They are incredible. If you were to ask me, that’s what I’d say. They’ve given me hope with ski boots. As someone who’s worked in ski shops most of my life, I’m really excited about what these innerboots can do for skiers. They blend comfort and performance perfectly with no downside.
What makes them different to my stock liners?
The biggest difference is the material. The shape of most stock liners is created using different densities of foam that are glued together. This creates a great initial fit but over time, this foam will compress and ‘pack out’. Most stock liners last about 100 to 150 ski days. In comparison, the Zipfit uses pockets filled with a cork and wax mixture. These pockets are located in the sides of both ankles and in the tongue. This cork material will move around in the pocket to relieve pressure and fill space simultaneously. The benefit here is you get a precisely fit innerboot and the cork material won’t compress over time.
What about injected foam liners?
The traditional custom liner option is foam injected liners. These have been common in high performance and racing boots. The fitting process involves injecting an expanding foam material into the liner to fit precisely around the shape of your foot and leg. This happens in one shot and there is no room for mistakes. The end result between the zipfit and the injected liners is the same but the injection process is much more finicky.
Who are they for?
Everyone. Any skier, skiing any terrain, at any speed can benefit from a custom fit. It can be daunting for a new skier to get into this kind of process but intermediate skiers will notice a difference right away.
What Zipfit innerboots do I get?
Here’s my recommendation, sorted by popularity.
- Gara: Great for almost all alpine boots and some hybrid boots. Choose the HV if you found your stock liners packed out quickly.
- Freeride: Works better for skiers with athletic calves. It fits the same as a Gara HV.
- GFT: Just like the name, they’re Good For Touring. They work great in lightweight and hybrid touring boots.
- Corsa: Reserved for plug boots. IYKYK.
- Sidewinder: Best matched to piste skiers in firm boots. There isn’t much give in these liners. Must be ‘world cupped’.
- Workhorse: The option for those that are in their boots daily. Leather=Durability.
So I got Zipfits but they’re not working, what can I do?
Most of the issues with fitting Zipfits involve too little cork material. You can fill the cork pockets with a lot of extra cork and it takes a few days for it to move to its final resting place. If you’re feeling underwhelmed, grab a fit kit and add some more cork, it’s highly unlikely you have too much. If it feels a bit tight after adding the cork, heat up your liner with a hair dryer or boot dryer and put your boots on. The cork material will move better when heated.
What about these laces?
It’s totally up to you to decide how you want to put your boots on. The primary reason to lace your innerboots is to keep it under control if you decide to ‘world cup’ your boots on. This is Zipfit’s recommended method but in my experience most people keep their innerboots in the shell and step in as they usually would. If you choose this option, remove the laces and the power strap to make for an easier entry and exit.
These have to be the greatest upgrade to ski equipment I’ve ever seen. Their unparalleled comfort, precise fit, and superior performance have allowed me to ski all day in comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Zipfit innerboots can make a huge difference in your enjoyment and performance.
Until the next run, Happy Skiing!
Overthinkering 
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