Getting the flex rating right can make or break your mountain experience.
When you’re shopping for used Salomon boots or other pre-owned mountain gear, understanding flex becomes even more important since you can’t always try before you buy.
What Flex Rating Actually Means?
Flex rating tells you how stiff or soft your mountain gear will be during use. The numbers typically range from 60 to 130, with lower numbers meaning softer flex and higher numbers indicating stiffer performance.
Soft flex (60-80) works best for beginners and lighter riders who want forgiveness and easy control.
Medium flex (90-110) suits intermediate users who need balanced performance.
Stiff flex (120-130) targets advanced users who demand precise response and aggressive riding.
Why Flex Rating Matters More in Used Gear?
Used mountain equipment presents unique challenges when determining proper flex rating.
The original flex can change over time due to wear, temperature exposure, and material breakdown.
Pre-owned gear often shows flex degradation of 10-15% from its original rating.
This means a boot originally rated at 100 might perform closer to 85-90 after several seasons of use.
You need to account for this change when selecting used equipment. What seems like the right flex rating on paper might feel too soft in reality.
How to Test Flex Rating on Pre-Owned Equipment?
The Squeeze Test Method
Press firmly on the sides and back of used boots to check for flex consistency. Good equipment should return to its original shape quickly without creaking or staying compressed.
Uneven flex patterns indicate internal damage or excessive wear that could affect performance. Look for soft spots or areas that feel mushier than others.
Temperature Considerations
Cold weather makes all mountain gear stiffer, while warm conditions soften the flex. Test used equipment at room temperature to get an accurate baseline reading.
Gear that’s been stored in hot attics or cold garages might not represent its true flex characteristics until it reaches normal operating temperatures.
| Flex Rating Range | Best For | Typical Weight Range | Skill Level |
| 60-80 | Beginners, Lightweight Riders | Under 140 lbs | Beginner to Early Intermediate |
| 90-110 | All-Mountain Performance | 140-180 lbs | Intermediate to Advanced |
| 120-130 | Aggressive Riding | Over 180 lbs | Advanced to Expert |
Matching Your Weight and Ability Level
Your body weight directly impacts how flex rating feels during use. Heavier riders need stiffer flex ratings to get proper support and response.
A 120-pound rider in 110-flex boots will feel overpowered, while a 200-pound rider in 80-flex gear won’t get adequate support for aggressive skiing.
Skill level matters just as much as weight. Advanced skiers can handle stiffer flex because they know how to use the extra response. Beginners benefit from softer flex that forgives mistakes and provides easier control.
Signs of Flex Degradation in Used Gear
Visual inspection reveals important clues about flex condition. Look for stress cracks, worn pivot points, and compressed foam areas that indicate the flex has changed from original specifications.
Smell can indicate material breakdown. Used boots with strong chemical odors or musty smells might have internal degradation affecting flex performance.
Check the tongue and ankle areas carefully since these zones handle the most flex stress during use. Excessive wear in these areas suggests the flex rating has likely decreased.
Regional Climate Impact on Flex Choice
Mountain conditions in your area should influence flex rating selection. Colder climates naturally stiffen gear, so you might choose a slightly softer flex rating than usual.
Warmer spring conditions soften equipment, making stiffer flex ratings more manageable for intermediate riders who want to progress their skills.
Making the Final Decision
Try multiple flex ratings if possible before committing to used gear purchases. Many specialty shops let you test different options to find your sweet spot.
Consider your progression goals when selecting flex rating. Buying slightly stiffer used gear can accommodate skill improvement, but don’t go more than one flex category above your current ability.
Factor in the gear’s age and condition when making your choice. Well-maintained equipment from reputable sources typically retains more of its original flex characteristics.
When buying pre-owned mountain gear, understanding how to determine proper flex rating ensures you get equipment that enhances rather than hinders your mountain adventures.
Take time to assess each piece individually since used gear can vary significantly even within the same model and flex rating.
