Toe box spread

Question:

For years I have struggled with boots. I used to think the intense pain was just part of the process and I was being a wimp but more recently I have discovered that skiing should not feel like nails are being driven into your feet. My issue is my toe box area of my foot tends to want to spread a lot. The outer edge especially like to spread as the day progresses. Never feel pain on the inside but always the outside starting from the toe knuckle to the midfoot. I currently ski a Dalbello Panterra which has been the most comfortable so far. The Lange RS that I had last season were extremely painful.
My question is, are there boot brands out there that are more suitable for this sort of foot? In particular, I am wondering if Technica is suitable to my foot. I will either take in my Panterras to get punched out a bit or buy new boots next season more suitable to my feet.
I am 10.5cm wide at the widest point

Answer:

Hi Robert,

You cite one of the most common issues in the ski boot industry.  Fortunately, ski boot manufacturers have done a great job providing options for wide feet without losing performance.  The best advice I can give you regarding your feet in ski boots is to support your foot with a well made custom insole.  That will limit the spread of your forefoot.  We do not carry Tecnica but have had great success with the Atomic Hawx Magna & the Nordica Sportmachine.  In some cases, we incorporate a thinner, customizable liner if needed.  All boots these days can be customized if there’s a need for extra width.
Come on in to the shop and we’d be happy to help you!  We reopen weekends in August, then 5 days a week starting September 1st, and 7 days a week starting in November.

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