Looking for the best ski boots for women? You’ve come to the right place!
When it comes to finding the right ski boots for you, there are many vital features and many more that differ based on your abilities and size. In short, there’s a lot you need to know before you can look for the best pair. You want your feet to stay warm and dry, the boot to fit well for comfort and performance, and to be able to ski in a variety of snow conditions.
With so many ski boot options for women, we narrowed down the list between some of the top sellers in the industry from recent years. We found the best boots that perform well under pressure and do it better than other ski boots on the market.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- Best overall choice – Rossignol Pure Comfort 60 Ski Boots Women’s
- Premium product – Lange RX 110 W Low Volume Ski Boots 2020 Women’s
- Best value product – Nordica 2019 Speed Machine 105W Ski Boots
Read on to learn more about how to choose the best ski boots for women. The fit is crucial when it comes to ski boots, as it completely determines how you perform on the slopes. Make sure you’re buying the right option for your feet and skill level. We’ll show you all the basics you need to know, then explain why we chose each of our 10 picks below.
How to Choose the Best Ski Boots for Women
Follow these top tips to choose the best ski boots for women. We’ll show you how female boots differ from men and children’s, what features stand out, and how to find the right boot for you.
Advantages to Ski Boots
Ski boots are highly important to your ski setup. When you’re hitting the slopes, you must wear ski boots. A well-fitting pair of ski boots help translate your intentions from your body to the skis, which is why a precise fit offers optimal performance and control.
Women’s ski boots are specifically for the female anatomy. It goes beyond foot shape. Ladies tend to have thinner feet with more taper between the forefoot and heel region than men. Women’s legs also are shorts and fuller than most men, and they carry their center of gravity in the hips and bottom.
What this means is that females tend to sit back on their heels more often, which can result in losing control over the skis without the proper footwear.
Most manufacturers today make ski boots specifically for women. They have a narrower width and heel pocket as well as a shorter and fuller cuff to make room for the foot and leg shape. The boots also offer heel lift to slightly lean the lady’s body weight forward and compensate for a more efficient skiing experience.
Things to Look for in Ski Boots
Because they’re so vital, you should take the time and energy you need to find the right option for you.
Finding the right fit for the size and shape of your feet is the most important thing to check in ski boots before you buy. Everyone has a unique foot, and the hard-plastic shell around the boot can cause fit issues. The goal is to find a ski boot that feels comfortable without the shell getting in the way of your performance. Don’t be afraid to head to a store to try on the boots if you prefer to order online.
If you’re unsure about your size or the fit of the boots, you can also seek help from a professional specialist at an REI near you. REI offers a ski boot sizing and fit guide that’s extremely helpful in finding your size at their store or modifying your ski boots to suit your needs.
When trying on the ski boots, check to see how the boot fits you in terms and size and shape. Then, look at how the boot flexes and any other features they may have that enhances comfort. However, don’t expect ski boots to feel as comfortable as your street shoes. Ski boots may vary based on:
- Height
- Weight
- Ability (skill) level
- Foam padding
- Aspirations
- Frequency of wear
- Other factors
The foam padding used inside ski boots, unlike other shoes, also compresses as you wear them. This means your brand-new ski boots will fit much snugger at first. After a few days on the slopes, the foam becomes more relaxed.
Make sure the ski boots fit well before you buy them and look for other crucial things like the following.
Construction
Most ski boots have a hard outer shell for support and a soft foam padding for comfort and warmth. Adult boots come with a front-entry design, which means they open in the front much like hiking boots, and use around three or four buckles to secure the boots shut. Children’s boots and some beginner ski boots may vary, however. They use a rear-entry style, where the boots open in the back. This construction is more comfortable for people who aren’t used to wearing ski boots yet.
Skill Level
The type of skier you are and your skill or ability level are the first two factors to consider when finding the right ski boots for you. You should select a boot that’s close to your skill level for the best performance and comfort. Each level changes the shape of the boot as well as the overall flex and other special features the boots may come with, regardless of the model.
Beginner boots tend to offer more flex, which is more forgiving if you make technical errors. Proficient skiers make fewer mistakes, so the boots come with a stiffer flex. The skill levels break down as follows:
- Beginner – First-time skiers or people new to skiing who are learning basic control.
- Intermediate – A skier with more control over the skis and comfort at moderate speeds than a beginner, but still feels cautious on challenging terrain. Athletic or heavy beginners may also prefer this level.
- Advanced intermediate – More experienced skiers with the basic techniques down, advanced level skiers can explore off-trail options and carve more aggressively at moderate speeds. They may take advanced trails at optimal snow conditions.
- Advanced – Unlike advanced intermediate skiers, this level involves a stronger technique with less aggression. They’re comfortable at high speeds on any terrain and in any snow conditions.
- Expert – The top-level, expert skiers move safely at high speeds. They have control, no matter what terrain or snow conditions are in store on the mountain.
You may also want to alter the skill level you select based on your weight. If you’re over 200 lbs., you’ll benefit from buying a boot at a higher level. Women under 115 lbs., on the other hand, should consider buying a ski boot a level down for more support and rebound control.
Best Intended Use
How you plan to ski is another top defining factor to which ski boots you should buy. Ski boots come with varying features depending on the snow conditions you can wear to boots in. Wearing the wrong design for your needs can cause harm.
The main options include:
- Downhill boots – Any type of ski boot that pairs with standard ski bindings. Downhill boots are ideal for, you guessed it, skiing down a hill. They come in beginner to expert levels.
- Side country boots – This popular term describes ski boots you can use for walking and hiking as well as downhill skiing. They have a switch to toggle between modes and rubber sole inserts with more grip for adventurous skiers who enjoy spending time off the path. You’ll often see this feature listed as ski/hike features.
- Freestyle boots – Unlike traditional boots, freestyle boots have a more upright cuff and stance. They’re made to make skiing and landing easier, with shock-absorbing properties. They also fit much more relaxed and playful for helping you jump and land perfectly.
- Race boots – Racing boots are made especially for fast speeds to help you win. They’re a downhill boot, but they focus on performance. These boots also take on a more aggressive stance with the thick plastic shell and dense liners for more power and top energy transfer. Many race boots are unisex.
- Alpine touring boots – A lightweight and easy construction makes alpine touring boots easy to ski, hike, and climb in. They’re easier to put on as well, but they are only compatible with AT bindings.
Size
Women’s ski boots are measured based on the Mondo Point size, which is in terms of centimeters. Finding your Mondo Point size is as easy as measuring the length of your foot. The size is important for both the ski boot shell and the liners. Both are often in half sizes, and the only difference between them is how thick the stock footbed sits.
Some manufacturers offer whole and half sizes. However, most ski boots come in half sizes.
Because women’s ski boots transfer energy from the knee down into the skis, there will be less slipping and movement in a well-fitting pair of ski boots. You will also have more energy transfer for accuracy and speed. Therefore, wearing the right size for you is so vital in skiing. Without a proper fit, you will cause blisters along your feet and legs as well as leg cramps from the added stress.
YouTube tutorials, like this option from skis.com, can also help you find the right ski boot size and width. It’s particularly helpful if you think your size may have changed since you were last fitted for your boots by a professional or want to buy ski boots online. They also offer a few pointers to help you know if your boots fit well for sure.
Flex
The flex of your ski boots will range from soft to very stiff. This measurement refers to how much pressure is necessary for the boot to bend and move. The lower the number, the more the ski boot can flex. Flex is measured in terms of a number, where the higher the rating equals, the stiffer the boot.
If you’re tall, strong, or heavy, you will benefit from a stiffer boot. This flex level provides added support, control, and rebound over the skis. Beginners and recreational skiers might thrive more with a forgiving, soft boot. They don’t require as much pressure to flex, allowing you to focus on your basic technique while you learn.
The flex of your ski boots varies based on the manufacturer and the boot. However, there is no set industry standard to boot flex. Therefore, the flex rating can vary between models and brands. Factors such as design, the plastic the boots use, and the number of buckles on the boot may all determine how much flex is available.
To find the right flex for you, consider your skill level and your body type. Think about your weight and height as well as how aggressively you ski and how much flexibility you have in your ankle. Tall and heavy women should stick to a stiffer flex. If you have knee issues or are super lightweight, you may also want to go with a softer flex.
Most women’s ski boots flex ratings follow this general guide:
- Beginner – Soft flex, from 40 to 60
- Intermediate – Medium flex, from 60 to 70
- Advanced intermediate – Medium or stiff flex, from 70 to 80
- Advanced – Stiff flex, from 80 to 90
- Expert – Stiff or very stiff flex, from 90 to 110
Men’s ski boots reach a stiff top flex of 130. Most women’s boots will top out at 110. However, you might be able to find higher stiff ratings in women’s shoes with lots of research.
Read Also: Best Snowboard Boots for Women
Width
Everyone has different width of foot, so sizes vary from narrow to wide. Manufacturers tend to make different width options with varying levels of flex in the boot liner. Width sizes come in millimeters along the top of the forefoot. They may also vary based on the brand, but most width sizes are displayed as follows:
- Narrow – Commonly for small feet or high-performance race boots and come in 95 to 99mm widths.
- Medium – From 100 to 103mm, these boots are designed for performance or advanced skiers.
- Wide – Created for comfort, wide ski boots are often for recreational skiers. They range from 104 to 106mm.
Most ski boots get longer as they get wider as well. This shape helps to accommodate a larger foot size. For example, a 26.5 size boot that’s 100mm across would become 108mm across in a bigger 31.5 size.
Boot widths range from 98mm to 106mm for women. The width you get depends on your foot, but also your ability level.
Expert-level ski boots and options designed for racing at top speeds typically come in widths under 100mm, for example. Some expert-level models come in high volume lasts or HVL, which helps the boot feel wider directly out of the box as well. Intermediate to advanced boots range from around 100mm to 102mm, and beginner to intermediate skiers have options between 102mm and 106mm.
Leg and Foot Shape (Volume and Instep Height)
Your leg and foot shape also determine what size skis you get. To determine the size ski boot you need in terms of your leg and foot shape, you must consider the calf volume as well as the instep height.
If you have skinny legs, the calf volume or shaft portion of the boot that extends up your leg will need to be low volume or very narrow. Wide, thick calves require high volume ski boots. Standard calf volume is the lowest form.
Your instep is the area of your foot above the arch. Most people have an instep height that’s equal to that of their arch. However, everyone is different. Match the ski boot to your instep for comfort and control. A boot that’s too tall across your foot will slip and cause you to lose control of the skis. An instep that’s too low will cut off your blood circulation.
Without the right ski boot for your leg and foot shape, you might notice discomfort when the boots close. They can squeeze all the blood from your feet, causing your foot to fall asleep or feel cold. Likewise, a ski boot that’s too wide in the leg won’t move with you, ask you move and attempt to turn. Tight-fitting boots can also cause blisters.
Other Features
Top of the line ski boots tends to offer added features. Expect to pay more for boots with features like:
- Ski/Hike feature – Allows you to switch the boot into mode along the back spine so you can walk forward. They’re sometimes called equipped boots.
- Flex adjustment – Some ski boots come with the ability to adjust the flex slightly in measures of 10, up or down. The versatility allows you to find a softer setting when you want. However, you’ll need an Allen wrench to adjust the spine of the boots.
- Cuff adjustment – Some ski boots may include a single cuff adjustment on the ankle region of the boot, while more high-end brands feature dual cuff adjustments for both the outside and inside of the ankle. The adjustment helps compensate for bow leggedness but requires the help of a professional ski boot fitter.
- Footbed – Arch support along your footbed can enhance your balance, alignment, fit, and even keep your toes warmer. Add an aftermarket footbed for a bonus skiing experience.
- Custom boot fitting – Many ski resorts and shops offer professional boot fitting to adjust your boots. They know exactly how to help your ski boots best work for you, but the modifications may vary based on how long they take to complete.
What’s the Difference Between Women’s and Men’s Ski Boots?
All women should buy a ski boot specific to women. Unless you’re a professional skier or complete tournament races, a woman should never wear a ski boot made for a man or child. Not only will they fit wrong and feel more uncomfortable, but you also won’t be able to perform well on the slopes.
Before you know how to select the best ski boots for women, it might be helpful to look at the main differences between the ski boots for the two sexes. The main differences come about due to body size. Men and women are anatomically different, and so the boots must be too.
Unlike men’s ski boots, the options made with women in mind fit differently in the cuff height, heel and ankle fit, and the foot liners. Women’s boots are also made with their foot a leg shape in mind. As we briefly mentioned before, women have larger calves and shorter legs. This means a women’s calf muscle must go into the boot. Men, on the other hand, typically have calves that sit just above the boot cuff.
Women’s ski boots feature wider cuffs and other adjustments. They will come in more wide sizes than men’s boots, often with width sizes available up to 106mm wide. It’s the same top size as men’s ski boots. However, the boot is shaped narrower in the heel and ankle region than men. You may find more padding in the ankle to help the boots fit better or liners with warmer, thicker materials.
Ladies’ ski boots aren’t just shorter and shaped differently, and they also flex much differently. Women’s ski boots are more efficient when it comes to combating the cold and turning easier. The flex is softer than men’s ski boots, no matter what skill level.
The stance or the inside bottom of the boot also doesn’t sit fully flat. It’s better for women who have a center of gravity much different than men who hold their balance in the belly. The wedge is taller inside the boot to move a woman’s body weight slightly forward. This design feature also makes it easier for women to complete turns.
With the right boots for your female anatomy, your feet will feel warmer and more comfortable. The shape of the boot will form to you, and you can enhance your ability to perform – especially when it comes to turns and curves along the slopes. If you’re skiing over rocky or more advanced terrain, you don’t want to be stuck wearing the wrong boots.
What to Pair with Your Ski Boots
Perhaps the most crucial item of clothing to pair with your ski boots, the socks you select are vital to how your boots will fit. Ski socks keep your feet warm and protected. You should wear your ski socks to your boot fitting as well to ensure the best fit possible. Evo has an excellent guide on finding the perfect ski socks for you.
After a long day spent skiing the slopes, you’ll also want to slip into a pair of comfy snow boots to roam the mountain town. You can’t very well walk around town wearing your ski boots, after all. Zappos offers excellent options like:
- The North Face Yukiona Ankle Boot Shiney – A warm and comfortable ankle boot for relaxing activities, this option is made from recycled materials.
- Tory Sport Moccasin Boot – Stay stylish and super warm in cold weather with these fleece-lined boots. They’re inspired by the 1970’s ski wear and are waterproof for added protection against the elements.
- Moon Boot Monaco WP 2 – An après-ski boot to get you to the tavern or ski lodge in taller snowbanks, this Moon Boot option has more height and a faux-fur collar for warmth.
- Sorel 1964 Pac Nylon – Another comfortable boot option made from recycled materials, Sorel brings versatility to the slopes. Use these boots when you want to stay warm and stylish while running errands on cold winter days.
Read Also: Best Ski Boots for Beginners
10 Best Ski Boots for Women: Reviews
Now that you know how to find which type of ski boots are best for your feet to explore some of the bestselling ski boots for women below. Each option was hand-selected from industry favorites. You’ll notice they vary based on the size and features, so find the best boot with your foot in mind.
1. Rossignol Pure Comfort 60 Ski Boots Women’s
A top seller for all-mountain performance, the Rossignol Pure Comfort women’s ski boots are downright amazing! The boots are made with recreational skiers and wide feet in mind, and the relaxed fit offers adjustable flex so you can find the right fit for you each time. They perform highly, feel comfortable, and come with the best features for adjustments.
The best part about this boot is that it’s made to go anywhere and fit just about anyone. Plus, keep your toes super warm. The Pure Pro Heat integrated heating and polar fleece insulation will keep your feet warm and dry without adding too much weight to the boots. It’s a game-changer.
Pros:
- Perfect for a wide range of abilities
- Relaxed fit for recreational skiers with wide feet
- Premium-level comfort
- Soft plastic near the instep, making them easy to put on
- Sensor Matrix shell designed for less boot weight
- Custom liners for added comfort and support
- Polar fleece insulation keeps feet warm and dry
Cons:
- Expensive
2. Lange RX 110 W Low Volume Ski Boots 2020 Women’s
With these women’s ski boots, you can stay on the slopes longer without sacrificing comfort. They’re a premium choice because they have it all: shin control to help support the lower leg and alleviate sensitivity, flex and drive, explosive power, precision, and fast response. Lange boots will boost your performance. Plus, they’re easy to put on and are stunning in a race-inspired option.
Pros:
- Skin control customizable 3D liner
- 90-120 flex, for intermediate and advanced skiers only
- 97mm last
- Dual Core-Shell Technology for added performance
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- World Cup-like precision
- Available in other bright colors
- Only four pounds, which is super lightweight
Cons:
- Costly
- Not sturdy enough for over 150L skiers
- Flex overrated
- Not as warm as some other ski boot options
3. Nordica 2019 Speed Machine 105W Ski Boots
The Nordica Speed Machine ski boots are highly responsive, comfortable to wear for long periods, and very energetic. It’s the best ski boot for ladies who are looking for a great fit so they can ski the mountain with finesse rather than top speeds.
However, users say last years’ model doesn’t have a durable power strap design. The flex is also overrated when it comes to this ski boot, and it doesn’t come with many added features for adjustability outside of the flex.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Highly-responsive
- For intermediate skiers only
- Adjustable flex, from 85 to 115
- 100mm last width
- Tri-Fit Technology
Cons:
- Better for finesse than the speed
- Not as many features as other options
- Not as warm or durable for long-term use
4. Rossignol Pure Heat Ski Boots Women’s
If keeping your feet warm is the most important thing to you this winter, stick to this women’s ski boot. They’re made with Wintherm insulation to stop heat from escaping the boot and reflect the warmth toward the foot. The heating system is fully adjustable, as is the flex. The boot responds quickly and performs well, all while keeping finesse skier’s feet toasty.
The downside is there’s no quick start-up guide to get you started, and the charging cable is quite short. You’ll need to charge the batteries in these boots for the heating system. It’s not always easy to figure out on your own. Once you do, the feeling is amazing. For a boot this expensive, however, you would expect at least a guide for ladies new to the boots.
Pros:
- Go anywhere, ski anything boot
- All-mountain experience
- High performance
- Wintherm insulation for a warmth boost
- Adjustable, integrated heating
- 100 flex for advanced skiers
- Regular fit, with 102mm last for recreational skiing
- Optimized Power Transmission
- Fit takes the pressure off the calves and shin muscles
Cons:
- No quick start-up guide
- Short charging cable
- Hard-to-charge batteries
5. Tecnica Ten.2 65 CA W Women’s Ski Boots
Tecnica is a well-known brand in the industry that often receives excellent reviews. This ski boot is for all-mountain use. It’s best for beginners. However, advanced intermediate skiers can wear the boot as well. They’re perfect for women with a high instep and medium width foot. The Ten.2 offers flex resistance, support, and rebound to help you learn. They’ll also feel great all day long.
There’s even wool insulation to keep your feet toasty!
Pros:
- Highly affordable
- Quick Instep MAX shell
- Customizable
- Cuff adapt spoiler
- Well-fitting liner
- 65 Flex, which is ideal for beginners
- Lightweight
- Warm and comfortable
- One-year warranty
Cons:
- 35mm power strap included that breaks easily
- Too stiff for all snow conditions
- Difficult to find in stock
6. Rossignol Kelia 50 Ski Boots Women’s
Another perfect ski boot for beginners, the Rossignol Kelia 50 ski boots, are highly affordable and made with newbies in mind. The shell was constructed to alleviate the pressure on the calves and leg muscles to help boost your performance and comfort. They’re highly lightweight and super comfortable before you even break them in, and well worth the investment.
If you’re learning how to curve or still honing your skills, the Rossignol boot is a soft alpine option you’ll adore.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners
- Highly affordable
- Relaxed fit for recreational skiers with wide (104mm) feet
- Engineered Sensor Matrix shell for a lightweight design
- Easy entry, thanks to a soft plastic in the instep
- Reduces pressure on the legs
- Boosts comfortable and performance
Cons:
- For beginners with wide feet only
- 35mm power strap not as durable as other boots
- Only available in average sizes
7. Apex HP-L All-Mountain Ski Boots
The Apex HP-L All-Mountain Ski Boots are for intermediate to advanced skiers. They feature an innovative design, with four lean forward positions and a dual boa zone closure system. You can ski or walk in these boots easily. The boot feels comfortable and is adjustable based on your needs.
However, the ski boot is expensive for the number of features you gain. The design is creative, but it’s also clunky. While this boot may be good for you if you’re a beginner who doesn’t care about added features, the Apex also lacks performance.
Pros:
- Creative design
- Dual Boa Zone closure system
- Four lean forward positions
- Lots of adjustable features
- Adjustable flex level, from 75 to 95
- Warm heat-moldable liner
- Only three easy-to-snap buckles
Cons:
- Expensive, with little gains
- Clunky, bulky design
- Lacks ski performance on the slopes
8. Salomon QST Access Custom Heat Ski Boots Women’s
Another Salomon ski boot for women, this option is unique because it offers hike and ride technology as well as custom heat technology. Heated boots are the future, and with Salomon’s Bluetooth technology, you can adjust the settings with ease.
For a go anywhere, do anything type of boot, you can’t go wrong with this affordable choice. The design keeps women in mind. Plus, the boots even come with a 50mm light strap for power.
The problem people encounter with the QST Access Custom Heat boots is the fit. It’s a tough boot forget on your foot. And while the technology is easy to use, it’s not for everyone. Ladies with no tech-savvy skills may not want to program their boots using a phone.
Pros:
- Hike and ride technology
- Ski or walk adjustment
- Custom Heat technology that’s programmable
- Custom Heat 3D Sport Liner
- 80 Flex, better for advanced or intermediate skiers
- Ideal for groomed runs
Cons:
- Uncomfortable
- Hard to get on your feet
- High-tech boots aren’t for everyone
9. Dalbello DS MX 65 Women’s Ski Boots 2019
They may be last year’s model, but these women’s ski boots are awesome for beginners. They have a 65 flex and 105mm last. Velcro straps the top of the boot closed to keep snow out. The boots themselves are also made from a DC Hyperlite material, which is comfortable and fits well. You can even walk in these boots on the mountain if you want.
Pros:
- Highly affordable
- Super Comfort liner
- Grip Walk option
- Velcro strap along the top
- 65 flex for beginners and intermediate skiers
- DC Hyperlite material constructed to fit foot contours
- From a company that only makes ski boots
Cons:
- Only good for on-piste terrain
- Additional insulation costs extra
- Available in black only
10. Salomon X Pro X80 CS Ski Boots Women’s
Another option from Salomon, an affordable ski boot company, the X Pros are the best seller in the United States. They have an iconic twin frame construction using PU/PU to solidify a high-ranking status in the industry. These alpine boots feel comfortable and form-fitting on your feet. However, they may not last as long as some other options on the market.
Pros:
- Highly affordable and often on sale
- Two-year warranty
- 360 custom-made shell
- Custom Fit 3D liners
- Twin PU/PU constructions
- Tailored to fit your feet
- Anti-packing foam
- All-mountain performance
- 80 flex for advanced skiers, with adjustments
Cons:
- Not as durable as other ski boots
- Often out of stock at certain locations
- Only available for shipping in the United States
- Sometimes hard to put on or take off
Conclusion
With so many women’s ski boots to choose from, the decision comes down to your skill level. If you’re a beginner, you may not want to spend as much money on a top of the line boot. However, you still need comfort, performance, and warmth to enjoy the snow for long periods.
Our top pick for the best overall women’s ski boot is the Rossignol Pure Comfort 60 Ski Boots Women’s because they’re an excellent option for a beginner or intermediate skiers. They’ll keep your feet comfortable and toasty for a long day on the mountain, as will out premium choice. The Lange RX 110 W Low Volume Ski Boots 2020 Women’s are beautiful and amazing ski boots. However, they’re better for advanced skiers. For the best value product, go with the Nordica 2019 Speed Machine 105W Ski Boots. Nordica has excellent fit technology for intermediate to expert skiers but doesn’t cost as much.
Whichever you choose, these top 10 best ski boots for women have something special in-store.