When it comes to après-ski snow boots in Australia, there are several common questions that people often ask. These questions typically revolve around factors like waterproofing, comfort, warmth, style, and functionality.
What are apres-ski snow boots?
Apres ski snow boots are warm and waterproof or water-resistant boots that are worn at the ski resort or in snowy conditions when you’re not participating in snowsports. They are not suitable for skiing, snowboarding, or most other snow sports. Dog sledding or snowshoeing, however, are two possible exceptions.
Do I need après-ski snow boots in Australian ski resorts?
Although winter in Australia is warmer than most other snowy places around the globe, apres snow boots are still really important. The main reason is that given the warmer climate, this causes wetter and slushy snow. This snow and water can often be deep and dirty (especially in car parking lots), for which you’ll need taller (sorry oftentimes hiking boots aren’t going to cut it) waterproof (or at least ‘snowproof’) boots.
Also equally important are boots which have good grip for the morning icy conditions, and nighttime freezing temperatures. So apres snow boots are the best solution for Aussie ski resorts.
Can I wear my runners or other shoes instead?
We do not recommend wearing runners or other lifestyle brands of shoes to the snow in place of snow boots. The most important reason for this is the rubber and lack of grip soles. Runners and for example Doc Martens, are incredibly slippery in the snow due to the rubber. Like many other lifestyle brands of shoes, the rubber is not designed for cold temperatures, meaning that when the temperatures get below freezing, the rubber no longer grips, and instead becomes very slippery. Vibram soles found in many hiking boots are a good example of rubber which is designed for extra performance in below-freezing conditions.
Also, lifestyle shoes are generally not insulated for warmth, have little waterproofing, are a lower profile meaning water can get inside easily, and are easily ruined. It’s generally better to buy or rent some specific snow boots for you and your family.
Can my children wear gumboots instead of snow boots?
Unfortunately not. The rubber in gumboots is extra slippery in icy conditions as explained above due to the cheap rubber soles. Also, they do not provide any warmth.
How do I choose the right size for après-ski snow boots?
There are many different styles of apres snow boots. My personal preference is a boot that zips or velcros on and off quickly. This means it’s fast to get on and off while wearing all your clothing and while in cramped drying rooms or lodge doorways.
Other people prefer boots that have a better fit like laced boots. This takes more time to put on and off but offers more security and comfort while walking long distances.
Also important to recognise is affordability (generally the more you pay, the more you get for your boot), waterproofing (most snow boots are designed as ‘snowproof’), and warmth which is especially important if you’re travelling to colder climates such as those experienced in Canada or the Arctic.
Finding the right size is crucial for comfort and performance. It’s good to know that cheaper and more basic snow boots should feel like a pair of slippers. They’re cheaply made and are generally snowproof only. Expect this when buying cheaper boots for $100 and under.
Are après-ski boots waterproof?
Not always. A highly waterproof and breathable boot that has a waterproof and breathable liner is expensive and it’s also important to note that they will not be 100% waterproof in all conditions. A full rubber boot, like a gumboot, will keep 100% of the water out (or anything with a full rubber part without stitching) however this rubber is then not breathable. So if wearing these boots for prolonged periods, it’s a balance of breathability, waterproofing, comfort, style, support, and price.
Are there any specific styles or brands recommended for Australian or overseas conditions?
We stock Kamik , Attiba , and XTM apres snow boots. Kamik is a Canadian snow boot brand designed for colder temperatures, and longer-term wear with less emphasis on waterproofing (in general, not all cases). Attiba snow boots have a flip ice spike feature which sits in the sole of the boot and gives added security for icy conditions such as Japan at night in Niseko or when worn by older adults or people carrying children who don’t want to risk a fall. XTM is a more budget-conscious brand that also makes some better quality boots as well.
