Kids’ Ski Boot Sizing: Size Chart, Fit, Are They True to Size

5 Min Read

It is no secret to anybody who skies that ski boots can be darn expensive. And, if you’re a parent, you’ll already know all about how quickly children’s feet grow!

If you want to get your little ones out onto the slopes early but don’t want to spend a fortune only to find their shoes don’t fit properly, you’re in the right place.

This guide to ski boot sizing for kids will answer all your questions. From how to find the right size to how they should fit, it’s all covered here.

Disclaimer: This guide was created for educational purposes and neither offers nor replaces medical advice.

Table of Contents

Ski Boots Size Chart

Mondo Size Junior/Youth (EUR) Junior/Youth (US)
16
26
9K
16.5
27
10K
17
28
10.5K
17.5
29
11K
18.5
30
12K
19
31
13K
20
32
1
20.5
33
1.5
21
34
2
21.5
35
3
22
36
4
22.5
37
5
23.5
38
6

1

How to Find the Right Size Ski Boots for Kids

Ski boots are sized using the Mondo Point System. To make sure that you find the right size ski boots for your children, you’ll need to make sure that you know the length of their foot in centimetres. From there, you can use the above sizing chart to find the right size ski boot.

It is always recommended that children try ski boots on. To do this, remove the boot liner from the shell to get the true size. Put the child’s foot into the shell. The child will need to bend their knees slightly to allow you to estimate the space between the heel and the back of the shoe. You can do this using your fingers. If there is more than around 2.5 cm space at the back, the boot is too big.

Always make sure that the child is trying on boots wearing the socks they will use when skiing. This helps to get the best fit. Also, remember that the boot liners will compress as the boots are worn, making the boots more roomy the more that they are skied in.

2

Choosing Children's Ski Boots

Your children’s ski boots should offer support and not be too heavy. They also need to fit comfortably. Although cash strapped parents may find it tempting to size up their children’s ski boots, you shouldn’t do this. It is far easier to lose control of skis when you are wearing ill-fitting boots.

For kids who are growing quickly, adjustable ski boots are available. These allow you to adjust the boot size up to four sizes so that they grow with your child. They are ideal for beginner skiers and for parents on a budget.

Ski Boot Sizing for Kids FAQs

What’s the ideal length for children’s skis?

Ability is a large factor in choosing the right length skis for your kids. Children who are beginner skiers should have skis that go from the ground up to their chests. If your child is an intermediate or advanced skier, you should opt for longer skies. These can go up to their nose or mouth.

Is ski boot size the same as shoe size?

For beginner skiers, a ski boot that matches their normal shoe size is likely to be a good fit. However, more advanced skiers may need to go down a size from their normal size.

Should kids ski boots fit tight?

You should be able to fit two fingers between your child’s heel and the back of their ski boot. If you find yourself with more or less room, the ski boots are no longer the right size. The toe buckle should be snug but the buckle over the top of the foot should allow for more flex.

Good To Know

  • Ski boots are sized using the Mondo Point System (measurement of the foot in centimetres)
  • Beginners should have boots that match their street size
  • Intermediate or advanced skiers should opt for boots one size down
  • Ski boots should feel snug

Writer:

Colin Slager

Last Updated:

June 28, 2022

DR. KARIM MAGHRABY

Dr. Maghraby is a medical doctor and published physician scientist. He’s an avid runner and a user of sports compression gear.