How to Size Telemark Ski Boots

Buying Telemark boots online doesn't have to be complicated.

Over the years, one of the most common questions I've received is, "What size Telemark boots do I need?" This guide walks you through the process I use to help customers determine the correct Mondo size before ordering.

Whether you're buying your first pair of boots or replacing an older pair, my goal is to help you get the right fit the first time.

In This Guide

• Why Telemark Boot Fit Matters
• Step 1 – Measure Your Feet
• Step 2 – Determine Your Mondo Size
• Step 3 – Understand Boot Fit
• Scarpa Half vs. Whole Sizes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Need Help?

Why Telemark Boot Fit Matters

Unlike alpine ski boots, Telemark boots need to perform while skiing, touring, climbing, and flexing at the bellows. A properly fitting boot improves:

• Ski control
• Comfort
• Touring efficiency
• Warmth
• Overall performance

Taking a few minutes to measure your feet now can save a lot of frustration later.

Step 1 – Measure Your Feet

Before you start looking at boot sizes, you'll want to know the actual length of your feet. Telemark ski boots are sized using the Mondo Point system, which is simply your foot length measured in centimeters.

The good news is you don't need any special tools. A piece of paper, a pencil, and a tape measure or ruler are all you need.

Here's the process I recommend:

1. Put on the ski socks you normally wear.
2. Place a piece of paper on a hard floor against a wall.
3. Stand with your heel lightly touching the wall and your full weight on that foot.
4. Have someone trace around your foot, or carefully trace it yourself while standing.
5. Measure from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe.
6. Repeat the process for your other foot.

Always use the larger measurement when choosing your boot size. Most people have one foot that's slightly larger than the other, and sizing for the larger foot usually provides the best overall fit.

For the most accurate results, measure in centimeters, as that's the standard used for Mondo sizing.

Pro Tip

Measure your feet later in the day if possible. Just like after a long day of skiing or hiking, your feet naturally swell a little as the day goes on. Measuring when they're at their largest helps you avoid buying boots that feel too small on the mountain.

Step 2 – Determine Your Mondo Size

Now that you've measured your feet, it's time to determine your Mondo Point size.

The Mondo Point system is the standard sizing system used for Telemark, alpine, and backcountry ski boots. Unlike U.S. shoe sizes, Mondo sizing is simple—it's based on the length of your foot in centimeters.

For example:

If your measurement falls between whole sizes, I generally recommend rounding up to the nearest half size. For example, if your foot measures 27.3 cm, I'd start by looking at a 27.5 Mondo boot.

Keep in mind that this is your starting point, not necessarily your final boot size. Different manufacturers and even different boot models can fit differently depending on the shell shape, liner, and intended performance. That's why it's important to understand the fit characteristics of the boot you're considering.

For Scarpa telemark boots, I also recommend reading my guide on half and whole shell sizes, since not every Mondo size uses a unique shell. Understanding how Scarpa sizes their boots can help you choose the best fit for your needs.

Next Step: Learn how Scarpa shell sizing works in my Scarpa Half & Whole Size Guide.

Pro Tip

Don't try to convert from your everyday shoe size if you can avoid it. Shoe sizes vary widely between brands, while a measurement in centimeters gives you a much more accurate starting point for choosing the correct Telemark boot.

Step 3 – Understand Boot Fit

Now that you know your Mondo size, it's important to understand that not every Telemark boot fits exactly the same.

Think of your Mondo size as your starting point. From there, the shape of the boot becomes just as important as the length.

Every manufacturer designs boots a little differently. Some boots fit a narrower foot, while others have a little more room through the forefoot or toe box.

In general:

• Scarpa boots tend to offer an average, medium-volume fit that works well for many skiers.
• Crispi boots are often preferred by skiers with narrower feet. 
• Other manufacturers may have their own unique fit characteristics depending on the model and generation.

Even within the same brand, two different models may fit differently. That's one of the reasons I always recommend looking beyond just the Mondo size when choosing a boot.

If you're buying a used pair from Freeheel Life and have questions about how a particular model fits, don't hesitate to reach out. After years of skiing and selling Telemark gear, I'm happy to help point you in the right direction.

Remember

Your Mondo size tells you how long the boot should be.

The boot manufacturer and model determine how the boot feels on your foot.

Getting both right is the key to ending up with a comfortable, high-performing telemark boot.

Scarpa Half vs. Whole Sizes

One of the most common questions I receive is:

"Should I buy the whole size or the half size?"

The answer isn't always as straightforward as you might think.

All Scarpa Telemark boots share the same shell between half & whole sizes. Understanding how Scarpa sizes their boots can help you make a more informed decision—especially when buying used gear online.

Rather than trying to cover everything in this guide, I've put together a dedicated resource that explains how Scarpa shell sizing works, what it means for fit, and how to decide which size is right for you.

👉 Read my Scarpa Half & Whole Size Guide

Why It Matters

If you're shopping for Scarpa Telemark boots, spending a few minutes understanding their sizing system can help you choose a boot that fits your feet and your skiing style with more confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my alpine ski boot size?

Not necessarily.

While your alpine ski boot may provide a rough starting point, I always recommend sizing based on your actual foot measurement in centimeters (Mondo Point). Different boot brands and models fit differently, and measuring your feet is the most reliable way to choose the correct telemark boot size.

Should my Telemark boots feel tight?

Yes—but not painfully tight.

A properly fitted Telemark boot should feel snug with minimal heel lift and very little extra room around your foot. Keep in mind that most liners will pack out and become slightly roomier after several days of skiing.

A boot that's too loose can reduce control and make skiing less enjoyable, while a properly fitted boot provides better performance, comfort, and confidence on the mountain.

What if one foot is bigger than the other?

That's completely normal.

Most people have one foot that's slightly larger than the other. When determining your Mondo size, always use the measurement from your larger foot. It's much easier to fine-tune the fit of a slightly smaller foot than it is to make a boot that's too small feel comfortable.

Should I wear thick ski socks?

Generally, no.

I recommend measuring your feet and skiing in a normal-weight ski sock. Modern Telemark boots are designed to fit with a performance ski sock, and wearing extra-thick socks often creates pressure points rather than adding warmth.

If your feet tend to get cold, improving circulation with a properly fitting boot is usually more effective than simply adding thicker socks.

Can I determine my size from my everyday shoe size?

You can use your shoe size as a rough reference, but I wouldn't rely on it when purchasing ski boots.

Shoe sizes vary significantly between manufacturers, while Mondo Point sizing is based on an actual measurement of your foot. Taking a few minutes to measure your feet will almost always lead to a better fit.

Need Help?

If you're still unsure after measuring your feet, I'm happy to help.

Whether you're buying your first setup or replacing a pair you've skied for years, I'd rather answer a few questions beforehand than have you end up in the wrong size.

Email: team@freeheellife.com

Text me: 801-450-9986

My goal is simple: help you spend less time worrying about gear and more time enjoying Telemark skiing. If I can help you find the right boot, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always happy to help.

— Josh