How do ski boot insoles work?
A good insole can make all the difference between staying out on the slopes all day and having to head back to the chalet after a few hours in the morning, even if you’re an experienced skier.
But just what do ski boot insoles do? Well, perhaps most importantly, they add a much needed level of additional comfort, preventing tired and aching feet. But there are other key benefits.
Stability
To absorb shocks, the human foot has naturally evolved to become mobile when it comes into contact with a surface, while walking for example. The foot then stiffens at the end of a stride to aid propulsion. During this flexing and stiffening, the shape of the foot changes constantly in all directions.
As the rigid shell of a ski boot has no flexibility, they are far from being the most comfortable footwear.
Unfortunately, neither do they allow for any flexing of the foot, meaning problems can soon occur. Ski boot insoles stabilise any excessive motion and prevent the unsupported foot collapsing and pressing against the stiff internal walls of the boot.
This is why ski boot insoles will be of particular benefit from those who suffer from the infamous and very common foot problem ‘skiers toe’. This is caused by the toes banging against the end of a ski boot, with the repetitive pressure and trauma turning the toenails black.
Alignment
When the foot is held in a stable position, as mentioned above, perhaps surprisingly you’ll also feel the benefits in other parts of your body.
Your hips and legs will become straighter, meaning they are better able to cope with the forces placed on them while skiing. This not only reduces leg fatigue, but will significantly improve your control and stance.
Balance
Maintaining your balance is not always easy when you’re on a pair of skis, particularly if you’ve little experience. Again, the enhanced stability of feet resting on ski boot insoles spreads to other parts of the body, helping you to keep your balance and remain upright when skiing.
Balance is also improved as ski boot insoles distribute your weight evenly throughout your whole foot, with this increased contact area giving more sensory feedback to the brain.
