BOOTBOARD The platform inside the boot shell on which the liner rests; usually removable; also referred to by its Italian name, zeppa.

DUROMETER A measure of the hardness of plastic. Boots using high durometer plastic are stiffer-flexing.

CANT The lateral angle of the boot in relation to the ski; often confused with cuff-alignment (the adjustment of cuff angle). Boots can be canted inward or outward, usually by grinding the sole at an angle, to give a skier better access to all four ski edges.

FOOTBED The removable platform inside the liner on which the foot rests. Custom footbeds are those molded by a bootfitter to conform to the shape of the skier's sole for better fit and more precise energy transfer.

LAST The interior shape of a boot. "Last" is a cobbler's term for the foot-like form around on which shoes were once crafted.

LINER The removable inner boot, usually made of foams, leather and textiles; provides padding for the foot to protect it from the rigid shell.

LIFTER Layer of plastic applied to the boot sole for extra height/leverage.

LUGS (TOE AND HEEL) The portions of the shell's sole that interface with a ski binding; must meet industry standards for size; often replaceable in the event of wear.

SHAFT ALIGNMENT The lateral orientation of the cuff in relation to the lower shell; usually adjustable on at least one side of the cuff, so that the cuff can be angled to match the angle of the skier's lower leg when standing.

SHELL The plastic exterior components of the boot, usually comprising two elements: the cuff (or upper) and lower.