HelperElfMissy 42 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 Quick question - I was asked about availability of larger boot sizes (like a mens Aussie size 12) today and I had no answer - our family has reasonably big feet, but not that big. A friend is going to Hakuba in Feb and would like to shop in Tokyo for some new snow gear. Are bigger sizes of ski and snowboard boots available? And what about hiring? Commonly available or should they buy in Falls Creek this August? Link to post Share on other sites
RobBright 35 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 I have no problems and I am a size 30cms over here, but saying that, that has been at the more touristy locations, and eventually had to get some of my own when I went into the sticks and found them less readily available. Not unavailable. Less readily. Link to post Share on other sites
stemik 14 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 for Hakuba book early rental. Link to post Share on other sites
Myoko Guy 0 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 My friend will face the same dilemma this Christmas who is also a size 12. I'll be scouring around in the local area during my summer break but would otherwise gratefully accept any tips. Link to post Share on other sites
Jynxx 4 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 The most important equipment in ski/snowboarding is BOOTS. Renting ski/board is a great idea... sometimes you rent to check new equipment. Renting boots a no no. Sure if you are someone who is doing it for the first time, by all means. Buy your own boots for christsake, that's the best advice for you ! Uncomfortable boots means uncomfortable experience. Link to post Share on other sites
HelperElfMissy 42 Posted June 11, 2009 Author Share Posted June 11, 2009 I agree Jynxx - which is why we all have our own boots (although I will have to hire ski boots this July - I am gonna trial skiing for the first time) So ... if renting in Hakuba book them early... what about buying? If we head down to ochanomizu/ogawamachi ski shop area will I find them pretty readily in February? Link to post Share on other sites
muikabochi 208 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 Wouldn't rely on it. Why are they not taking the boots from home? Link to post Share on other sites
Jynxx 4 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 Salomon boots are good fitting. I don't know what your feet looks like, but you are a VANS girl and I wear them, too, so assuming we have similar shape feet I recommend them. The make quality is great. Very comfty. American bootmaker's association recommends them, too. Go in a shop and try them ... Link to post Share on other sites
HelperElfMissy 42 Posted June 11, 2009 Author Share Posted June 11, 2009 Originally Posted By: muikabochi Wouldn't rely on it. Why are they not taking the boots from home? Not sure - I did not know that they skied - friends from long long time ago that recently got in touch with. And just yesterday discovered they are headed to Hakuba - first timers to Japow I think they are almost ready for new boots and thought why not... but not 100% sure. We bought 3 pr of boots in the UK when we were there in Jan - mainly because the range was so much better over there - especially (for us) for kids....there is a choice of 'these 3 boys boots and these 2 girls boots, all with laces' last time I checked in Jindy ... in Perth - that is a choice of 'this pair or unisex boots and that is it!'. We REALLY wanted BOAs for the little dudes because it meant parents did not have to do up laces, and also that the kids got that bit more independence. And we are putting on hold our new board purchasing plans until we get to Tokyo - choice/range/price - all better! Link to post Share on other sites
Thundercat 60 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 If shopping for size 12 there usually isn't much of a selection, even in Tokyo in Feb. Renting will be even more of a challenge. Personally, I wouldn't leave that up to chance. Strongly advise your friends to think about getting their own before coming here. Imagine getting all the way to Hakuba (or even Tokyo) and not being able to find what you want. It would be a gutting experience. Considering the cost of a ski trip from Australia, new boots aren't really that expensive to buy. Link to post Share on other sites
SKI 15 Posted June 11, 2009 Share Posted June 11, 2009 Totally agree with Black Mountain. Bringing them will also let them enjoy their time rather than having to spend time and possible frustration trying to find some when they are here. Link to post Share on other sites
HelperElfMissy 42 Posted June 11, 2009 Author Share Posted June 11, 2009 Fair enough Black Mountain. I shall pass that advice on. Unless you are a growing kid or your boots have absolutley had it I suppose it is only the first pair that you have that trouble with - as you would always have your old ones if you did not find any new ones that you were happy with! I reckon I'd rather go through the 'breaking in process' in my home country anyway - nothing worse than boot misery on the trip of a lifetime! Link to post Share on other sites
snowdude 44 Posted June 15, 2009 Share Posted June 15, 2009 I too am a size 12 and bought size 12 or 30cm ski boots from Victoria in Tokyo, got the custom adjusted too for free. Having said that not all of the same shops sell this size and among about 30 shops I went to only this shop had a size 12 that actually felt right on me. I think in total I found about 3 shops. Mayvbe better to buy before coming over! Link to post Share on other sites
cram400 0 Posted June 15, 2009 Share Posted June 15, 2009 buy the boots that fit you in Oz and take them along.. size 12 (or 30cm) is considered to be on the large side of the boot size spectrum for japan, which means there is not as much demand for large sizes compared to, let's say, a size 9-10, which in turn means slimmer pickings of size 12 boots.. although it's possible to find size 12, you definitely run the risk of not being able find perfect fitting boots and that's no way to be spending your holiday.. btw, comments pertain only to ski boots.. not sure what the situation is for board boots.. Link to post Share on other sites
TokyoEagle 0 Posted June 15, 2009 Share Posted June 15, 2009 Had to wait a month for my size 11's to come into stock down in ochanomizu, that was in october, wouldn't risk it though. Link to post Share on other sites
HelperElfMissy 42 Posted June 16, 2009 Author Share Posted June 16, 2009 Thanks guys. I will pass that info on. Link to post Share on other sites
Sciclone 2 Posted June 21, 2009 Share Posted June 21, 2009 Boots are something that I bought locally (at Sno-biz in Brisbane). I have previously bought boots off ebay, and they turned out to be too small. The other option is sierrasnowboards.com they are pretty cheap, and with the strong AUD vs USD it could mean a bargain. Link to post Share on other sites
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