Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports, with over 18.5 million skiers in the U.S. alone. Regardless of skill level, proper-fitting equipment, particularly ski boots, are essential to an injury-free season.
Ski boots typically last 150 ski days before they need to be replaced. They are crucial for correctly transferring the athlete’s energy from one’s feet to the ski and the ground. If they fit too loose or too tight, it can affect the skier’s control and possibly impair the feel for the terrain, increasing the chance for injury. Most ski injuries are knee or ankle-related, accounting for over 40 percent of all accidents.
Getting fitted properly for ski boots is essential to achieving the right fit. However, standard boot fittings can be time-consuming and challenging, lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Common frustrations include long lines, uncertain sizing and boots that need to fit better.
Most ski shops today use a variety of traditional foot-measuring techniques to capture different foot measurements. Foot length is usually measured with a Brannock-type device, a measuring stick or paper, and a ruler. Instep height, corresponding to boot volume, is typically calculated with a tape measure. With multiple tools, measurements, and processes, the boot-fitting process is lengthy and somewhat clunky. With all of these factors, there must be a better way.
Accurate 3D Measurements and Data-Led Ski Boot Recommendations
Aetrex, a global leader in 3D foot scanning technology, designs and develops premium foot scanners to help consumers accurately measure their feet and find best-fitting shoes and orthotics. The Albert 2 Pro, Aetrex’s premier scanner, captures 16 complete 3D foot measurements, including length, width, girth, instep height, arch height, and pressure data underfoot, in 20 seconds or less.
Aetrex recently introduced ski boot fitting software, a game-changing solution for ski retailers and rental shops. Combining complete, accurate 3D foot measurements, including foot volume data, with analytical ski boot fit software, the program recommends best-fitting ski boot options for a customer’s unique feet within seconds.
The process begins with an in-store 3D foot scan to collect the skier’s key 3D foot measurements, including volume (high, medium or low) plus foot size data (length, width, girth, etc.). Next, the software considers the retailer’s ski boot inventory to make best-fitting ski boot matches. Boot recommendations include various styles, sizes per style and flex ratings- based on a customer’s skill level for a personalized fit.
Faster, More Accurate Fittings and Increased Customer Satisfaction
The Aetrex Ski Boot Fitter software delivers a seamless, personalized fitting experience. Skiers can find the best-fitting ski boots that fit their unique feet in a fraction of the time and with more data-driven precision. By reducing time spent on fittings and minimizing the need for trial and error, ski retailers can speed up the fit process while increasing customer service and sales.
Transform your ski boot fitting experience. Book a demo!
