Boot Dilemma

[scrapster]

Okay, I have some choices ahead of me. It turns out that I've been riding in boots about 1.5 sizes too big. I probably should move down to the tiny-sounding size of mondo 24. That raises a few questions:

1. I've already spent like a fiend on gear this season. I have enough left to get a nice, modern pair of boots, but would have to wait a few months to spring for BTS (pun intended). OR, I could pick up a slightly older pair of Raichles and get BTS immediately.

2. Do orthotics and other custom footbeds effect boot sizing? At 25.5, my AT boots have felt great with orthotics--extremely comfy after hours of riding. The problem is, their stiff flex isn't helping my riding. Its almost impossible to compress my body and bed at the ankles without riding hard and fast. But, given their comfiness, I've been loathe to give them up. Jumping down to a lower size and taking my orthotics with me just seems risky--but probably necessary.

3. Just curious, does anyone know which is a stiffer boot (stock) the Head Stratos or Deeluxe 325?

Any and all advice is appreciated.

[b0ardski]

If your AT boots ride well on the stiffer end keep them as is.
sounds like you need a softer flexing, powder & lowspeed friendly boot. The Raichle 325 or even 225 will give you flex & range of motion for powder bumps & trees. definitely go with moldable liners and if you can't afford another orthotic you can swap the footbeds you already have.

I love my 224s for powder and all around riding and use stiffer blax(like heads) or AT boots for hard carving & skiing.