A Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting, Pt. 6: Ski Boot Flex w/ Pulse Boot Labs

A Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting, Pt. 6: Ski Boot Flex w/ Pulse Boot Labs

Author: BLISTER February 23, 2024 Duration: 1:01:19

How should you think about ski boot flex patterns, and which one is “right” for you? For the latest installment of our “Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting” series, Kara Williard talks with bootfitter and Pulse Boot Lab’s Revelstoke store manager, Bryn Vickers, to cover the complex and often misunderstood aspects of ski boot flex. 


We discuss how the ankle joint and an individual’s biomechanics are the most important pieces of the puzzle; what exactly boot “flex” even means when it comes to on-snow performance; the many variables that determine what flex pattern might work best for you; and we also talk about Pulse’s latest tech, including their new foam-injected aftermarket liner.

RELATED LINKS:

Blister Recommended Shop: Pulse Boot Labs

BLISTER+ Membership: Sign Up  

A Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting Series

3D Printing & Bootfitting w/ Pulse Boot Lab (Ep.234)

Stance Balancing with Pulse Boot Labs (Ep.217)

TOPICS & TIMES

Ankle Joint = #1 Priority (3:33)

How the Body Moves (6.17)

Custom Insoles (12:49)

What is Boot Flex? (17:50)

Walk Mode Vs. Fixed Cuff (22:49)

Flex Ratings (26:27)

Forward Lean & Calf Size (33:39)

Height, Weight, & Strength (39:17)

Options for Stiffening (42:26)

Options for Softening (45:59)

Final Thoughts on Boot Flex (48:49)

Pulse’s Foam Injected Liner & Other Tech (52:51)

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:

Blister Cinematic

CRAFTED

Bikes & Big Ideas

Blister Podcast

Off The Couch


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


For anyone who has ever stood in a shop debating the merits of a new jacket or stared at a trail map while thinking about their skis, GEAR:30 is that conversation. This BLISTER podcast goes far beyond basic specs and marketing claims, offering a nuanced, often technical look at the equipment that defines our time outside. The discussion is driven by the people who live with these products: our own reviewers who are putting gear through its paces in real conditions, the designers who obsess over materials and intent, and the athletes whose livelihoods depend on performance. We also check in with the seasoned folks from our network of recommended shops, who see what works and what doesn’t after a season of hard use. Episodes dig into specific items, broader trends in innovation, and the sometimes-surprising realities of long-term testing. It’s a deep, authentic resource for anyone who appreciates the intersection of sports, design, and technology, and who believes the right tool can transform an experience. Tune in for honest, detailed talk that treats outdoor gear with the seriousness and curiosity it deserves.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 398

GEAR:30
Podcast Episodes
GEAR THERAPY: An Italian Skier in Switzerland [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:28
In our latest edition of GEAR THERAPY, Luke and Jonathan talk with Blister Member, Giovanni Saccarola (an Italian living in Switzerland), about his ski quiver, ski boots, and ski boot liner options.TOPICS & TIMES:Giovann…
GEAR THERAPY: A Mother Gets Back into Skiing — Where to Start?? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:21
When it comes to gear, we’ve all been there: loads of questions, crippling confusion, severe analysis paralysis. Sometimes you don’t even know where to start. You need some help! In our 3rd session of GEAR THERAPY, Blist…
Blister Labs: Technical Apparel Testing Update [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:55
Apparel testing, show pigs, & the underrated importance of ballpoint pens. Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss these things with our Blister Labs colleague, Melanie Peddle, who is a faculty member in the partnershi…
A Guide to Skiing in New Zealand with Outside Sports [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:01
Have you ever dreamt about skiing in New Zealand? Well, in this episode, Kara Williard talks with local Kiwi experts, John Knight and Darren Grimmett, from our Blister Recommended Shop, Outside Sports, to give us the run…
GEAR THERAPY: A Ski Patroller's Most-Pressing Gear Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:06
When it comes to gear, we’ve all been there: loads of questions, crippling confusion, severe analysis paralysis. You need some help! So in our 2nd episode of GEAR THERAPY, Blister Member & Spokane-based ski patroller, Ka…
G3’s Recyclable R3 Skis & Boards with G3 Founder, Oliver Steffen [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:16
Oliver Steffen founded Genuine Guide Gear (G3) many years ago because of his passion for innovation and problem-solving, and while this has largely been aimed at creating solutions related to gear and backcountry touring…
Blister Labs: Blister Community Reviews Update [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:28
Too often, the consumer reviews you find online are incomplete and unhelpful. But through our Blister Labs partnership with Western Colorado University & the University of Colorado Boulder, we’re working to change that.…