Measuring "ski boot volume" isn't about taking a single physical measurement of the boot itself in cubic centimeters. Instead, ski boot volume refers to the overall internal fit and space within the boot, designed to accommodate different foot shapes, particularly foot width and instep height. While the boot's last (forefoot width) is a key indicator of volume, your individual foot measurements, especially instep height, are crucial for selecting the correct boot volume category.
Understanding Foot Volume and Instep Height
One essential measurement for determining the appropriate ski boot volume is your foot volume, which is often related to your instep height.
Based on the reference provided:
- Foot Volume Measurement: This is defined as the cm measurement from one side of the heel over and around the ankles to the other side of the heel.
- What it tells you: This measurement helps determine your instep height.
- Why it's important: Focusing on this measurement is vital, especially if you have a large instep height, as it significantly affects your ski boot choice and overall fit. A boot with insufficient volume in the instep area will cause discomfort and poor circulation, regardless of length or width.
How to Measure Your Foot Instep Height
To measure your foot instep height as described:
- Use a flexible measuring tape.
- Place the start of the tape on the floor next to one side of your heel.
- Bring the tape up and over your ankle bone and the highest point of your instep.
- Continue the tape around the back of your heel.
- Bring it up and over the ankle bone on the other side.
- Finish the measurement on the floor next to the other side of your heel.
- Note the total measurement in centimeters.
This specific cm measurement from one side of the heel over and around the ankles to the other side of the heel provides an indication of your foot's overall vertical volume and instep prominence.
Connecting Foot Measurements to Ski Boot Volume
While your measured instep height (or foot volume circumference) is critical, selecting the right ski boot volume also depends on other foot characteristics:
- Foot Length: Measured from the heel to the longest toe. This determines your Mondopoint size.
- Foot Width (Last): Measured across the widest part of the forefoot. Ski boots are typically categorized by their last width in millimeters (e.g., 98mm, 100mm, 102mm).
- Instep Height/Volume: Measured as described above.
Ski boots come in different volume categories, generally related to their last width and internal shape:
| Volume Category | Typical Last Width | Foot Profile | Instep Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Volume | 97-98 mm | Narrow foot, low instep | Snug |
| Medium Volume | 99-101 mm | Average foot, medium instep | Comfortable |
| High Volume | 102 mm+ | Wide foot, high instep, generally larger foot | More Spacious |
Note: These categories and widths are general guidelines and vary between brands.
Your instep height measurement, obtained by measuring from heel side over ankles and around the heel as described in the reference, directly influences which volume category will fit comfortably over the top of your foot. A high instep requires a boot designed with more vertical space in that area – often found in medium or high-volume boots.
Therefore, while you don't "measure ski boot volume" in the traditional sense, you measure your foot's dimensions, including your instep height using the specified method, to determine which boot volume best matches your foot shape for optimal fit and performance.
