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Skiing is an exhilarating sport that demands agility, strength, and confidence, especially in the knees!
The complex twists and turns involved in skiing can place significant forces on the knees which, over time, may lead to a variety of injuries. Thankfully, the right advice, equipment, and preparation can make a world of difference in keeping your knees in good shape and ensuring a confident ski experience.
The importance of ski boot fit and precision
When it comes to protecting the knees, a well-fitted ski boot is crucial. Proper boot fitting ensures that your movement translates accurately to the skis, reducing the risk of misalignment or instability that may lead to injury. According to Johan, Profeet’s Head Boot Fitter, fitting a ski boot involves “matching a boot to the body” by examining the shape of the foot, ankle mobility, calf shape, and even the skier’s ability and performance level. This personalised approach helps skiers feel more “locked in” and secure, which boosts confidence on the slopes.
The alignment between the foot and the boot is especially important. Misalignment can cause uneven pressure, potentially putting additional stress on the knee joint. Profeet’s expert technicians look at your anatomy, biomechanics, and leg alignment to create an optimal fit, ensuring that the cuff of the boot aligns with the leg and distributes pressure evenly.
When working with skiers who have knee concerns, Johan notes that “when people come in with previous knee issues, anxiety can become part of the equation”. He emphasises that “the goal is to help them feel secure in their boots,” achieved thanks to proper fitting combined with the right training and exercises, to strengthen the appropriate leg muscles, in preparation for skiing.
Preparing for the slopes
Proper preparation isn’t just about the right boots, it’s also about conditioning the body. Skiing places intense demands on the lower body, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings, which work to stabilise the knee. Engaging in a targeted strength programme leading up to a ski trip can help skiers build the necessary muscle support to absorb impact and maintain control.
A study from the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) highlights the benefits of quadriceps strengthening for injury prevention. Strong quads improve knee stability, which is essential for handling the turns and terrain changes in skiing. Paul, Profeet’s consultant podiatrist, stresses that while boot fitting is a big part of their service, “skiers still need to do the hard work” in terms of conditioning, as strong legs are vital for knee protection on the slopes.
Additionally, practising on a dry or wet ski slope before your trip can help familiarise your body with the motions of skiing, giving you a physical and mental edge once you’re on real snow. The combination of preparation and professional boot fitting goes a long way in creating a confident, stable skiing experience.
Common knee injuries in skiing
The high-impact nature of skiing can lead to common knee injuries, particularly sprains and tears in connective tissues. Some of the most frequent ski-related knee injuries include:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears – Sudden twisting movements, like catching a ski edge, can result in ACL tears. This may – at its worst – result in the need for surgery and rehab.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries – MCL injuries occur when there’s a force to the outside of the knee, which can happen in a fall or misstep on a challenging slope.
Meniscal Tears – Often seen in activities involving twisting, a meniscal tear can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement, especially during deep knee bends like those commonly encountered in skiing.
These injuries highlight the importance of having not only the right equipment but also adequate preparation and conditioning before hitting the slopes.
Skiing after knee surgery
Johan explains that Profeet can work with skiers who have had knee surgery, helping them find boots that offer stability without unnecessary stiffness.
Returning to skiing after knee surgery, such as an ACL repair or knee replacement should be approached progressively. Having the right equipment and fit can make a world of difference. Profeet offers customised boot solutions that can help alleviate strain for post-surgery skiers, whether their goal is to gently explore the slopes or tackle more advanced terrain.
Top tips for a safe ski experience
Seek a Professional Boot Fit – Personalised fittings ensure that your boots match the shape of your leg and foot, promoting proper alignment and even pressure distribution.
Focus on Conditioning – Build leg strength, particularly in the quadriceps, through pre-ski workouts and exercises that simulate skiing movements.
Practice on a Local Slope – Testing your skills on dry or indoor slopes helps reacquaint you with the demands of skiing and boosts confidence.
Skiing confidently and safely, especially with any history of knee issues, comes down to preparation, precision equipment fitting, and strengthening the body. If it’s been a while since your last ski trip or if you’ve had any changes in weight, mobility, or strength, it’s worth checking your equipment with a professional.
With the right support from Profeet, and a solid pre-ski regimen, you can hit the slopes with the knee confidence needed to enjoy every moment.
Call 020 7736 0046 to book your one-to-one appointment with one of our qualified Profeet technicians, or book online.
Action photos: courtesy of Salomon
OUR SERVICE IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Profeet’s services are by appointment only, please call or book online in advance