Overview
ISO 5355:2019 - "Alpine ski‑boots - Requirements and test methods" defines the dimensional, design, testing and marking requirements for alpine ski‑boots intended to be used with current alpine ski‑binding systems that attach at the boot toe and heel. The standard applies to Mondopoint sizes 15.0 and larger for types A (adults) and C (children) and focuses on the interfaces and sole features that determine correct binding release function. The 2019 edition (fifth) updates test methods (including PTFE friction specifications), adds a clause on manufacturer information and refines sole‑length marking tolerances.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and applicability: Targets boots where binding release depends on sole shape; notes some binding systems are independent of sole geometry.
- Dimensions and tolerances: Detailed toe and heel interface dimensions with specific tolerances; maximum difference in sole length between paired boots: 2 mm.
- Sole geometry and symmetry: Toe/heel interface symmetry about the median plane within ±1 mm; side walls at toe must be perpendicular within ±1 mm.
- Heel side walls: Permitted taper 0°–10° up to 14 mm height; restrictions on projection and groove configurations with required lateral supports.
- Evenness (flatness) tests: Procedure uses a loaded steel cylinder (type A: 100 N, Ø 80 mm; type C: 50 N, Ø 50 mm) and gauges to verify bearing surface flatness and that specified gauge clearance limits are not exceeded.
- Free spaces and interfaces: Defined front and rear free spaces (radii for arcs: type A ~41.5 mm ±3.5 mm; type C ~35 mm ±3 mm) to ensure unobstructed binding function and release movement.
- Low‑friction zones, bearing surfaces and mounting points: Requirements for contact areas that interact with bindings and for consistent behaviour during step‑in, step‑out and release.
- Marking and manufacturer information: Mandatory marking and user information (user manual) requirements are specified to support safe use and compatibility.
Applications and users
- Ski‑boot designers and manufacturers use ISO 5355:2019 to design soles, shells and interfaces that reliably interact with alpine bindings.
- Binding manufacturers and test laboratories reference the standard when verifying compatibility and safety of boot‑binding systems.
- Retailers, rental shops and ski schools rely on conformity and marking to ensure safe pairing of boots and bindings.
- Regulatory and conformity bodies use the standard as a benchmark for safety testing and product assessment.
Related standards
- ISO 9462 - Alpine ski‑bindings - Requirements and test methods (binding requirements referenced)
- ISO 9407 - Mondopoint shoe sizing system
- Other referenced ISO material testing standards used for component tests (e.g., plastics tensile and hardness methods)
Keywords: ISO 5355:2019, alpine ski‑boots, ski‑boot dimensions, binding interfaces, Mondopoint sizing, test methods, boot sole, release function, marking.
