An age-old axiom states that in the world of skiing, you should “date your skis, but marry your boots.” And, trust us, there’s a lot of truth in that statement! That’s because trying different pairs of skis has very low risk. Neither does it ruin your day to ski on them, and you can always easily sell it to someone else. But women’s ski boots are a different story, for their comfort is the only factor that affects how good or bad a day you have on the slopes. This is where Backcountry ski boots for women come in. And often, it takes multiple trips to a boot fitter to get that comfort dialed in. So it’s worth taking your time when you’re shopping for boots. Try a bunch on, make sure you choose a boot that fits you well, that you’ll want to ski in for years.
After all, you’re investing in your own happiness when you’re shopping for boots, and it’s not worth rushing. That said, it can be hard to narrow down your options to the boot you’re going to metaphorically marry. There are so many choices and features out there, and it can be hard to wade through all of the options. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 13 best Backcountry ski boots for women, so you don’t have to.
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K2 BFC 95 Heat Ski Boot
13
We begin with one of the best Backcountry ski boots for women, the K2BFC 95 Heat Ski Boot. The three letters in the acronym really sum up this boot. Basically, BFC means “Built For Comfort,” and that’s all that this ski boot is about. The brand pulls out all the stops, making sure that this boot fits as many feet as possible and that too comfortably and without requiring to modify the shell. Thanks to the roomy 103 mm last, the boot has room for the widest of women’s toes. Moreover, the’s unique design of this K2 boot means that you can put them on and take them off with just one hand.
However, the best part of the boot is the in-built heating system, which keeps your feet toasty for up to 19 hours! So, whether a blizzard rolls in or you generally just feel cold, all you need to do is crank up the feet. Also, you’ll not have issues of tingling arches or numb toes after skiing. If you’re tired of struggling with not-so-comfortable cold feet and women’s ski boots, then the K2 BFC 95 Heat is your answer.
What We Love:
When you have a ski boot where you can use your phone to control the amount of heat within, what more could you want?
Pros:
- GripWalk outsole.
- Bluetooth controlled heated liners keep feet warm.
- two-piece, four-buckle design.
Cons:
- The customization of fit is lesser than other boots.
Nordica Strider 115 DYN Ski Boot
12
The Nordica Strider 115 DYN Ski Boot is not just one of the best women’s Backcountry ski boots, but it’s also one of the overall best ski boots for women. This do-it-all boot is perfect for both resort and backcountry skiing, thanks to the generous 46-degree range of motion. That, along with an aggressive 115 mm flex, allows you to tackle tough terrains with ease and ensure efficient uphill strides. Moreover, the versatile last of 100mm accommodates a variety of foot widths for women. The stiff spine and sole optimize the energy transfer to skis as well. On the other hand, the softer cuff and shell ensure a precise and comfortable fit. In fact, you can even customize the shell and the liner for a more refined fit. Finally, the Primaloft insulation keeps your toes toasty on frigid days on the slopes, ensuring that you aren’t freezing by apres-ski.
What We Love:
The Nordica 115 women’s ski boots blend uphill mobility and excellent downhill performance, giving skiers the freedom to explore.
Pros:
- Offers precision while descending steep terrains.
- A versatile 100mm last.
- Impressive cuff rotation.
Cons:
- Bulkier as compared to others.
Rossignol Pure Elite 70 Ski Boot
11
Are you on a budget? One of the most value-for-money Backcountry ski boots for women is the RossignolPure Elite 70 Ski Boot, which costs just 350 USD. This all-mountain ski boot is designed for control, comfort, and warmth. The boots boast a slightly narrower 98 mm last that’s specifically designed for a more responsive and snugger fit. What’s more, the 70 flex offers substantial comfort and forgiveness, which means that your feet won’t be screaming for you to stop after just a few runs.
That said, you’ll love the two-piece, four-buckle design on the boots as well, which offers edge control and a reliable fit. The OptiSensor merino wool-filled liners are naturally odor-resistant and keep your feet breathable for all-day comfort. Finally, they’re also heat-moldable, so you can get some custom boot benefits sans the high price tag.
What We Love:
The thermo-moldable liners and plush faux fur design make this one classic alpine boot.
Pros:
- Custom liner offers warmth and comfort.
- The two-piece, four-buckle design is great for control and fit.
- The combiantion of the 98mm last and 70 flex offers responsive control and lots of comfort.
Cons:
- While they’re relatively light for alpine boots, they’re slightly heavy as compared to the others.
Full Tilt Soul Sister 100 Ski Boot
10
The Full Tilt Soul Sister 100 Ski Boot is one of the best women’s Backcountry ski boots. There’s a lot to like about this women’s three-piece ski boot, starting with the balance of performance and comfort. Three lean forward positions allow skiers to adjust the boot to their preferred stance. What’s more, the intuition liner wraps nicely around your foot for enhanced power transfer from the feet to the ski. Additionally, the wide last of 100mm, along with the customizable liner and shell, allows for a more precise fit. Are you an intermediate skier? You can even swap out the level 8 flex for softer or stiffer tongues (sold separately), depending on where and how you’re skiing. All in all, the Full Tilt ski boot is equally at home, weaving through some off-piste trees, in the park, or on the groomers.
What We Love:
This fully customizable boot is the perfect all-mountain women’s ski boot, with the highlight being the swappable flex.
Pros:
- The J-shaped foam on both sides increases heel and ankle hold.
- Comes with an array of adjustment features.
- Widetrack Buckle system increases durability and precision.
Cons:
- Some skiers said that the buckle system is slightly hard to use.
AtomicHawx Prime XTD 95 Tech Alpine Touring Boot
9
The AtomicHawx Prime XTD 95 Tech Alpine Touring Boot is one of the best Backcountry ski boots for women. This is the perfect touring boot for those who want to increase their time in the backcountry. For one, intermediate skiers will love that the smooth 95 flex responds reliably. Plus, the medium 100mm last fits most women with feet of average width and with mid-to-high insteps. But, that’s not all. The touring flex zone in the liner offers a comfy uphill feel, while the energy backbone betters power transmission when you’re going downhill. When you’re ascending, another nifty aspect is the frictionless pivot which betters enhance natural movement. If that wasn’t enough, the GripWalk soles handle slick parking lots and icy boot packs well. Finally, the thermo-moldable anatomical liner enhances fit and comfort.
What We Love:
This insulated alpine touring boot blends downhill performance and uphill comfort and is the perfect companion for dabbling with backcountry runs.
Pros:
- Customization of fit.
- Reliable and familiar buckles.
- Durable and progressive flex.
Cons:
- Some skiers mention that the ankle range of motion is limited.
Scarpa F1 LT Alpine Touring Boot
8
The ScarpaF1 LT Alpine Touring Boot is one of the best balanced, all-around women’s Backcountry ski boots you can find in the market. Firstly, the Scarpa F1 LT goes uphill like a dream, with the shell and liner working together to offer more range of motion than your ankles are capable of, as well as frictionless action. Moreover, for intermediate to expert backcountry kiers, the F1 LT is stiff enough, both rearward and laterally. Furthermore, they can do so in any conditions, any terrain, and any gear. Besides the forward flex profile being better than one would expect, the Scarpa F1 LT offers a superb “out of the box” fit for average-footed testers. However, what’s pleasantly surprising is that even wide-footed testers can make it work with shell adaptations. Finally, you’ll like that there’s enough room in the shell for your toes to get blood, keeping them warm.
What We Love:
This highly regarded ski boot is perfect for light and fast ski touring and ski mountaineering.
Pros:
- The flex and stiffness is perfect,
- Free-pivot cuff.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned that the transitions are slightly finicky and cold.
Salomon S/Max 120 GW Ski Boot
7
One of the most solid and confidence-inspiring Backcountry ski boots for women is the Salomon S/Max 120 GW Ski Boot. There’s a lot to love about these sexy-looking yet solid ski boots for women, beginning with the polyurethane shell that balances rigidity and weight savings. Secondly, the solid 98mm last fit narrower feet perfectly for limited movement and slop, making these perfect for advanced skiers. Moreover, the powerful and stuff 120 flex ensures high-quality performance and precision on powder. But, that doesn’t mean that these boots are only about toughness. For instance, the thermo-moldable liner conforms to skiers’ feet for better-enhanced performance. Wrapping up the features is the four-buckle, two-piece design that ensures a reliable feel and fit and the Gripwalk soles that offer exceptional traction.
What We Love:
Whether it’s sunny on the slopes of the best Lake Tahoe ski resorts or the forecast calls for snow, this Salomon women’s ski boot can be trusted to powerfully transfer energy to the edges and keep your heel locked in place.
Pros:
- The Gripwalk soles and the shoe on the whole inspires confidence.
- The 120 flex and 98mm last offer enhanced precision, power, and performance.
- The four-buckle, two-piece design.
Cons:
- The stiffness might be a bit too harsh.
Atomic Savor 25 Cross Country Ski Boot
6
One of the best women’s Backcountry ski boots is the Atomic Savor 25 Cross Country Ski Boot. The well-designed and sleek Nordic ski boots are designed for light rails and groomed tracks. The boots boast a water-resistant upper that keeps socks dry in powder while wicking sweat at the same time. Moreover, the zippered lace covers that cover the standard laces prevent ice and snow from building up. Are you worried about heel lift? Fret not, for the internal heel counters limit the heel lift while improving torsional rigidity. The versatile binding compatibility ensures that you can use your setup. Finally, the 105mm last allows for your toes to spread naturally for both balance and comfort.
What We Love:
For those who’re looking for all-day comfort and rigid performance, this winter ski boot is just what you need.
Pros:
- It has a snug fit around the heel.
- The cuff construction makes it easy to put it on and take it off.
- Lightweight and user-friendly.
- Very inexpensive!
Cons:
- Some might find it a bit tight.
Tecnica Cochise 95 Dyn GW Alpine Touring Boot
5
One of the most versatile Backcountry ski boots for women on this list is the Tecnica Cochise 95 Dyn GW Alpine Touring Boot. Ideal for both backcountry skiing and in-bounds resort skiing, this ski boot boasts a 99mm last, maximizes control, and minimizes heel slip. Besides all-day comfort, the 95 flex balances both power transmission and forgiveness. As tough-seeming as this boot is, it’s equally good-looking too. This is evident from the four-buckle and two-piece design, which also offers a reliable fit as a perk. The Burly walk mode offers peace of mind when you’re walking downhill and especially inspires confidence in newbies. Moreover, the thermo-moldable liner locks in your ideal feel and fit without making it seem like your feet are suffocating from lack of space. Finally, the GripWalk sole makes navigating parking lots and ridges a breeze.
What We Love:
These camp green ski boots are perfect for skiers who love splitting their time between resort and backcountry and don’t want to end up buying two boots.
Pros:
- Excellent two-piece, four-buckle design.
- GripWalk sole excellent for navigation.
- Lots of space within boot.
Cons:
- The liner feels heavy.
Fischer RC Classic Boot
4
One of the best women’s Backcountry ski boots is the Fischer RC Classic Boot, which is one classic Nordic boot for enhancing your pace on the slopes. There are a lot of features that help with this, starting with the thermo-formable heel cap and cushioning that allows for a customized fit. Secondly, the breathable membrane offers waterproof protection, while the cozy fleece lining infused with Fischer Fresh keeps odors at bay. If that wasn’t enough, the forefoot insulation even keeps your toes cozy and toasty warm, so you aren’t shivering by apres-ski. Moreover, the flex grooves and flat construction allow for smooth kicks and stable glides. Finally, the speed lock lacing system allows for a quick, secure pull-and-go fit so that you can zip off to the slopes.
What We Love:
The RC is perfect for skiers who need customization of fit and toasty support as they begin speeding up on the track.
Pros:
- Cozy fleece lining infused with Fischer Fresh to keep odors away.
- Keeps your toes and feet warm.
- Perfect for picking up speed on powder.
Cons:
- Sells out quickly!
Tecnica Zero G Tour Scout Alpine Touring Boot
3
The Tecnica Zero G Tour Scout Alpine Touring Boot is one of the most lightweight touring-specific Backcountry ski boots for women. When you want to access fresh lines of powder, there’s no better boot than this one, which boasts a stiff 115 flex. It’s perfect for hard-charging shredders and zipping down the slopes at mind-blowing speeds and precision. The 99mm last blends comfort and performance, with the 55-degree range of motion ensuring efficient uphill strides. The Grilamid shell adds to the performance while maintaining stiffness and yet staying lightweight. The ultralight liner with laces snugly hugs the feet for supportive comfort, while the shell can also be customized for a precise fit. Wrapping up the features are the Vibram rubber soles that offer excellent levels of traction on icy boot packs.
What We Love:
It’s hard not to like this Tecnica boot, which has an impressive double blocking mobility cuff system and a 55-degree cuff rotation in walk mode.
Pros:
- Proven style.
- Lightweight, weighing just under 2 lbs.
- Excellent downhill performance.
Cons:
- One of the most expensive ski boots on this list.
Lange XT3 90 Alpine Touring Boot
2
Yet another of the excellent women’s Backcountry ski boots is the Lange XT3 90 Alpine Touring Boot, which showcases its performance both uphill and downhill. There are a number of fabulous things about this boot, such as the medium-stiff 90 flex that offers enhanced control for skiers who’re advanced to advanced levels – pun unintended! What’s more, the thermo liner allows a customizable fit for comfort, while the “Precision Fit” 100mm last provides a precise, race-inspired fit. Thanks to the high forward ROM on the walk mode, it lessens your fatigue on the skin track. But, that’s not all. The ski mode offers both power and precision for the sake of performance while descending, while the lightweight and dynamic shell add to the performance. Finally, like most other good ski boots, the GripWalk soles provide superb traction on the boot packs.
What We Love:
Engineered to go both up and down, this lightweight, comfortable, and moldable boot is one of the best cross-over boots for great free-touring performance.
Pros:
- GripWalk soles add traction.
- The medium stiff flex and precision fit offers offers excellent fit for enhanced control.
- The dynamic and lightweight shell.
Cons:
- On the expensive side.
Dynafit Speed Alpine Touring Boot
1
Topping the list of the best Backcountry ski boots for women is the Dynafit Speed Alpine Touring Boot. Efficiency-focused skiers will love this dedicated backcountry touring boot, which has a 103mm last. Thus, it caters to a range of wide foot shapes and offers a comfort-oriented fit at the same time. But, that’s not all. Thanks to the heat-moldable liner, you can be assured of a fully customizable fit. Furthermore, you even have two micro-adjustable buckles that make it very easy to dial in your fit on the fly! The adjustable lean angle lets you fine-tune your stance, while the ultra Lock walk mode makes it easy to switch between the different modes. Wrapping up the features is the Grilamid shell, which offers superb levels of descent flex.
What We Love:
Perfect for both walking and ski mountaineering, this alpine touring boot with a range of cuff mobility is a dedicated touring boot that works wonderfully well both on and off-piste.
Pros:
- Innovative and lightweight build,
- Excellent for both on and off-piste tours.
- Offers great levels of descent flex.
Cons:
- None, really.
How To Choose The Best Backcountry Ski Boots for Women?
There are a whole lot of brands and choices when it comes to women’s Backcountry ski boots. The brand gets people who’re outdoorsmen. The fact that women cannot don ski boots for men is plain and simple, but choosing women’s Backcountry ski boots is more than just that. Just like women’s winter travel shoes or women’s waterproof hiking shoes, their ski boots are specific to women’s feet. So, what should you look for when buying Backcountry ski boots for women?
Recommended Use
Different disciplines of skiing require different types of ski boots. For instance, downhill boots are perfect for everyone from beginners to experts and better for downhill skiing. Moreover, race boots are special kinds of downhill boots with an aggressive stance, dense liners, and a narrow fit. Yet again, you have side-country boots, which are like downhill boots but add adventurous elements, have rubble sole inserts, and have both ski/hike features. Finally, alpine touring ones are designed for both ascending and descending, while freestyle ones are downhill boots with shock-absorbing features. That’s why you’ll find the choices in the filters on the Backcountry website, such as telemark skiing, cross-country skiing, alpine touring, and alpine skiing.
Last/Width
A ski boot’s width is called the “last,” and different brands, obviously, feature different lasts. Usually, the more advanced the ski boot, the lesser is the last (i.e., narrower) since advanced skiers prefer a tighter fit for precision control. Generally speaking, the last numbers of ski boots range from 98 mm to 106 mm. Beginners’ boots should have the widest last, while experts should have the least last. But, do check for the fit, as your feet shouldn’t feel pressed, and your toes should be able to move freely.
Mondopoint (Size)
Mondopoint, a.k.a. the size of the boot, is the measurement of the ski boot in cm. Why it’s important to pick the right-sized boots is because women’s Backcountry ski boots transfer energy from the knee to the ski. So, the lesser the slippage or movement in this transfer, the faster and more accurately the ski responds. Thus, measure your size accurately by first ensuring that your toes don’t touch the boot’s tip. Secondly, leave a margin for the liner and also because feet expand with warmth. Finally, do put on a ski sock before measuring the mondopoint.
Flex
Flex is the amount of forward pressure required for the ski boot to bend. As a thumb rule, softer boots have less flex, while more reactive and rigid boots give more flex. Generally, beginners require more power and technique to flex, which is why they need softer boots. On the other hand, advanced skiers will need stiff boots since they allow precision control by reacting quicker to smaller movements. Usually, most women’s ski boots’ flex ranges from 50 to 100. A flex of 50-60 is good for beginners, while a flex of 60-80 is good for intermediate skiers. Finally, advanced skiers and experts will require a flex of 80-100.
Other Features
Besides all of the above, you’ll find many additional features that improve the performance of ski boots. For instance, there are types of liners, ski/walk/hike features on boots, flex adjustments, cuff alignment, and even buckle count, which is the number of buckles and the way they sit on the boots. Above all, women skiers need to assess their skill levels and abilities before choosing ski boots.
How are womens ski boots different?
The biggest difference between women’s and men’s ski boots is the size and the height of the boot’s cuff. Usually, women’s ski boots have a slightly wider and lower cuff. It largely depends on the anatomy since women’s legs are shorter than men’s, but they have wider feet and calves. So, they have more proportionally-sized calves than men, which is the biggest difference in women’s ski boots.
What size is 28.5 ski boot?
Usually, the size mentioned is a ski boot with a mondopoint for a comfortable fit. Usually, the performance fit of such a boot is 27.5 and generally suits women with a US ski boot size of 11.5. The same size in Europe is 44 and 9.5 in the UK.
Should ski boots be tight?
A good fitting boot should not be sloppy but rather comfortably snug. Basically, you should be able to wiggle your toes, but your heel shouldn’t move forward or back or from side to side.
