The Best Ski Boots in 2023

These intermediate-level downhill ski boots feature a seamless liner keeping your feet warmer and ensuring an even better fit than previous models. The combination of Salomon’s patented Custom Fit HD and Custom Shell technologies, in which the boots are heated and form-fitted to your feet, almost ensure a perfect fit.

With a wider footbed and a medium flex index these boots will serve you well on the days when you want to go hard as well as when you are planning to take it a bit easier. A quick edge to edge transfer is ideal for a smooth ride while still tweaking that ski technique.

These lightweight boots are not your classic, alpine ski boot – and they are not meant to be! The Fischer Ranger Free 130s combine the best of two worlds: high performance on piste and excellent ease of movement in walk mode for walking or touring.

The walk mode allows maximum comfort off the slopes and offers a greater range of motion compared to most similar boots. The walk mode mechanism is located internally, unlike most free-range boots, and the lever is conveniently located under the top buckle. You can count on no play in the Fischer walk mode mechanism even in the roughest of terrain – that means no accidental slipping into walk mode mid-turn! The relatively lightweight liner includes a supportive plastic tongue like a classic alpine boot and optional laces for a snugger fit.

The boots have rubberized soles, GripWalk, to make walking a little easier on hard surfaces like parking lots; however, you will need GripWalk compatible bindings. The flex is quite linear offering adequate lateral stability for riding high speeds with heavier skis but allowing comparatively more forward lean which may not be ideal for heavier skiers or challenging conditions.

These ski boots stand apart from the rest because they truly deliver the stable performance expected from a downhill boot at a weight that is more comparable with touring boots. They ride well in all mountain terrain and the thin graphene infused shell delivers stability and a responsive, snow feeling.

The Nexo LYT 130s are highly customizable with not only heat moldable liners and shells but LiquidFit tech which allows paraffin to be injected into the liner for a truly custom fit. The LiquidFit process needs to be done by a boot fitter and paraffin can be added or removed to adjust the fit at any time. The flex can also be adjusted between 120 and 130 depending on skier preference.

These all-mountain boots have a stiff feel and are well suited for advanced or expert skiers who are looking for performance on the slopes. Expert less features and frills, but a boot that truly delivers stable, solid performance in a wide variety of terrains. If your main goal is to head out and ski hard, then these are the boots for you.

The boots are geared towards simplicity and performance as opposed to all-day comfort or your après ski. The thin shell and liner keep you close to the snow and offer a tight fit, but don’t provide a lot of cushion or warmth. The fixed forward lean results in a somewhat upright position, which may not be suited to all skiers, especially if you are used to more linear flex.

These boots are sleek and stiff. Ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers who are looking for hard driving precision in a sleek yet comfortable package. The softer shell material makes them easier putting on and taking off while the stiff carbon spine combined with strategically varying plastic thickness in specific areas deliver excellent power transmission.

Forget about having to trade comfort for stiffness, these Technica’s have a soft material in the instep for increased comfort, the C.A.S (custom adaptable shape) liner can be molded and the floating tongue is heat customizable as well. They fit a bit wider in the forefoot than previous 100mm Technica boots which could make them more comfortable for slightly above average width feet.

Ideal for powerful aggressive skiers – if you can handle these boots, they can take you down just about anything!

These boots are ideal for the intermediate to expert skier and are designed to rip on piste. The Dalbello Sports DS 130s offer a great balance between comfort and downhill performance making them ideal for long days at the resort. They offer slightly more foot space than a race boot without losing their precision. The Powercage construction provides exceptional side stability making these boots ideal for all snow conditions and ensuring enough power transmission to feel controlled at high speeds.

The heat-moldable liners allow for some fit customization, as does the optional shim to increase ramp angle depending on your preferences in terms of forward lean. If you are looking for top comfort without compromising performance at top speed, then these are the boots for you.

These boots are ideal for anyone with narrower feet who enjoys setting fresh tracks in or out of bounds. Atomic’s patented plastic allows for up to 6mm of additional stretch and fit adjustment making these boots a potential winner for many skiers with average width feet as well. Another unique feature is the adjustable forward lean – your boots, your way.

Lighter weight than a typical race boot, these still deliver great control and ride well through various snow conditions on piste or in the backcountry.

The Kore 1s combine walking mobility with downhill performance. They are stiff enough to handle high speeds and wider skis with ease and their 45° range of motion offers great upward mobility for walking or touring. The GripWalk soles make scrambling to your line a bit easier; however, they can be replaced with alpine soles.

These boots have a relatively thick liner compared to many comparable touring boots including a removable plastic spoiler for increased stability. Like Head’s Nexo LYT 130 boot, LiquidFit tech allows paraffin to be injected into the liner for a truly custom fit. The LiquidFit process needs to be done by a boot fitter and paraffin can be added or removed to adjust the fit at any time. They fit a bit roomier than their predecessors, which could be an advantage depending on your foot size and fit preference.

These lightweight, stiff boots are designed for advanced skiers who are looking for performance and stability on and off piste. Boasting 50° range of motion in walk mode, these boots provide excellent upward mobility for touring. Decent responsiveness and a high flex index make them good candidates for speeding down groomed tracks as well. They are a perfect mix and can pretty well handle anything.

The 100mm last width combined with the Thinsulate liner make these boots especially warm and comfortable, although the wide fit makes them a poor option for anyone with narrow feet. They have limited forward lean and a progressive flex which makes them a good option for intermediate skiers who are ready for a more aggressive boot as well.

Welcome to the reborn rear entry ski boot – providing comfort and convenience while maintaining a good ski feeling. The unique construction features a single monolock buckle that fastens the entire cuff. The best part is that the monolock buckle is hands-free and can be easily locked and released with the tip of your ski pole or heel of your other foot making these boots convenient for everyone, especially those with limited mobility.

The closure system provides excellent lateral support and stability giving the skier a feeling of control and instant response. With a last width of 102mm these boots have enough space for average to wide feet, or perhaps some extra thick socks. The flex is mid-range making the Nordica HF 85W’s ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers. They aren’t designed for hard driving performance, but they are comfortable are perfect for cruising.

Between the waterproofed shell, infra-red customizable construction and a one-piece liner, these Nordica’s are truly comfortable. Complete with both Gripwalk and Alpine soles, you can set these boots up well to suit your personal needs.