New Boots, New Gear - Any advice from the pros?

Evening all.

I've been skiing and boarding a few times, but this winter is my first
trip abroad with my own kit. I got a board (burton motion, recently
serviced), boots and bindings (step ins) from a pal and it's fine for
me at this stage but with one small problem. The boots appear to be
too small - I can't do anything after about 30 minutes of wearing them
due to the discomfort.

I've tried all the adjustments I can, but in many trips to the dry
slopes I've only managed to "get it" once. If I ease them off they're
more comfortable but I lose a degree of control. The acceptable
comfort level is way past the acceptable control level, so I'm going to
have to get some new ones, but is there any advice on things to look
for?

If anyone has any recommendations for outlets in north west England (or
a little further afield) I'd be much obliged. If they do jackets and
trousers as well then all the better.

--
Christofire

Take it to a shoe repair guy and get it stretched. Maybe only 1/2 a
size, but that can be enough.
Otherwise, new boots for you.
"too small"....do you mean in length, width, height, or something
else?
You can add/subtract insoles, add a tall arch support to make you
feetlength shorter, use thinner socks to give you more size all around,
or get used to sloppier fit.
Boot fit is the most important factor in the EQ equation.

Have you tried a thin sock? Lot of folks seem to think they need real
heavy socks. If the boot is a bit too tight, I'd go with a thin sock.
And when you try on your next boots, I'd plan on wearing thin socks
too. If they fit OK with thin socks, as they pack in, you can go to
thicker ones, which you can't do if you start out with heavy ones.
Personally, I prefer riding with thinner socks anyway.

wrote:
Have you tried a thin sock? Lot of folks seem to think they need real
heavy socks. If the boot is a bit too tight, I'd go with a thin sock.
And when you try on your next boots, I'd plan on wearing thin socks
too. If they fit OK with thin socks, as they pack in, you can go to
thicker ones, which you can't do if you start out with heavy ones.
Personally, I prefer riding with thinner socks anyway.

A good thin polypropelene sock is warmer and more comfortable than thick
cotton, so if you're using gym socks ditch them for proper ski socks.
The reason is the polypro wicks moisture away from your foot into the liner.

Neil