A plug ski boot, also known as a race or high-performance ski boot, is a type of ski boot that is designed for advanced skiers who are looking for maximum precision, control, and power transmission from their equipment. These are often ski racers or former ski racers who are still charging hard on the hill.
The main difference between a plug ski boot and a normal ski boot is the level of customization and stiffness. Plug boots are typically more customized to the skier’s foot and have a higher degree of stiffness, which makes them more responsive and precise. They also have a narrow last, which means they are designed to fit skiers with narrower feet or skiers who are willing to work with the boot fitter to customize the shell by stretching or grinding it to make the width work.
NOT Plug Boots
Plug ski boots are typically made with a thicker plastic shell than a regular ski boot, which provides the extra stiffness and support needed for aggressive skiing. They often have a taller cuff and a higher range of motion, which allows for more power transfer and control when carving turns or skiing at high speeds.
The downside to all of this is that they can be very uncomfortable with many hotspots. Few people can pull a pair of plug boots out of the box, throw them on their feet and not have some issues. So if you don’t have a good boot fitter, it can be very hard to live happily with them.
Oh, and one more thing. They are a real pain in the ass to put on and take off, but if you get a pair dialed, there is nothing better to charge down the hill in.