New boots for old

Question
Hi there. I asked a question back in March 08 which was answered brilliantly so here I am again.  I've got a vintage pair of Salamon Evolution 9.2's (embarrassingly about 18 yrs old) which still work fine but would advances in boot technology make it worth splashing out on a new pair? My wife got a new pair last year which she has been raving on about and I'm jealous.  Mine just seem a lot heavier and 'harder'. To save going over my longwinded circumstances, my demographics are in my last question [Skis for ACL laxity]
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Skiing-other-snow-1530/2008/3/Skis-ACL-laxity.htm
Many thanks in advance.
Chuck


Answer
Hi & thanks for the question [& link to your last question as it was answered by Ron]

I remember the Salamons - they were in a league of their own for quite some time. As were their boots. But yes i see your dilema with the skis you have and the option to go shorter or change altogether. here is some info to help with your selection.

I assume you havent had surgery to correct the ACL damage; hence your kness are not as 'tight' they should be. With this in mind, you will need to make sure the boot and binding are in top shape to protect you from further damage.

The boot needs to fit correctly so you have limited or no lateral movement within it. just as important - you should be mindful to have your bindings serviced and checked every season to ensure they will release to further reduce the risk of more twisting damage. Ask about binding developments to see what is new. Perhaps there are advancements your binding is missing. You want a binding that will release in three directions [anterior force, lateral force, posterior force].

Then we come to the skis - skis only work as well as the person on them. The boots are the conncetion between that person and the ski. Hence if they aren't right - nothing will make the ski any better. You're comment that your wife loves her skis means she has succeeded in buying a ski designed for her needs. Do you ski the same as her? If so, then yes you probably will love her skis too.

In your situation - you need to balance lightweight with arc and flex. If you prefer speed - increase the weight. If your preference is lots of turns - opt for shorter arc and a little more flex to make them snappy [note this will put a lot of strain on your knee over the course of a day]. If you like the cruisier style of skiing and want to last all day - moderate flex, medium arc and middle of the range for weight.

If you are in the market for new skis - then perhaps you can demo some on the mountain before you decide to buy [they will often deduct the cost of trying them from the purchase price].

Other considerations:
* pre-season training to strengthen your quads, abs, hamstrings & calves as these will be needed to take the strain off your knee. There are websites and books on the topic readily available.
* re-fresher lesson first day back to get helpful hints and tips needed to ensure you are standing correctly on your skis [you only have to be a little back and the extra force on the knee can be significant]
* speak to your doctor before you go about your plans and discuss appropriate pain relief and anti-inflamatory options.
* knee brace or strapping advice from a physiotherapist or sports therapist to reduce further damage and provide support.

Hope there is some useful information here for you. good luck with your search - it is an endless one that is always fraught with "but what if i find a better pair" ... i dare say much like buying a golf club!

Feel free to ask for further info if you need it

lisa