Jim Lindsay - Building From The Feet Up

Nov 8, 2018

Jim Lindsay, a master boot fitter at BootTech in Aspen, shares his wisdom on the crucial role of boot fitting in skiing. He emphasizes that comfort is only part of the equation; customization to fit individual anatomy can transform a skier's performance. With a background in orthotics and biomechanics, Jim explains how a proper stance can significantly enhance abilities on the slopes. He also discusses the evolution of boot fitting from mere comfort to a focus on alignment and performance, debunking myths along the way.

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INSIGHT

Importance of Customized Boot Fit

Ski boots must be adapted to fit each skier's unique anatomy for optimal performance.
Proper alignment of foot and boot angles improves stance and ski responsiveness.

ANECDOTE

Changing Stance Transforms Skiing

Changing a skier's stance can immediately alter their skiing style and eliminate bad habits.
Improved stance leads to significant skiing performance enhancements without explicit instruction.

INSIGHT

Boot Fitting and Ski Geometry

Modern boot fitting considers ski width, binding height, and ramp angles for better biomechanical alignment.
These factors affect boot angles which must be integrated for optimal skiing balance and control.

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Jim Lindsay is a master boot fitter in Aspen. He works at BootTech creating customized boots for skiers. These boots can often make a huge difference in a skiers stance.

Tune in to hear us talk about the importance of a good fit, Jim’s interest in orthotics and biomechanics, and what kind of difference a properly fitted boot can make.

Topics:

[02:04] Jim says that everyone is (or should be) familiar with the idea that you can change a ski’s performance by changing its angle. Whereas most people believe that if a boot fits comfortably, there is nothing else to consider.

[02:33] Jim says it’s about adapting the boot to fit your unique anatomy.

[04:50] Jim grew up skiing in Wisconsin, then went to a ski academy in Vermont for High School.

[05:10] Once he realized what he wanted to do, he went to school in the summer to learn about orthotics, orthopedics, and biomechanics of the lower extremity.

[05:30] Even though he works at the bottom of a major mountain, he doesn’t get to ski every day of the season.

[05:53] Throughout the 80’s he did boot fittings at the Aspen Highlands. Then he did speciality Orthotics in Aspen under the Gondola, as well as a shop at Snowmass.

[06:35] Once Jim fit someone in a boot, it would improve their skiing significantly.

[07:02] The simple thing of changing someone’s stance can greatly improve their abilities.

[07:45] In the 80’s, boot fitting was primarily focused on comfort.

[12:40] Jim explains his method to fitting different types of boots and what you can do to improve your fit, based on your needs.

[16:00] Jim continues to fit Jason into a boot and discusses the consequences of an ill-fitting boot.

[19:00] Jim’s ski philosophy and how it relates to boot fitting.

[19:50] It’s important to talk to your boot fitter and communicate your needs.

Quotes:

“...Adapting the boot to complement your anatomy and making your angles and the boots angles all fit together.” -Jim Lindsay

“Very often, someone’s needs will determine what type of boot they have.” -JIm Lindsay

“If the first thing your boot fitter does is go through and evaluate a whole bunch of things about your anatomy, instead of asking you what type of terrain you like to ski and what size shoe you wear, that’s a bad sign.” -Jim Lindsay

Resources:

Wagner Custom Skis

BootTech Inc.