Analysis

The process begins with a complete lower leg and foot analysis. During which the bone structure of the foot and lower leg is analysed and recorded as are all bunions, bone spurs, and other hot spots. Ankle biomechanics, affecting neutral balance in the boot, are then measured and documented for accommodation during the fitting process.

Consultation

During the consultation, the results of the analysis are shared with the customer. A series of questions then follow geared towards better understanding the skier's ability, choice of terrain, past experiences and ski boot requirements. The proper model is then selected based upon the skier's feedback and the knowledge gained through the analysis.

Length & Width Measurements

Length and width measurements are indeed necessary for any well fit ski boot. However, to fully customize a ski boot to each individual's needs, the process just begins with these measurements.

Foot Volume Measurements

Volume measurements are absolutely critical for the full customization of the boot. Whereas most shops only take length measurements, try to gauge width and pick a few models off the rack that could potentially fit the customer, DaleBoot takes a series of volume measurements to remove any doubt whatsoever from the process. Length, width and all volume measurements are used to fully customize the boot to each individual's lower leg and foot dimensions.

Leg Volume Measurements

Leg volumes differ dramatically between skiers and in order to provide an exact fit, these measurements are taken and analyzed by our staff at DaleBoot. All measurements, length, width, foot volume and lower leg volumes are then compared to the internal measurements of the shell in order to determine what modifications are necessary in order to provide the perfect fit.

A Scan of the Feet

A scan is then taken of the foot to better analyse arch height, weight distribution and pressure points under the foot. The scanner also provides additional data on the bio-mechanics of the ankle and how it functions during forward flexion. A series of tests are then performed on the skier to determine their flexibility, the mobility of their arches and the degree of pronation or supination of their feet.

Scan Analysis

The scan is then further analysed and the data used to visualize the foot in different DaleBoot shells. The combination of the prior analysis, the measurements taken and the actual visualization of the foot allows the boot technician to pick the proper shell and liner combination for each skier.

Shell Customization

The shell is then modified to accommodate all length, width and volume measurements, as well as to offset any pressure points caused by bone spurs, bunions, or previously broken bones, etc. At DaleBoot, the manufacturer makes all modifications for our partners and our customers. We use the original lasts, from which the boots were manufactured, to actually make the modifications. The original lasts allow us to maintain the integrity of the shell while performing the stretch, whether widthwise, lengthwise, or both. In addition, as our shells are produced from virgin plastic, modifications made to the shell remain for the life of the boot. All other manufacturers rely on their broad distribution chain to make limited modifications, to shells made from cheaper, recycled plastic, using a variety of tools developed for a broad range of products. This is a significant DaleBoot difference.

Eliminating Hot Spots or Pressure Points

Once the shell has been completely modified to fully match the lower leg and foot specifications of the skier, the boot is ready to be further customized. We then refer back to the foot and lower leg analysis and pad pressure points, bunions, bone spurs or other foot anomalies to further alleviate any hot spots.

Liner Customization

Although issued the original patent for foam injected liners in 1971, we left that technology back in the 70's. We use a thermo-moldable liner, constructed from various densities of Ultralom EVA that is heated and molded directly to the contours of the skier's lower leg and foot. The EVA liner is far lighter, warmer, and easier to get in and out of than the older foam injected liner. In addition, the EVA liner is easily modified to accommodate any natural or unnatural changes to the foot or lower leg dimensions over the life of the liner.

The Fitting

The skier’s padded feet are then loaded into the boots for the molding process which takes all of ten minutes to complete.

Cant Correction

Once the fitting has been completed, the skier's lower leg shapes are analyzed and the boots cant corrected to provide neutral balance on the ski.

Relaceable and Cantible Soles

The sole units (both front and back) are then replaced with properly canted soles based upon the results of the leg shape analysis.

Neutral Balance on the Ski

Cant correction provides the skier with neutral balance on the ski. Neutral balance greatly enhances power transmission to the ski’s edge, allowing the skier to more easily effect turns and to ski in better control. At DaleBoot we cant correct closest to the snow by replacing the sole units, providing the most precise cant correction available on the market today.

The Final Test

At DaleBoot, providing fully customized, high performance ski boots is our only business. We've been doing it now for forty years and have led the industry in several design innovations over these many years. We believe in our products and our processes so fully that any fit adjustments needed over the life of the boot are on us, free of charge. Come see what a truly customized ski boot will mean to you, your feet, and your skiing ability. You won't regret it..!