How can I stop ‘shin bang’?

‘Shin bang’ or sore shins when skiing can happen for a number of reasons, but the most common we see at the Profeet Ski Lab is because the boot is simply too big.

Eliminating space from within a ski boot and securing the foot is one of the hardest problems to fix, which is why it is essential to spend the time to ensure you are buying the correct size and shape.

If you are in the unfortunate situation where your ski boot is too big you will end up sliding back and forth in the boot banging your shins against the front.

Liner and insole adjustments
We can certainly help the problem by adding foam to the liner to take up volume and fill any voids so the pressure can be distributed more evenly.

Ensuring there is a custom insole in the boot will also help stabilise the foot and limit movement.  By adding a custom ski boot liner you can secure the foot further.

However, custom liners aren’t cheap and I would only recommend this as a temporary solution. The only way we can truly solve the problem is by down-sizing you into the correct size, so it may make more sense to invest that money straight into the right boot.

Is the ‘tongue’ the problem?
Sometimes it may not be the wrong boot but the tongue just digs into your shin. In new ski boots the tongues come pre-shaped and sometimes they just won’t match the shape of your shin.

Tongues can be heated up and flattened so that they wrap better around your leg providing more contact and therefore spreading pressure.

It is important when buckling the boots to ensure you keep firm tension around the cuff of the boot.  If these buckles are loose you will struggle to control the skis and are more likely to get shin pain.

Also you should ensure that if you wear thermal leggings that they stop at the top of the boots. Do not allow them inside the boot as they will often create a pressure point where they end.

Booster Straps and shin protectors
Booster Straps are a great solution for shin problems as they help to evenly distribute pressure down the shin when flexing. They are an elasticated strap which usually replaces the power strap and pulls the liner snugly around the shin. They will also enhance performance by providing great rebound and power.

If you are in the situation where you are on holiday and have already bruised your skins skiing then you can buy shin protector pads.  These stick to your shin and provide some cushion and relief.

Visit a qualified ski boot fitter
However, it is important to visit a qualified ski boot fitter such as those at the Profeet Ski Lab to have the underlying problem addressed otherwise you will be in the same situation next time you ski.

This video explains what you can expect from a Profeet ski boot fitting appointment: