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Stefan Leitner
A Perfect Fit
Ski boot fitting at SPORT 2000
Interesting factsSkis
Bootfitting has been around for a long time in popular sport. Most ski boot models from mid-range and above provide the option to have the inner boot and outer shell adapted. But what exactly does that involve? And what criteria are used for this? A look behind the SPORT 2000 ski pro scenes.
The advantage
Performance and comfort
Every foot is unique. To coordinate all anatomical factors and to enable every skier to attain the maximum performance and comfort, bootfitting was adopted from high-performance sport. The advantages of the system:
- Elimination of pressure marks and blisters
- Promotion of blood flow
- Pain reduction
- Better energy transfer
- More control and trust
- Injury prevention
In concrete terms, this ensures, when skiing, among other things, easier turn initiation, more precise turns and longer ski days. A certain degree of injury prevention is given due to the better support.
The system: Fischer Vacuum example
Every manufacturer has its own bootfitting system that makes the inner boot and shell malleable through heating. You can see how exactly this process works with the Fischer Vacuum example in just two steps:
1. VACUUM 3D FOOT SCAN
Before a ski boot has even been picked, the individualisation process begins with a 3D measurement of the foot. A special scanner measure length, width and the exact anatomical shape. The results show deviations from the “standard foot” and differences between left and right. Afterwards, the SPORT 2000 ski pro analyses the result and provides a first boot recommendation which is compared with the scan in the Virtual Try On. Pressure marks are also already visible here. Regardless of the scan result, one of the two technologies is used: VACUUM ZONE FIT or VACUUM FULL FIT.
2a. VACUUM ZONE FIT
In the Zone Fit Process, the shell is adjusted where it is really necessary. Identified pressure marks or anomalies are located. Silicone pads are applied to the shell at these points and by heating the shell with heating pads, the shell is heated to the extent that it becomes malleable in certain areas.
2b) VACUUM FULL FIT PROCESS
The Full Fit Process stands for maximum individuality in bootfitting, as it involves a complete fitting of the shell in three steps:
- Heating the shell to 80° C
- Entry into the shell together with the inner boot
- Adjustment of the skier‘s standing position with the Vacuum Station
- Attachment of the cooling pads and compression pads on the outside
Above all, the patented fourth step enables the individual shaping down to the last detail. Compressed air is used to fit the entire boot to the foot and keep the shape until it cools down.
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Stefan Leitner
The authority: Masterfit University
With the SPORT 2000 Ski pros, nothing is left to chance when it comes to ski boot fitting. At all locations, employees go through special training from Masterfit University – the highest standard and global market leader in bootfitting from the USA. A course lasting several days provides scientific input and practice-related content such as:
- Anatomy and biomechanics
- Athlete assessment
- Underfoot support and construction of individual footbeds
- Range of motion of the ankle joint in snow sports
- Problems with bony protrusions and impingement syndrome (“footballer’s ankle”)
- Assessment-based problem solving
In the course of this, Masterfit University provides information on the techniques, tools, and the latest tricks of factory technicians who build the world cup race shoes for top athletes.
What doesn’t fit is made to fit
The bootfitting with the SPORT 2000 ski pros is included with the purchase of a ski boot. Depending on the system, this takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. For an external bootfitting, simply contact the ski pro and make an appointment.