The most difficult ski challenge you'll probably ever face is not the toughest black run in resort, but finding a comfortable fitting boot that also performs well. Remember before you buy your skis, it is important to get the right boots.

Ski boots are the first piece of ski equipment that you should buy. It is crucial that your boots are comfortable, warm, and suited to your style of skiing. Unsuitable, ill fitting boots, will severely affect your comfort and ultimately dictate whether you have a great day on the slopes or one spent pining for the chalet. If you're going to spend serious money on any piece of equipment, spend it on your boots.

Here is a check list to help make sure your next ski boots are the best ever!

1. AVOID BARGAINS - GET THE RIGHT BOOT, NOT THE RIGHT DEAL Uncomfortable ski boots can ruin your expensive ski holiday so don't be persuaded by a bargain. Beginners and intermediates complain more about badly fitting boots than anything else. If you are buying your own boots get professional advice. You can find boots cheaply at discount stores, but it is unlikely that the sales people will have the knowledge required to assist you properly.

2. TAKE ADVICE FROM AN EXPERT - NOT A FRIEND! Don't be taken in by the latest well-marketed product that may not be suitable for your actual ski needs and goals. Do not take advice from a friend. What suits your best friend may not suit you. You will be skiing in your boot - not your friend! Boots should match your skill level, as well as complimenting your foot and leg shape. Find a specialist shop where you can take your boots back for minor but critical adjustments. Find a ski shop that offers as many different brands as possible.

3. TAKE YOUR TIME-LOT'S OF IT Buying ski boots is a time consuming process that too many skiers rush through. You probably spent an hour selecting your last pair of shoes -and they're made from pliable materials! A plastic boot shell will not mould to your foot's subtle nuances, even if you wear it all day, every day, for 25 years, so take your time to make the right choice. Expect the process to take hours, not minutes. You should plan to try a variety of different brands, models and sizes.

4. SHOP WHEN NOBODY'S AROUND If buying at home, it is advisable to test the boots out as much as possible before leaving for the slopes. Go to your local dry ski slope or Snowdome, so that if needed you can have them adjusted before leaving. If buying in resort, research your shop before you buy. Some resort shops use casual/seasonal labour who may not have sufficient expertise. Ask for advice on internet forums, from your ski instructor or the chalet ski hosts. During the ski season resort shops are busiest early in the morning and when the lifts close. Trade skiing time for personal attention and go when everyone else is out skiing. Remember, your feet can swell up to a half-size during skiing, so do not buy a boot that is already too tight fitting. For the best fit, shop in the afternoon or evening, or after physical activity. This is when your feet will be at their maximum size!

5. GOOD BOOTS NEED GOOD SOCKS Remember a pair of thin sports socks should be worn when buying and wearing your boots. The days of needing thick ski socks has long gone as boots now offer very good insulation. Don't forget to trim your toe nails. The feet can perspire up to one pint in a day! A good thin ski sock is advisable to move moisture away from the foot and to aid the foot to slide into the boot (avoid friction). The best sock contains the right blend of fine synthetic fibres and high quality merino wool, as well as being very thin around the top of the foot, with a light padding across the rear heel and shin. Do not wear two pairs of socks. Two pairs of socks are more likely to reduce the foot's warmth by increasing perspiration and creating bunching, thus restricting circulation, whilst thin socks allow a good fit letting your blood flow, and helping to keep your feet warm. For every two degrees that the foot drops in temperature, around twenty percent of control and function is lost - just try writing when your hands are cold!

6. TOO BIG IS A BIG PROBLEM Ski boots that are too large should not be bought. A good fitting boot feels a little tight out of the box and may remain very snug during the first few days of skiing. There's a lot of padding in the boot and it is designed to take on the shape of your foot as you break it in. Relax. Your liner will. A new ski boot liner will compress to as much as 20% over its life, so it is important that a new boot starts off snug and firm. A boot that is too large will result in the foot banging about inside the shell as the liner breaks in. Most boots initially feel short and a little tight but compress to comforta