Backcountry Cross Country Ski Boots

Discover Warmth and Comfort with Backcountry Cross Country Ski Boots

Designed for a range of terrains and snow conditions beyond groomed tracks, backcountry cross country ski boots resemble hiking boots. As these boots are worn for extended periods of walking and skiing, they must offer warmth, stability, and comfort.

While backcountry, or BC ski boots, may not optimise power transfer, they provide the reliability and durability needed for lengthy treks in snowy environments. Typically made from leather, most backcountry ski boots are equipped with Thinsulate insulation to ensure heat retention. Additionally, high cuffs are included to prevent snow ingress and to offer ankle support.

Backcountry Cross Country Boots: Only for Backcountry Cross Country Bindings

When selecting backcountry cross country boots, it's crucial to ensure they are suitable for your BC bindings. The principal binding systems for the backcountry include NNN BC and the 75 mm (3-pin) toe system. These are exclusively compatible with backcountry boots. Explore our Cross Country Backcountry Binding collection for matching bindings.

Backcountry cross country ski boots offer two sole types, each compatible with specific binding systems. The more prevalent sole type connects to the binding via a metal bar, similar to classic boots, and suits NNN BC binding systems. Boots fitting the 75 mm toe system possess a nib at the toe, akin to telemark boots. Due to the broader and sturdier metal bar at their toe, backcountry boots are incompatible with standard cross country bindings.

If alpine ski touring captures your interest, explore the array of alpine touring boots in our Ski Boot Selection.