[Lucky]

My 24 year old Lange XRi ski boots (aka, the fabled "Pink Panthers") are worn out, so it is time to update to something new. I think one reason why I got so many years of great skiing out of these boats was the fitter I worked with in CA... he really knew his stuff. Wish I could fly out to CA and visit the same shop again, but that ain't happening so....

What's the best shop in the DC area for boot fitting? And is there a particular tech I should ask for?

[magnetic1]

Josh Smith (Jose) might know something...

[Fritz]

I've been using the ski center for a decade or three. Excellent knowledge on boot fitment and custom foot beds.

[}{arlequin]

I tend to stick with the same stuff so if I like something enough I'd just end up getting a newer version of what I had

but that doesn't answer your question and I've never heard quality and skis shop in the same sentence when it comes to dc

[Trak Ratt]

Originally Posted by magnetic1

Josh Smith (Jose) might know something...

X2 on Jose or at least his wife would know.

[vascott99]

having worked for Ski Chalet in Arlington...Plus being a boot fitter myself back then. I am partial to them...They had knowledgeable people and the proper tools for people with stubborn feet, bow legged etc....most issues will be corrected with custom orthotics..or a simple shim for pronated feet so your toes don't spread. Which makes a huge difference when trying different brands..

Technology has changed since I worked there and being partial to langes...I am sure much has changed. When you do decide on the place...Just wear the boots for a min of an 1/2 - 1hr...watch the ski videos and walk around...you can try those places and then buy online..Don't try too many boots and dont eat lots of salty foods (swelling) prior, wear the socks you will be skiing in as well .if you need to have them altered. i.e need them blown out or shaving the lining near your corns (if you have them) it will cost extra unless you buy them their.....

it sucks but comfy feet are critical..good luck

[Dr K]

I've worked at ski stores, too. But the best boot fitters in the area (and where patrollers from anywhere within 100 miles go) is Ski Center, as noted by Fritz. It's near AU in Northwest DC, but worth the drive. I've used Brian Beaumont in the past, but have come to feel Brian Erdly is significantly better. Buy boots that fit relatively tight for 2 reasons--boots very comfortable in the store will be loose on the slopes, and by blowing out the tight pressure point spots (which sometimes takes a extra trip or maybe two) the'll fit like a second skin. I generally ski about 25 days/year (none last year ) and know what I'm talking about.

Best time to go is weekday. Daytime is great, but evening if you can't get there in the daytime. Call first to make sure Brian Erdly is there that day 202-966-4474. Feel free to mention my (real) name followed by "the really tall patroller at Liberty."

[smdubovsky]

It Brian Eardley I mountain bike w/ him a couple times a week. I don't know squat about skiing but Brian knows his stuff. I've been riding w/ him and the Scott rep and they go on and on about orthodics, boots, patents, etc at an amazing level of detail and knowledge. Hes really gets into the orthodics and fitting. I know hes trained some kids that went on to be olympic atheletes and tests all the latest gear year round. Just don't get him started on music. Hes seen EVERYONE live and will talk your ear off

[Der ABT]

Alpine Ski Shop, they are a great bunch of guys and really know their stuff (they are in ashburn near ferrari of wash)
Tyler and Chris (owners) really know their stuff....been nothign but good to me

also they have the best bumpber stick with their initials

[eman]

Washington Ski Center (per Fritz) or Ski Chalet (which moved from Arlington to Falls Church..Seven Corners area)