We've said it before, and we'll say it again: boots are one of the most important pieces of equipment. If a pair is too big, you risk ankle pain and will struggle to make any turns. If they are too small, you'll feet will go numb, and you risk cold, numb feet with pressure points. Goldilocks doesn't have anything on a good boot fit.
A boot shopping experience ranges from big box stores, more often than not, with employees who have had minimal training. To professional boot fitters who have spent their lives figuring out the science of a proper boot fit. A professional boot fitter will stand by their fit and will make adjustments to the boot throughout its life at no additional cost.
While there are only a handful of female ski boot fitters in the country, they are elusive unicorns that should be treasured. Since the odds are there isn't a female boot fitter at your local shop here are She-Shredz boot shop picks that we can ensure a positive experience in North Lake Tahoe.
Olympic Bootworks- Olympic Valley
Olympic Bootworks isn't your typical shop. The moment you walk in that's an apparent you are in for a different level of fitting. Whether you're going uphill and need touring boots. Or perhaps you are in search for the best freeride boot to take on big air, these guys know how to ensure your boots won't be on your mind. Looking for a race boot? Buck (the owner of Olympic Bootworks) has had his boot on the podium at the Hahnenkamm within the last few years. That is something to brag about in the ski world.
Known for pioneering the Heel-loc Technology - molded footbeds Buck knows his way around a boot. As does all of his highly trained and knowledgeable staff. Before you ask, the Heel-loc footbeds are custom footbeds that are only found at Olympic Bootworks. A custom mold of your foot is made, and this ensures that your heel will not lift even for the smallest foot (I can personally attest to this being a 22.5 size boot).
Besides custom footbeds, Olympic Bootworks is also the number one seller for ZipFit liners. We will get into the amazing things that ZipFit liners offer skiers at a later time but anyone who is an avid skier keep ZipFit on your radar.
Whether it's your first pair of ski boots or perhaps you're an industry pro, Olympic Bootworks knows how to cater to a range of skiers and abilities. Pro tip: get in before the mountain opens since they take "skiesta" ski breaks during the midpoint of their day. If I worked across the street from the best chair lift in the world who wouldn't take a "skiesta"? Located across from Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley) side you can't miss the shop as you drive in the valley.
Location: 1602 Squaw Valley Road, Box 3514, Olympic Valley, CA, 96146
BestFit Ski Boots- Truckee
Located right of Highway 80 you'll find a quiet boot shop that hits all the right notes when you need a fit. BestFit Ski Boots offers a variety of customizations which by now you're finding is the secret to a proper fit (and being able to handle being in a boot all day). With the owner being a former ex ski racer, precision is key.
Whether it be custom footbeds, stance analysis, or ski boot canting you are in the right place. With stance analysis to help discover your exact balance points. Think you have a better turning side (spoiler most of us do) find out for sure. More importantly, make sure your boots are dialed in for what your body needs when skiing is just in fact a delicate balancing act.
For those of you who didn't grow up in the gates ski boot canting is a very niche service that your average shop will not offer. Between the ski boot cuff alignment and custom footbeds ensuring that you are perfectly balanced on every turn is what a ski boot canting will do for you. By correcting the proper angle into the ski boot sole, canting acts as the ultimate balance correction.
If you are searching for a relaxed boot fit, with a shop that has just what you need without being overwhelming head over to BestFit Ski Boots.
Location: 12047 Donner Pass Rd b3, Truckee, CA 96161
Start Haus- Truckee
Start Haus is that ski shop in Truckee. Having started off in a basement over 30 years ago to now a storefront where their reputation spreads by word of mouth (ask most locals) they are going to get your boot fit where you need it.
Taking pride in their workmanship, they expect nothing put top-notch service from their team and gear. With a common goal of making your skiing better, the main goal is to elevate your ski experience. Known for their excellent reviews it's hard to argue why Start Haus isn't a cult classic. Keep your eye out, a new location is coming soon off the 89.
Location: 11410 Deerfield Dr. Truckee, CA 96161
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