112. How Ski Boot Alignment Impacts Performance and Knee Health Part 7 (feat. Matt Lyall from Seattle Ski Performance)

On this episode, I sit down once again with Tom Gellie of Big Picture Skiing. Tom is a world-renowned ski coach and physical therapist who brings a unique blend of technical expertise and practical experience to skiing. We last connected back in Episode 25, and this time we pick up the conversation to go even deeper into boot fit, alignment, and their direct impact on ski performance and injury prevention.The focus of this episode is on bridging the gap between biomechanics, alignment, and real-world skiing performance. Tom shares what he’s learned over the years about common mistakes skiers make, how small alignment tweaks can lead to huge breakthroughs, and the role of both structural and functional differences in how people ski.We talk about: ✅ The evolution of Tom’s philosophies on ski performance ✅ How boot fit and alignment directly affect injury risk and skiing efficiency ✅ Mistakes skiers often make with boot fitting and how to avoid them ✅ The difference between structural vs. functional alignment in skiing ✅ Practical advice for skiers who want to improve technique and longevityIf you’ve been following the bootfit series, this episode with Tom ties together both the technical and human side of alignment—making it one of the most insightful conversations yet.📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Tom → Big Picture Skiing: https://bigpictureskiing.com/ Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/ 🎧 Listen now at the link in bio or www.legaskipodcast.com/episode113

On this episode, I sit down with Matt Lyall, owner of Seattle Ski Performance, where he combines expert boot fitting with the unique power of a ski simulator. Matt has worked with countless racers and recreational skiers, using technology to fine-tune alignment, improve performance, and reduce injury risk.We talk about: ✅ How ski simulation changes the bootfitting process ✅ Why alignment directly impacts skiing performance and injury prevention ✅ Lessons from working with competitive racers and everyday skiers ✅ The role of real-time feedback in refining boot fit ✅ How Seattle Ski Performance is helping skiers prepare year-roundIf you’re in the Seattle area, Matt’s approach offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to test your skiing, refine your setup, and build confidence before you hit the slopes.📌 Learn more about Matt’s work → https://www.seattleskiperformance.com/ Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/ 

On this episode, I sit down with Pat Medau, a boot fitter at Powderhouse Pro Snow in South Lake Tahoe and a ski instructor at Heavenly Mountain. Pat brings a unique dual perspective—fitting boots in the shop and coaching skiers on the hill—which gives him rare insight into how equipment and technique work together to shape performance.We talk about: ✅ How boot fitting and ski instruction complement each other ✅ Lessons from fitting skiers of all levels in Tahoe ✅ Why alignment matters for both comfort and technical progression ✅ The most common boot mistakes he sees—and how to fix them ✅ What skiers should ask for when visiting a local bootfitterIf you’ve enjoyed this bootfitting series, Pat’s combined shop and on-snow expertise will help you see how the right fit translates directly into stronger skiing.📌 Learn more about Pat’s work at Powderhouse Pro Snow (South Lake Tahoe, CA) →  https://tahoepowderhouse.com/powder-house-boot-demo-center/ Contact Pat - Email: [email protected] Phone: 775 560-4746Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/

On this episode, I sit down with Jim Lindsay of Bootech Inc., based at the base of Aspen Highlands. With over 45 years in the bootfitting industry, Jim has dedicated his career to helping skiers perform better by transforming how their bodies interact with their equipment. His expertise highlights the deep craft and precision that go into world-class boot fitting.The focus of this episode is on decades of experience and wisdom in ski boot alignment, showing how proper fitting improves both performance and longevity for skiers at every level.We talk about: ✅ Jim’s 45-year journey as a specialty bootfitter ✅ How Bootech helps skiers ski stronger through better alignment ✅ Why long-term experience matters in solving complex boot issues ✅ The relationship between body mechanics and ski equipment ✅ What makes Aspen Highlands a hub for ski performance innovationIf you’ve enjoyed this bootfitting series, Jim’s decades of wisdom and real-world experience will give you a whole new perspective on why alignment and equipment setup matter.📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Jim’s work → http://www.bootech.net/index.html Call Boot Tech directly → 970-925-2526Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/

On this episode, I sit down with Keith from Arete BootFit, a Seattle-based bootfitter dedicated to helping skiers reduce pain, improve comfort, and maximize performance through proper alignment and fitting. With years of experience and a deep passion for helping skiers perform at their best, Keith shares both practical advice and inspiring client stories that highlight just how powerful the right boot fit can be.The focus of this episode is on simple, actionable boot fitting strategies that every skier can use—whether you’re working with a local bootfitter or just starting to notice issues in your own setup. Keith emphasizes how small changes can lead to major breakthroughs in skiing confidence, performance, and longevity.We talk about: ✅ Practical adjustments skiers can make to improve boot fit ✅ Why alignment is key to skiing pain-free and efficiently ✅ Success stories of skiers who overcame pain with proper boot fitting ✅ How to approach conversations with your local bootfitter ✅ The difference a professional fitting makes for long-term skiing performance ✅ Why boot fit is the foundation of confidence on snowIf you’ve ever battled discomfort or felt like your boots were holding you back, this episode will show you what’s possible when fit and alignment are done right.📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Keith’s work → https://www.areteprofit.com/ Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/

On this episode, I sit down with Brent Amesbury, certified pedorthist and owner of Park City Ski Boot. With both clinical training on the medical side and decades of boot‑fitting expertise, Brent brings a rare perspective that blends biomechanics, injury prevention, and performance. His insights push our ongoing boot‑fitting series even deeper—showing how proper alignment can protect joints, enhance comfort, and unlock new levels of skiing.The focus of this episode is on the intersection of boot fitting and medical science, giving skiers a look at how clinical knowledge elevates the boot-fitting process far beyond what you’ll find in most shops.We talk about: ✅ How Brent’s medical background shapes his approach to fitting boots ✅ Why biomechanics and pedorthics matter for long‑term ski performance ✅ The difference between a standard shop fit and true medical‑grade expertise ✅ Common boot and alignment issues skiers face—and how to fix them ✅ How proper boot alignment reduces injury risk and improves efficiency ✅ What skiers should consider when seeking out the right bootfitterThis episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role of your boots—not just as gear, but as critical tools for skiing stronger, safer, and longer.Links & Resources Mentioned:Visit PC Bootfit Website: https://www.parkcityskiboot.com/ Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/ 

On this episode, I sit down with Colin Martin, the UK’s only board-certified pedorthist and founder of Solutions for Feet. With over 20 years of experience, Colin has become one of the leading voices in ski boot fitting, biomechanics, and alignment—helping skiers perform better, reduce pain, and extend their longevity on the slopes...The focus of this episode is on ski boot fitting as both an art and a science, exploring how proper alignment and biomechanics can completely transform the skiing experience. Whether you’ve struggled with discomfort in your boots or are chasing high-performance precision, Colin’s expertise will change how you think about your setup.We talk about: ✅ Why ski boot fitting is more than just heat molding and insoles ✅ How biomechanics and alignment affect skiing performance and injury prevention ✅ The most common boot issues skiers face—and Colin’s approach to solving them ✅ The difference between basic boot fitting and true professional customization ✅ What skiers should look for when choosing a bootfitter they can trust ✅ How small changes in setup can lead to big improvements on the mountainThis episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to ski stronger, reduce fatigue, and protect their joints for the long haul.📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Colin’s work → @solutionsforfeetJoin The  Legaski Club and get my free resources → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/ 

On this episode of the Legaski Podcast, I sit down with Brian, a master bootfitter out of Park City, to talk about ski boot alignment—and why it can completely change your skiing.We dig into: ✅ Why most skiers end up in boots that are too big ✅ The difference between cuff adjustment and true canting ✅ How alignment affects balance, efficiency, and knee health ✅ Why your first turns should feel good if the boot is fit right ✅ The simple “at-home” test to check if your boots are the right size ✅ How alignment can be the missing link between frustration and breakthrough turnsIf you’ve ever struggled with turning one way easier than the other—or felt like your knees take the brunt of every run—this episode is packed with clarity and practical takeaways.If you’re in Park City and want to help with your boots, reach out to BrianWebsite: https://theskishoe.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskishoe_biomoto/?hl=enPhone: 435-647-5945 

On this episode, I share some exciting (and wild) updates—Shred Strong is now an Amazon bestseller, but not without a plot twist. The same day it launched, someone tried to rip off the title and cover. I’ll walk you through what happened, how it got resolved, and why it matters.Then, we dive into the main focus: how to make the shift from off-season to pre-season training so you can ski stronger and with less risk of injury this year. I break down practical, skier-specific strategies you can start now to build real performance—not just go through the motions.We talk about: ✅ The book theft story and how Amazon handled it ✅ Why generic gym routines fall short for skiers ✅ How to structure your preseason training for maximum impact ✅ Key movement tweaks you can add into daily life to get ski-ready ✅ Why I recommend starting preseason about 12 weeks out ✅ How to train for both performance and injury preventionIf you want to hit the slopes feeling stronger, more prepared, and ready to enjoy the season without setbacks, this episode gives you the game plan.📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:Try the Legaski Club free for 14 days → https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/ 

On this episode, I unpack what it really takes to prevent and manage cartilage injuries—and why most skiers miss the mark when it comes to long-term joint health.Whether you're dealing with early cartilage wear, managing chronic joint pain, or trying to stay ahead of future issues, this episode gives you a performance-based approach—not just generic advice.We talk about:✅ Why cartilage injuries happen (and how to reduce your risk)✅ The hidden gaps in most injury prevention plans✅ Smart load management strategies to avoid flare-ups.✅ The difference between joint-friendly training vs. joint-stressing workouts✅ Key movement patterns to protect and support cartilage✅ When to back off—and when to push forward—with confidenceIf you want to ski stronger, longer, and with fewer setbacks, this solo episode gives you the tools, strategies, and mindset to stay ahead of cartilage issues.🎧 Follow me and learn more:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacyrehabandperformance.skiingWebsite: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/skiing-homepageYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the_ski_ptGet my book: http://www.shredstrongbook.com/Book a call with me: https://www.meettheskipt.com/Try the Legaski Club free for 14 days: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup