If you enjoy skiing, you know the importance of choosing a high-quality ski boot. Ski boots are what will connect you to your skis; they will also help you maintain control and direction as you hit the slopes.
We have reviewed dozens of ski boots to find the absolute best to recommend to you. Our search focused on fit, performance, construction, and style. When choosing a pair of ski boots, it is important that you know which criteria are most important to you and make your decision from there. With that being said, we have brought you what we think are the best of the best! Be sure to check out our lists of the best cross-country skis and the best ski goggles to get all the essential gear for your next ski adventure.
The Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boot 2016 came out as the clear winner among all of the ski boots we looked at. It is easy to put on and take off, which is important when you just want to take off on the slopes. Those with even the widest feet will find them comfortable, and the padding and insulation will keep your feet warm and dry all day long.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Ski Boots
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boot 2016 | 4.9 |
| Best for Beginners | Nordica Cruise 60 Ski Boots | 4.8 |
| Best for Experts | Tecnica Cochise 120 Ski Boots 2017 | 5.0 |
| Best Alpine Ski Boot | Lange RX 120 Ski Boot 2019 | 5.0 |
| Best Cross-Country Ski Boot | New Whitewoods Adult 301 3 Pin 75mm Nordic Cross Country Ski Boots | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boot 2016
The Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boot 2016 is a great choice if you are either a beginner or well-practiced on the slopes. The triple-buckle design is simple enough for novice fingers and will get you out and having fun in a jiffy. It runs medium to wide throughout the foot and leg, which means you won’t feel uncomfortably snug.
The boot has a flex rating of 70, which is good for intermediate skiers and will encourage beginners to progress. It’s also a great value, making it a popular option for those who are new to skiing or who don’t anticipate hitting the slopes every weekend.
Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boot 2016 Key Features:
- Polyurethane shell and cuff
- Comfort fit liner
- 70 flex rating
- Forefoot width 104 mm
Our Best Beginners’ Pick: Nordica Cruise 60 Ski Boots
Our top pick for beginners is the Nordica Cruise 60 Ski Boots, a medium to wide boot with a high level of soft comfort. The 60 flex rating is particularly forgiving for beginners, and the wide (104 mm) last will be comfortable for most skiers.
The buckles are adjustable and the power strap is velcro, making the Nordica Cruise customizable. They are easy on/ easy off and best for beginning skiers who enjoy downhill skiing. The price is right, too, making them perfect for skiers who aren’t sure that they’ll want to hit the slopes more than occasionally.
Nordica Cruise 60 Ski Boots Key Features:
- Four adjustable buckles
- PFP comfort fit liner
- Last width: 104 mm
Our Best Experts’ Pick: Tecnica Cochise 120 Ski Boots 2017
Expert skiers need stiffer boots, and the Tecnica Cochise 120 Ski Boots 2017 do not disappoint. With a nice, stiff 120 flex rating, these offer some good grip and a medium volume for more versatility. The liner is very soft and the boot has an excellent out-of-the-box fit.
The last is 99 mm, making it slightly snugger than some of the other boots on the market. Still, it’s easy to put on and take off and has a 45 mm power strap to keep it in place. In addition, these boots weigh in at under 11 lbs, making them light on your feet and also easy to carry.
Tecnica Cochise 120 Ski Boots 2017 Key Features:
- Rubber toe and heel panels
- Lightweight Triax-plastic construction
- 45 mm power strap
- 120 flex rating
Best Alpine Ski Boots: Lange RX 120 Ski Boot 2019
The Lange RX 120 Ski Boot 2019 is a classic downhill skier for advanced to expert skiers. With a 120 flex rating, it’s quite stiff, which is great for downhill performance.
The older versions of the Lange RX 120 are very good, but there are some upgrades that make the 2019 version our top pick. The liners contour to the heel and ankle better than last year’s model, which makes the boot more versatile. It also has a better response and rebound, thanks to the new dual core shell construction. This will give expert skiers better control overall.
Lange RX 120 Ski Boot 2019 Key Features:
- Dual core shell construction
- Dual 3D liner
- 120 flex rating
- 4-buckle overlap design
- 100 mm last
Best Cross-Country Ski Boots: New Whitewoods Adult 301 3 Pin 75mm Nordic Cross Country Ski Boots
The New Whitewoods Adult 301 3 Pin 75mm Nordic Cross Country Ski Boots are great for cross-country skiers who like the look and feel of a hiking boot while skiing. These heavy-duty boots will keep your feet warm and provide excellent support.
These boots will work with any 3-pin binding system (note that the bindings are not included). The King Tex fabric is waterproof and windproof but also breathable, so your feet will stay dry and comfortable without overheating.
New Whitewoods Adult 301 3 Pin 75mm Nordic Cross Country Ski Boots Key Features:
- Compatible with any 3-pin binding system
- Improved anatomic footbed
- King Tex fabric
- Quick-dry lining
- Padded ankle
Who Should Buy Ski Boots
If you are a beginning skier, you are probably in the habit of renting ski boots each time you ski. There are, however, benefits to purchasing your own pair of ski boots. First, you’ll save money in the long term because those rental fees do add up, particularly if skiing becomes a hobby and you go often. Secondly, you’ll be assured of a better fit if you choose and buy your own. Instead of having to settle for whatever the resort has available in your size, you’ll be able to try on different pairs and buy the brand that works best with your feet. They won’t have been worn by countless other skiers, so the padding won’t have been tamped down.
Outside of beginners, skiers should purchase new boots when theirs are showing signs of wear. Advanced and expert skiers will also probably want more than one pair so they can match up their boot to the type of terrain they are skiing on. You’ll likely want a higher flex rating (which equals a stiffer boot) as you improve in skill.
Important Features to Consider
Ski boots should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting ski boots.
- Flex rating. Skis are made for different ability levels, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you choose a pair. In general, you’ll want a lower flex rating (for greater flexibility) if you are a beginner and a higher flex rating if you are an expert.
- Last size. The last size refers to the width of the back of the foot. If your feet are wide, you’ll need a larger last size; if they are narrow, you’ll need a smaller one.
- Liner. Ski boot liners will compress to your feet, so it is important to choose a liner that fits snugly the first day you wear the skis. Within a couple days, it will fit just right.
- Buckles. In general, the more buckles a ski boot has, the more flexibility and adjustability you will enjoy. Four buckles tends to be the most popular option, but three buckles or even two buckles can be just as good. If you are a beginner, four buckles will give you the most versatility.
- Hike/walk mode. Some ski boots will be able to switch from hiking mode to walking mode. This gives you some extra options if you need some extra range of motion before you hit the slopes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flex index on a ski boot?
The flex index refers to how easy or difficult it is to flex the boot forward. If you are a beginner, you will want to look for a low flex rating, which means that it is more flexible. Flex ratings from 50 to 70 are soft and appropriate for beginners. (Women should go toward the low end of the range and men might go toward the higher end.) Intermediate skiers should choose flex ratings from 75 to 100, advanced skiers from 100 to 120, and expert racers might choose ski boots with flex ratings over 120.
How tight should you wear your ski boots?
Wearing your ski boots snugly enough (but not too snug!) will help prevent injuries and can keep you comfortable on long days on the slopes. It is important to understand that ski boots will feel tighter than regular shoes. You should be able to wiggle your toes, but your toes should touch the front of the boot when you are standing up straight. As you flex the boot forward, you will notice that more room opens up in the toe area. Keep in mind that the liner will compress somewhat as you break in the boots, so a snug fit on the first day will loosen up a bit as you wear them.
Are ski boots and bindings universal?
Yes and no. If you purchase downhill ski boots for downhill skiing, then yes, the bindings will all be universal. The bindings for cross-country and Telemark boots and skis, however, are not compatible with downhill bindings. For cross-country and Telemark boots, you will need to consider what type of bindings they are compatible with and go from there.
How do you measure ski boots?
Ski boots are sized using Mondo Point sizing. This type of sizing is based on centimeters. If you aren’t going to a ski shop to be measured, you can do it at home with the help of a friend. Stand in stocking feet on a piece of paper and ask your friend to trace your foot. Then all you need to do is measure with a centimeter ruler or tape measure. The measurement from toe to heel will be the boot size. Measure from side to side, as well; different brands and models offer different widths, so you will need to be mindful of that. Don’t try to just order a larger size to get a wider boot because that won’t work and it will likely just result in a too-large ski boot.
Other Ski Boots We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other pairs of ski boots. Even though they didn’t make our top 5 list, they are still solid choices for those interested in purchasing ski boots.
- Ski Boots for Beginner/Intermediate Skiers
- Ski Boots for Advanced Skiers
- Cross-Country Ski Boots
- Telemark Boots
Ski Boots for Beginner/Intermediate Skiers
With a wide fit and a soft flex, these ski boots are perfect for beginners. They adjust to your foot thanks to the Live Fit liners and adjustable buckles.
Key Features:
- 102 mm wide fit
- Bronze liner
- PE cuff and shell
Cost: $250
Dalbello Panterra MX 90 Ski Boots 2018
A three-piece design allows this boot to offer great flex, a lot of control, and a walk/ski feature. Roomy toe boxes and a TruFit liner keeps feet comfortable and toasty warm.
Key Features:
- Cabrio construction
- Walk option
- 103 mm last
Cost: $275
Intermediate skiers with narrow feet and calves will find the K2 Spyne comfortable. Four buckles and the LuxFitPro liner ensure a great fit every time.
Key Features:
- Cuff alignment index
- Energy interlock
- 100 mm last
Cost: $300
This high-performance all-mountain boot is good for intermediate skiers and for beginners who would like to progress to the intermediate stage. It has a wide last for skiers with wider feet.
Key Features:
- 102 mm last
- Polyether shell
- Injected bootboard
Cost: $200
Salomon Quest Access 80 Ski Boots
The Salomon Quest Access 80 ski boots have a ratchet buckle, allowing you to micro-adjust as the day goes on, ensuring comfort for many hours.
Key Features:
- Ratchet buckle
- 104 mm last
- Hike/ride function
Ski Boots for Advanced Skiers
Atomic Hawx Ultra 130 Ski Boots
This is a stiff, narrow boot for expert skiers. With a memory fit liner, Thinsulate insulation, and an ultralight shell, these boots will keep you comfortable all day long.
Key Features:
- 99 mm last
- 130 flex rating
- 55 mm velcro power strap
Cost: $500
Nordica Speedmachine 120 Ski Boot
Noridca offers a great balance of performance, light weight, and the ability to customize the fit with these ski boots for advanced skiers.
Key Features:
- Extra grip high-traction soles
- 3D cork fit liner
- Tri-fit technology
Cost: $350
Rossignol Alltrack Pro 120 Ski Boot
This 120 flex boot for advanced skiers has a medium fit with a 100 mm last. The ski-hike feature allows for both hiking versatility and alpine performance.
Key Features:
- Sensor grid shell technology
- OptiSensor 3D Thinsulate Platinum liners
- Four micro-adjustable buckles
Cost: $350
These boots offer excellent energy transfer and powerful control. A stiff boot with flexibility where it wraps around the foot combine performance with comfort.
Key Features:
- 24mm oversized pivot
- 360 custom shell
- Twinframe 2 design
Cost: $400
Scarpa Freedom SL Freeride Ski Boots
The carbon core construction of these boots provides stiffness without adding bulk and weight while the patented Ride Power Block provides maximum power.
Key Features:
- Intuition FR liner
- 110 flex
- Vibram Mountain Plus outsole
Cross-Country Ski Boots
Alpina Alaska 75mm Backcountry Boot
These cross-country ski boots are full-grain leather, so they offer plenty of durability and support. These work with 75 mm bindings.
Key Features:
- Alpitex waterproof breathable membrane
- Thinsulate brand insulation
- 75mm Vibram back-country sole
Cost: $200
Madshus Nano Carbon Skate Nordic Boots
Performance meets comfort with these ski boots. Enjoy power, control, and acceleration with a Race Fit last and an NNN sole.
Key Features:
- Carbon composite cuff
- MemBrain Softshell
- RevoWrap laces
Cost: $450
New Whitewoods Adult 302 NNN Nordic Cross Country XC Insulated Ski Boots
These cross-country ski boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry with a quick-dry Thinsulate liner and a breathable waterproof upper.
Key Features:
- Works with the NNN style binding
- Improved metal lace guides
- Thinsulate liner
Cost: $85
Rossignol BC X6 Cross-Country Ski Boots 2016
These boots have a snug fit and solid construction for warmth and control. They work well on all terrains, from popular trails to untouched snowy woods.
Key Features:
- Speed-lock lace system
- Compatible with NNN bindings
- Free-hinge cuffs with hook-and-loop power straps
Cost: $100
Salomon Men’s Escape 7 Pilot CF Boots
This boot’s Thinsulate lining adds warmth while the supportive cuff offers comfort and control. The Quicklace system provides easy adjustments.
Key Features:
- SNS Pilot2 Touring outsole
- Salomon Quicklace Kevlar laces
- Low-bulk Thinsulate insulation
Telemark Boots
Black Diamond Women’s Stiletto Ski Boot
These telemark boots for women have a stiff flex (the rating is 110), an extra-wide power strap, and four micro-adjust buckles for the ultimate in control and power.
Key Features:
- Women-specific design of the liner, the spoiler and the flex
- Triax Pro frame construction
- 75 mm binding-compatible
Cost: $585
Garmont Kenai Telemark Ski Boot
This versatile 75 mm telemark boot has a light footprint and a responsive, progressive flex. It is compatible with 75 mm bindings.
Key Features:
- 2 wide open buckles
- Flash Thermo liner
- Flex Index: 110
Cost: $500
Garmont Priestess NTN Ski Boot
This NTN-compatible ski boot is a high-performance choice for women who prefer free-heel skiing. It has a good forward flex with a 120 flex rating.
Key Features:
- Ergo Bellows design
- Pebax shell
- 3 wide open buckles and power strap
Cost: $500
SCARPA TX Pro Telemark Boot – Women’s
These telemark boots offer the unique advantage of being both NTN and TLT compatible, so you don’t have to limit yourself to one type of binding system.
Key Features:
- Pebax shell
- Vibram EVO sole
- 102 mm last
Cost: $500
Enjoy warmth, a light weight, and secure ski control with this boot. The last is 102 mm, which will work well for those with moderately wide feet.
Key Features:
- Stiff tongue for better performance
- More bellows protection
- Very lightweight boot
Cost: $260
