Whether you’re a professional athlete or an amateur, the right athletic equipment is essential for peak performance. That’s particularly true when it comes to ski boots. Surefoot in New York, NY, is the manufacturer of the world’s most comfortable ski boots, and they’re also one of the only producers of custom orthotics for skiers. Here, the staff answers one of their most frequently-asked-questions — what’s the difference between men and women’s ski boots?

A Guide to Men’s & Women’s Ski Boots 

Physical Differences in Men & Women

Besides foot size, there are several physical differences between women and men which affect boot fit and function. For one, in proportion to the rest of the body, most women have a longer torso than men. Women’s upper legs are also longer in proportion to the total leg length. Furthermore, female pelvises are typically wider than men’s. 

Women’s feet are also narrower and tend to have lower insteps. If the ski boot isn’t properly designed for a woman’s foot, she may experience discomfort and instability as her foot moves within the boot. Also, women who wear high heels are prone to bunions, which can be very painful in ski boots if they lack proper padding. High heels may also shorten the Achilles tendon and hamstrings, which can lead to heel lift in the boot. 

Effect on Performance

As a female skier flexes forward in her ski boots, her torso and leg length make it more likely that her center of gravity will shift back toward the ski tails. When that happens, it can underweight the ski tips, making it harder to turn and also making the skis feel less stable. 

Her pelvic width means a female skier must shift her pelvis more to maintain a balanced center of gravity as she turns. The increased rotation requires more force than is necessary of a male, making her prone to over-rotation of the hips. Over-rotation can lead to skidded turns as opposed to precise, carved turns.

The shape and width of feet, as well as bunions and other afflictions, can cause female skiers difficulty because of the extreme discomfort. Heel lift and shifting feet within the boot can also make her feel less stable. 

Boot Design 

Until recently, most ski boot manufacturers made women’s ski boots with only slight variations compared to men’s. Today, they’re molded with a woman’s full body anatomy in mind. The cuffs are shorter, and female-specific lasts are designed based on anatomically correct women’s foot shapes to ensure a snug, stable fit.

While ski boot design has evolved significantly over the past several years, the best option for men and women alike is a custom orthotic. Custom footwear is particularly important for athletes because it enhances strength and performance as well as comfort. Surefoot is the leading supplier of custom ski boots and athletic gear. Call (212) 472-7171 or visit their website to learn more.