If you enjoy taking the kids out for family fun, there’s nothing like skiing. The kids love it and it creates memories that will last for a lifetime. If you take the kids skiing often, and they don’t have their own equipment, the cost of renting can really add up fast.
We all know that kids can outgrow their equipment quite quickly, but when you think of all the advantages to them having their own boots and skis, it really is worth the investment. Besides, once they outgrow their equipment, you can hand it down to the next kid or you can always try to re-sell it.
Either way, if you pick good quality ski equipment, it will last long enough for your child to use it as well as someone else’s. It can be hard to figure out what to get for your kid because there are some different factors to consider before you make that big investment.
Ski boots are a very important part of this investment, so let’s take a looks at some of the best ski boots for kids.
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Who Should Get This?
If you are planning on taking your kids skiing multiple times in the season, it can be well worth the investment of purchasing them some new ski boots. The cost of renting can add up quickly, not to mention the hassle of going to the rental shop.
Another factor that makes purchasing ski boots for your kids a great investment, is the fit and comfort of the boots. With rentals, you never know what you’re going to get. You may get a good pair but more often than not, you will get an uncomfortable, poorly fitting boot that doesn’t even keep your feet warm.
I can remember as a kid, renting boots before I had my own and getting a bad pair of boots that were cold, uncomfortable, and just did not feel right on my feet. It made for a disappointing day of skiing and that’s not the experience you want your kid to have.
If you purchase boots for them, you can get a quality boot that fits them well, is comfortable, and will even keep them warm. It makes for a much more enjoyable day out on the slopes.
Top Picks of Best Kids Ski Boots
Here, you’ll see a list of my top recommendations along with a quick review of each ski boot. The goal is to help you get to know the pros and cons of each product so you can make a more informed purchase decision.
1. Best Overall: SALOMON T2 RT
This is a great boot that is designed specifically with kids in mind. It’s not just a smaller version of an adult boot.
What we like:
- Designed specifically for kids with a thinner shell and oversized pivot.
- Modern foot positioning provides good comfort and performance.
- Very easy for kids to put on and take off.
- Easy to use light buckles.
What we don’t like:
- They are great boots but your kid may grow out of them quickly.
==> You can also get it on Christy Sports or The Last Hunt or Backcountry.
2. Best for Adjustable Size: Roces Idea
The adjustable size is great for fast-growing kids. Some kids may be able to use these for multiple seasons.
What we like:
- The size is adjustable so your kid can use them as they grow.
- Easy to adjust.
- Self-positioning liner tongue.
- Slow memory recovery foam makes the boots comfortable.
What we don’t like:
- Since the size is adjustable, not sure about the support and durability.
==> You can also get it on Utah Ski Gear.
3. Best for Value: Rossignol Comp J3
This is a great boot that has all the basic features at a great value price. These boots also have a really stylish look.
What we like:
- 3 buckle design enhances the precision fit.
- Have a soft flex which is good for young skiers.
- Great Value.
- They have a really cool look.
What we don’t like:
- It may be hard to get on for some younger kids.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Curated.
4. Best for Beginners: Dalbello Gaia 2.0
These are some very nice boots, especially for beginning skiers. They have a soft flex and are very comfortable.
What we like:
- Three-piece construction allows for great fit and support.
- Designed to be comfortable all day long.
- Kinetic Response tongue stays in constant contact with the foot.
- A lower hinge point allows better control.
What we don’t like:
- Soft flex may not be good for more advanced skiers.
==> You can also get it on Backcountry or Evo or GearTrade.
How to Choose the Best Ski Boots for Kids
Not sure how to narrow down the choices from the crowd? Take the factors below into account during your ski boot research journey.
Fit
If your child is learning to ski, you want to make sure they have a boot that fits them well. If the boot fits well it will perform better and allow your child to ski to the best of their ability.
Comfort
A pair of uncomfortable boots can make for a long and tiresome day of skiing. If your boots are not comfortable, it’s hard to want to keep skiing all day, especially for kids and this can give them a bad experience. Make sure the boots you get for your kids are comfortable enough for them to wear all day long.
Warmth
It is important to make sure that your kid’s feet stay warm while skiing, if not, they will want to spend more time in the lodge than on the slopes. Make sure to find boots that are warm.
Flex
The flex determines how stiff the boot is and how it performs. Higher flex (or a stiffer boot) is usually for a more advanced skier while lower flex boots are usually for beginners or lower skill level skiers.
Easy To Put On and Take Off
You should look for boots that are easy to put on. You don’t want to spend loads of time just trying to get the boots on their feet. I remember hating boots that were so hard to put on, I had to stomp my feet into them. You also want to be able to get them off easily.
Durability
The boots should be durable and last more than one season of skiing. Even if your kid outgrows them, you might be able to hand them down to the next child or re-sell them.
Style
This is not as important as the other items on this list, but it is nice for your kid to have some cool-looking boots. While it may not affect the boot’s performance, it can give your kid more confidence and may boost their performance.
Useful Tips and Resources
It is very important that you get the proper size ski boots for your child. Check out this video on how to size kid’s ski boots. If you purchase ski boots for your child online, make sure you check that they fit properly before they start using them. If they do not fit or are uncomfortable you can always return them and get the correct size.
Final Words
If your kids love to ski, purchasing ski boots for them is a great investment. In the long run, it will save a lot of time and money. Kids also love having their own equipment to use and take care of. It can really help to get them more involved in the sport and provide them with a lifetime of great outdoor winter fun.
Do you have any horror stories about renting your ski equipment? Give us some feedback and let us know what you think.