item details
NameSki boots
ProductionUnknown; manufacturer(s); 1930s-1950s; Europe
Classificationski boots
Materialsleather, rubber, metal
DimensionsOverall: 120mm (width), 200mm (height), 315mm (length)
Registration NumberGH024115
Credit lineGift of Ian Mardell, 2012
Overview
These leather ski boots were worn with skis sometime between the 1930s and 1950s, but were not waterproof. They are essentially winter or tramping boots, adapted for skiing.
During this period, boots were attached to skis by cable binding. The binding looped a strap around the back of the boot (in the heel indentation) to hold it forward into a metal cup at the toe. This system did not allow for release in falls, and many skiers sustained leg fractures.
As the boots were relatively soft, the ankle strap allowed for some lateral control of the foot when skiing downhill.
These boots were imported for New Zealand use.