LS Baruntse boot liner and fit questions. I have 2 sizes, trying to decide which to keep.....

Hi all,

So I have a new pair of LS Baruntse boots....actually 2 pairs, a 44.5 and a 45 size. I can return the one that doesn't fit, so all good there. I have not worn these outside the house yet trying to dial in the fit. I have not heat molded the liners, as they are super comfy as is for now.

Also the 44.5 and the 45 boots use the exact same liner size, a "44.5-45" size, so I can wear the same liner on my foot as I try on different outer boot sizes.

My question is: Will the liner pack down a bit and feel any bigger after wearing the boots for a while? 

I am right in between the 44.5 and 45 size, the 44.5 feels slight snug but not too tight, I can wiggle my toes, but barely, slight better heel lock. The 45 feels slight big but not too big, a little heel lift, but feel more comfy.

Also, I am wearing the thickest Smartwool expedition socks, so I could go with a more midweight sock with less volume.

I have already swapped the stock insoles for my Lowa insoles that I love in my other boots. They are a little thicker than the stock LS insoles.

So, as I wear the liner longer in the boot, will the fit "stretch" any compared to "new in the box" fit?

They liner will pack out not "stretch".  But it's not a very thick liner compared to a ski boot so you'll get most of the packing out taken care of when you cook the liner.

The heel lift will only be an issue if you plan on doing a lot of front pointing but the tight fit will negatively affect their warmth.  

These boots are more aimed at cold and high altitude mountaineering.  Boots like the G2SM and Phantom 6000 are what one uses for technical climbing in those cases.

thanks coldfinger!

Yes , I don't need the liner to stretch, just pack down a bit, just wondering if the volume will feel bigger after use?

Also, I hear the heat molding initially makes the liner thicker before sizing on while warmed. Does the molding process pack down the liner thinner than "original size" if my foot dictates?

Plus, I am getting mixed advice on what to wear on my feet while heat molding-- the socks I plan to use? An extra toe cap to for more toe room?

Any molding advice appreciated!

Just go to a professional boot fitter instead of fucking up a very expensive pair of boots and possibly an even more expensive trip!

And yes on the toe cap (or a double), a boot fitter will know.  Any full service ski shop should be able to do that.

Thanks again!

We are in Oklahoma but have a ski shop. They do boot liner molding. I hope they will know how t do these.

Also, what do you use as "toe caps"?

coldfinger, PM sent.