Cinderella Syndrome (trying to find a perfect fitting ski boot).

My mate could find a pea under 30 mattresses so you can imagine finding good boot fit is a challenge.

He had a pair of Langs. He would grit his teeth so hard getting into them, I thought the molars were going to explode. He was cranky for the first chair, but after two GS turns, 'Cinderella' was all smiles. Family buddy also has Langs. He also wants to cry when putting them on but he's more stubborn and is going to make them work for him... or lose a toe, whichever comes first.

Me, I have realized that if I clinch my toes into little mini fists, I can take up the extra space in my boots. It never starts out like that. The day starts with very snug boots but after two steep runs... and I'm boot slamming.

I have learned the following Boot Laws.

Number 1. Find a good boot fitter. The rest are just nice to have, but that boot fitter is going to make a huge difference!

On a 10 degree January day, you will be very happy to have boot heaters or at least some duct tape to cover up where the snow melts into your boot.

Custom insoles. If you're a runner or you have noticed your feet burn. Tell the boot fitter. He/She can make a big difference.

Your ankle in your buckled boot should be really snug as in not being able to move. I'm afraid I learned that from 'Cinderella' when he saw that I could almost twist out of my boot. I figured locking my ankle made it better but it would explain why my feet get a little tired.

You should be able to flex your boot. In the toasty warm Ski Shop, you should be able to really move those things. Once on the cold hill, that movement is going to be sharply limited.

I'm going to get new boots but first I'm going to pull them apart and see what bracing can be added. I suspect it might be as fascinating as wax combinations for the skis or boards. And 'Cinderella'? He got a pair of Dalbellos. Family friend? Still fighting the Langs. Me? I'm going to hunt down a pair of boots that can handle a crazy high arch.

Armed with duct tape, as long as I get out there and play, I'm not proud.