Boot Fitting:
Both ski and snowboard boots are designed to hold your foot snugly to the surface of your skis or snowboard. Any movement of the foot within the boot translates into loss of control and lessens performance.
For the best fit, make sure you:
Wear only one pair of socks.
Pull up your pant gaiter and the cuff of your first layer.
Do not tuck your first layer into your boots.
Ski Boots are engineered to fit snugly. The critical area is the heel, which needs to be held tightly into the “heel cup” of the boot. Slide your foot into the boot, making sure that the tongue is pulled forward and out of the way. Push downwards on the heel of the boot to properly set your heel into the cup. Latch the buckles to a comfortable tightness, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Buckles may be readjusted after all have been fastened. Pay particular attention to the buckles on top of the instep of the foot as they hold your heel in place. When you stand up, your toes should have just enough room to wiggle. Press into the front of the boot by bending your knees. If your heel lifts up and out of the heel cup, the boots are too big. Camelback staff can be found in most locations throughout the ski resort and will be happy to assist you.
Snowboard boots fit differently than ski boots. First you open the boot bladder wide and slide your foot into the boot. Use the pull loops to get the boot onto your foot. Slide the lace lock down while tightening the inner laces until the fit is snug but comfortable. Now tighten the outer laces as tight as possible. If done properly, your toes will almost be touching the end of the boot. Stand up, bend your knees and make sure your toes are snug, but not cramped. Make sure your heel is being grabbed by the boot bladder and not lifting. As always, if you have questions or need assistance, look for any of our staff in an orange jacket or Blue Jacket with the Camelback Mountain logo. They can be found all around the ski resort and will be happy to assist you.
Ski/Snowboard Length:
Correct length is a correlation of your height, weight and ability level. Modern shaped skis and snowboards turn much more easily than those of just a few years ago.
Are You Goofy?:
Snowboarders have to decide on their stance on the board. Most people are right-foot dominant, meaning their right leg is their “balance” foot. In this case, the right foot goes in the back binding, facing the rider to the right on the board. This is known as a “regular” stance. Some people are left-foot dominant, and ride facing the left side of the board…this is known as “goofy” stance. Here’s how to tell which foot is dominant before you even set foot on the ski resort. If you run and slide on a linoleum floor in your socks, whichever foot goes second is your balance foot. This is the foot that does most of the work by supporting the majority of your weight.
Helmets:
Most snowboarders choose to wear helmets for a variety of reasons. Because beginner boarders tend to fall backwards a lot, helmets should be strongly considered. Advanced boarders like to do tricks which greatly increases the level of risk in the sport. Beginner skiers; however, tend to ski at slow speeds, and falls are usually forward or to one side. We suggest that you consider helmet use and make an informed, educated decision.