Ski Boot-Fitted Custom Orthotics Will Have You Skiing At Your BEST
Winter’s coming! Now that we don’t have to worry about the White Walkers (Game of Thrones reference) all that’s left to worry about is how our ski boots fit. You may ask yourself: Well, they fit fine in the past so WHY should I worry about that? It’s simple. Our feet change year to year, so if you want to look and feel your best on the slopes, you have to consider how your boots fit TODAY and the need for boot-fitted custom orthotics.
The footbeds in ski boots are inside the liner and unfortunately offer no support because they don’t contour the foot. This is a problem when the feet tilt from side to side inside the boot while you’re skiing. This is why you need our boot-fitted custom orthotics. We use a specialized gait analysis scanner to assess the foot in static and dynamic motion to create an insert that is thin enough to fit a skier with any expertise. Not only do the custom inserts contour to your feet, they prevent many problems that can occur from improperly fitted boots, such as toe trauma, neuritis or inflammation of the nerve roots from tight fitted boots, and even knee/patella and hip pain. Here at Step Up Footcare, Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a fellow skier and Tribeca’s top Podiatrist, treats NYC skiers for all of these problems and more. Prevent them before they happen to you.
Now that you have realized that custom orthotics are right for you, which they are, here’s where to start:
Never rent ski boots! First of all, it is it not hygienic. Second of all, the inside foam layer is molded to different feet differently so when you rent on the slope, you get to ski in someone else’s molded boot. Yuck!
Go to a ski shop and buy boots according to your level of expertise. The best option for beginner/intermediates is a softer to medium flexing boot and a roomier fit. Intermediate/advanced skiers are those who have been skiing for several seasons already and should look for a medium flexing boot with a more snug fit. Expert skiers should be looking for a boot with a stiff flex and a precise fit allowing full control in a variety of snow conditions.
Nobody likes sweaty and smelly feet after a full day of skiing. Respect your feet AND your ski buddies (if you want them to continue to be your ski buddies). Choose socks made of thin Merino wool or a wicking synthetic material. Avoid cotton socks that absorbs sweat and odor and spreads it around the room. Yuck times two!
Finally, you are ready to enjoy the great winter outdoors to the fullest. All you need is to come see me for your custom orthotics! And a tall glass of hot cocoa. Cheers!
