Boots for someone new to skiing

[severine]

I like the custom footbed idea - I have flat arches and any orthotic-style device will make my feet more comfortable. But given the price that may have to wait until later to get dropped in.

You'll probably have to get the custom orthotics sooner rather than later. I, too, have flat feet and have been trying to get away without them all season because of the cost. I learned my lesson on our mini ski vacation last week. It was the first time in a long time my feet hurt, even though I've been skiing with my own boots about 10 times or so now. The vacation would have been a lot more fun if I didn't have to stop for my aching feet so often. Next season I am definitely getting custom orthotics, regardless of the price. Store bought/non-custom may have too much of an arch in them if you have flat feet and that will hurt even more than no support at all.
Good luck! It's nice to have a fellow learner on this site, although you're advancing much faster than I am!

 

[MichaelJ]

Well, I printed out the thread and went shopping this weekend. I went to several places in Conway and North Conway and tried on many different boots. The trick, of course, is that having a common foot size many places had limited stock.

However, the moment I put on this one pair, I knew they were the ones. Perfect fit, perfect comfort. Nordica Easy Move. Incredibly adjustable and a fantastic price. After a long, hard day at Waterville Valley my feet feel great - no bruises, no soreness. They will suit me well for many years to come.

I also found the cheapest skis suitable to my beginning needs that I could find (although I will say that at Waterville Valley they had brand-new skis at 40%-50% off out in the tent this weekend, and I'm sure will again; of course, that was still more money than I wanted to pay, but for the rest of you there were sweet deals to be had). I got a pair of 170cm Atomic Beta V's that had a former life as rentals. They're in good shape but of course have that wacky adjustable binding. Only $179. I can beat these to a pulp and not worry about them.

Woo-hoo! Just in time for ... summer! :x

 

[Greg]

Congrats MichaelJ! I'm sure you will find having your own equipment will make the whole ski experience much better. You can burn 45 minutes or more on the rental process. Great that you got some beater skis to learn on and the new boots is a smart move. Glad we all could help! You may be able to get a few more days in this season. It'll probably be enough to make you drool about skiing all summer!