Getting your boots and skis on and off smoothly is key to a good day on the slopes. You'll learn how to do it comfortably, so you can focus on skiing.

Warm boots are happy boots. If you're renting, keep them inside overnight or bring them into the lodge to warm up before you start. Wear dry, synthetic or wool ski socks, pulled up snugly without wrinkles. Avoid cotton and thick hiking socks.

Putting on your boots

1. Open up: Undo all buckles and the power strap. Pull the tongue forward to create space.
2. Slide in: Slide your foot in, then make sure the tongue is seated correctly between the liner sides.
3. Buckle up: Loosely buckle all clips. Stand up and flex your knees forward a few times to push your heel back.
4. Tighten: Sit down and tighten the top two buckles and power strap to lock your heel in. Keep the lower buckles over your foot snug but not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation.
5. Outer layers: Make sure your base layer and ski pant powder cuff are outside your boot, not tucked in, to prevent discomfort and keep snow out.

Putting on your skis

1. Prepare your gear: Separate your skis and place them side-by-side on the snow, facing downhill.
2. Clear the way: Scrape any snow off the bottom of your boot and out of the binding's toe and heel pieces.
3. Click in: Slide the toe of your boot into the binding's toe piece. Align your heel with the heel piece, then press down firmly until you hear a click.

Taking off your skis

1. Release the heel: Turn around and use your ski pole to press down and back on the heel piece of the binding. This will release your boot.

Taking off your boots

1. Reverse the process: Pull your ski pant leg and powder cuff up and out of the way. Undo the power strap and all buckles completely, pushing them aside so they don't re-buckle.
2. Step out: Pull your foot underneath you, press on the back of the boot, and flex your knee forward. Your foot should slide out easily.
3. Store them right: If you're skiing again soon, bring your boots inside to dry and warm up overnight. You can use the power straps to clip your boots together for easy carrying.

Common mistakes

• Snow in the way: If your boot or binding has packed snow, it won't click in properly. Scrape it clean.
• Over-tightening: Buckling the lower foot buckles too tightly can cut off circulation and cause discomfort or pins and needles. Keep them snug, not crushing.
• Clothing inside: Any clothing tucked into your boots can create pressure points, blisters, or circulation issues. Keep everything outside.

Learn more

Source: REI · How to Put on Skis || REI