up quickly - and ski gear isn't cheap if you have to keep buying new stuff every year or two! Below are a few options that we recommend considering to keep these costs low:

• OPTION 1: Consider signing up for our Junior Trade-up Program! This program reduces your expenses each year and keeps your child in properly fitting gear. Here's how it works: Purchase kid's skis + kids' boots this year, and return them to us at the end of the season to receive a 50% credit of your original purchase price that can be applied to any new or used kids ski gear on our website for the following season! Click here to learn more. If you're in Colorado Springs, this is even easier as you can stop by our shop, Rocky Mountain Ski & Sport, to receive the same deal but without the hassle of shipping.  
• OPTION 2: Buy used and resell on your own once your child has outgrown their gear! We recommend that every parent consider buying used gear for their kids. This will save you 40-80% off the retail price. There are great markets out there for selling used kids' ski gear from SidelineSwap.com to Facebook Marketplace. That said, if you don't want to mess with reselling, we will buy your gear back from you, so reach out to us for more info!

One other tip when buying gear for kids is to look for ski boots that have an adjustable shell. This style boot will typically offer 2-3 size adjustments so that as your kid's foot grows, you can adjust the shell to make it fit better. The liners also stretch more to accommodate the range of sizes that the boot shell can be adjusted to. Roces and a few other ski boot brands offer these types of boots, but they do come with a higher upfront cost. Additionally, this style of ski boot also tends to be better suited for beginner to intermediate skiers, so if your kid is ripping down the double black diamond expert runs, it's probably best to go with a traditional boot that doesn't have an adjustable shell.