On this episode, I sit down with Harald Harb—legendary coach, boot fitter, and founder of Harb Ski Academy—to unpack his complete approach to ski performance: precise measurements, footbeds that evolve with you, cuff alignment that actually lets you tip the ski, and on-snow validation so the shop work translates to turns.
If you’ve ever wondered where comfort ends and true performance begins, this episode shows how alignment, equipment, and coaching connect—so your boots help you ski the way you intend.
📌 Learn more about Harald → Harb Ski Academy
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Heather Van Gilder, a Boulder-based boot fitter and board-certified pedorthist (25+ years), to answer one of the most common listener requests: what’s different about women’s boot fitting—and what actually matters for comfort, performance, and injury reduction? Heather blends deep shop experience with clinical pedorthics to demystify women’s vs. unisex boots, liners, and the step-by-step process she uses to get skiers dialed.
The focus of this episode is practical, women-specific boot fitting you can use immediately—from choosing the right shell and liner to simple at-home tweaks that improve warmth, reduce calf pain, and keep toenails intact (yes, really).
We talk about:✅ Women’s vs. unisex boots: what’s real (narrower heel, scalloped/ lower cuff) vs. just labeling✅ Calf cramping & numb toes: common causes (instep pressure, buckle placement, limited dorsiflexion) and fixes✅ Warm feet 101: thin moisture-managing socks, not wearing ski socks in the car, and relieving lower-foot constriction✅ Touring toenails: how to keep toes off the front (mid-buckle snug, technique, support)✅ Q-angle & cuff alignment: internal adjustments before external canting—what really helps performance
If you’ve wondered whether you need a women-specific boot—or just a smarter fit—this conversation gives you a clear roadmap to ski stronger, warmer, and pain-free.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Heather → https://boulderorthotics.com/
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-freeFollow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down once again with Tom Gellie of Big Picture Skiing. Tom is a world-renowned ski coach and physical therapist who brings a unique blend of technical expertise and practical experience to skiing. We last connected back in Episode 25, and this time we pick up the conversation to go even deeper into boot fit, alignment, and their direct impact on ski performance and injury prevention.
The focus of this episode is on bridging the gap between biomechanics, alignment, and real-world skiing performance. Tom shares what he’s learned over the years about common mistakes skiers make, how small alignment tweaks can lead to huge breakthroughs, and the role of both structural and functional differences in how people ski.
We talk about: ✅ The evolution of Tom’s philosophies on ski performance ✅ How boot fit and alignment directly affect injury risk and skiing efficiency ✅ Mistakes skiers often make with boot fitting and how to avoid them ✅ The difference between structural vs. functional alignment in skiing ✅ Practical advice for skiers who want to improve technique and longevity
If you’ve been following the bootfit series, this episode with Tom ties together both the technical and human side of alignment—making it one of the most insightful conversations yet.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Tom → Big Picture Skiing: https://bigpictureskiing.com/
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
🎧 Listen now at the link in bio or www.legaskipodcast.com/episode113
On this episode, I sit down with Matt Lyall, owner of Seattle Ski Performance, where he combines expert boot fitting with the unique power of a ski simulator. Matt has worked with countless racers and recreational skiers, using technology to fine-tune alignment, improve performance, and reduce injury risk.
We talk about: ✅ How ski simulation changes the bootfitting process ✅ Why alignment directly impacts skiing performance and injury prevention ✅ Lessons from working with competitive racers and everyday skiers ✅ The role of real-time feedback in refining boot fit ✅ How Seattle Ski Performance is helping skiers prepare year-round
If you’re in the Seattle area, Matt’s approach offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to test your skiing, refine your setup, and build confidence before you hit the slopes.
📌 Learn more about Matt’s work → https://www.seattleskiperformance.com/
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Pat Medau, a boot fitter at Powderhouse Pro Snow in South Lake Tahoe and a ski instructor at Heavenly Mountain. Pat brings a unique dual perspective—fitting boots in the shop and coaching skiers on the hill—which gives him rare insight into how equipment and technique work together to shape performance.
We talk about: ✅ How boot fitting and ski instruction complement each other ✅ Lessons from fitting skiers of all levels in Tahoe ✅ Why alignment matters for both comfort and technical progression ✅ The most common boot mistakes he sees—and how to fix them ✅ What skiers should ask for when visiting a local bootfitter
If you’ve enjoyed this bootfitting series, Pat’s combined shop and on-snow expertise will help you see how the right fit translates directly into stronger skiing.
📌 Learn more about Pat’s work at Powderhouse Pro Snow (South Lake Tahoe, CA) → https://tahoepowderhouse.com/powder-house-boot-demo-center/
Contact Pat - Email: pmedau@aol.com Phone: 775 560-4746
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Jim Lindsay of Bootech Inc., based at the base of Aspen Highlands. With over 45 years in the bootfitting industry, Jim has dedicated his career to helping skiers perform better by transforming how their bodies interact with their equipment. His expertise highlights the deep craft and precision that go into world-class boot fitting.
The focus of this episode is on decades of experience and wisdom in ski boot alignment, showing how proper fitting improves both performance and longevity for skiers at every level.
We talk about: ✅ Jim’s 45-year journey as a specialty bootfitter ✅ How Bootech helps skiers ski stronger through better alignment ✅ Why long-term experience matters in solving complex boot issues ✅ The relationship between body mechanics and ski equipment ✅ What makes Aspen Highlands a hub for ski performance innovation
If you’ve enjoyed this bootfitting series, Jim’s decades of wisdom and real-world experience will give you a whole new perspective on why alignment and equipment setup matter.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Jim’s work → http://www.bootech.net/index.html
Call Boot Tech directly → 970-925-2526Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Keith from Arete BootFit, a Seattle-based bootfitter dedicated to helping skiers reduce pain, improve comfort, and maximize performance through proper alignment and fitting. With years of experience and a deep passion for helping skiers perform at their best, Keith shares both practical advice and inspiring client stories that highlight just how powerful the right boot fit can be.
The focus of this episode is on simple, actionable boot fitting strategies that every skier can use—whether you’re working with a local bootfitter or just starting to notice issues in your own setup. Keith emphasizes how small changes can lead to major breakthroughs in skiing confidence, performance, and longevity.
We talk about: ✅ Practical adjustments skiers can make to improve boot fit ✅ Why alignment is key to skiing pain-free and efficiently ✅ Success stories of skiers who overcame pain with proper boot fitting ✅ How to approach conversations with your local bootfitter ✅ The difference a professional fitting makes for long-term skiing performance ✅ Why boot fit is the foundation of confidence on snow
If you’ve ever battled discomfort or felt like your boots were holding you back, this episode will show you what’s possible when fit and alignment are done right.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Keith’s work → https://www.areteprofit.com/
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Brent Amesbury, certified pedorthist and owner of Park City Ski Boot. With both clinical training on the medical side and decades of boot‑fitting expertise, Brent brings a rare perspective that blends biomechanics, injury prevention, and performance. His insights push our ongoing boot‑fitting series even deeper—showing how proper alignment can protect joints, enhance comfort, and unlock new levels of skiing.
The focus of this episode is on the intersection of boot fitting and medical science, giving skiers a look at how clinical knowledge elevates the boot-fitting process far beyond what you’ll find in most shops.
We talk about: ✅ How Brent’s medical background shapes his approach to fitting boots ✅ Why biomechanics and pedorthics matter for long‑term ski performance ✅ The difference between a standard shop fit and true medical‑grade expertise ✅ Common boot and alignment issues skiers face—and how to fix them ✅ How proper boot alignment reduces injury risk and improves efficiency ✅ What skiers should consider when seeking out the right bootfitter
This episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role of your boots—not just as gear, but as critical tools for skiing stronger, safer, and longer.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
Visit PC Bootfit Website: https://www.parkcityskiboot.com/
Join the Legaski Club (it’s free) and access resources to transform your skiing → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I sit down with Colin Martin, the UK’s only board-certified pedorthist and founder of Solutions for Feet. With over 20 years of experience, Colin has become one of the leading voices in ski boot fitting, biomechanics, and alignment—helping skiers perform better, reduce pain, and extend their longevity on the slopes...
The focus of this episode is on ski boot fitting as both an art and a science, exploring how proper alignment and biomechanics can completely transform the skiing experience. Whether you’ve struggled with discomfort in your boots or are chasing high-performance precision, Colin’s expertise will change how you think about your setup.
We talk about: ✅ Why ski boot fitting is more than just heat molding and insoles ✅ How biomechanics and alignment affect skiing performance and injury prevention ✅ The most common boot issues skiers face—and Colin’s approach to solving them ✅ The difference between basic boot fitting and true professional customization ✅ What skiers should look for when choosing a bootfitter they can trust ✅ How small changes in setup can lead to big improvements on the mountain
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to ski stronger, reduce fatigue, and protect their joints for the long haul.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Colin’s work → @solutionsforfeet
Join The Legaski Club and get my free resources → https://legaskiclub.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/legaski-club-free
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode of the Legaski Podcast, I sit down with Brian, a master bootfitter out of Park City, to talk about ski boot alignment—and why it can completely change your skiing.
We dig into:
✅ Why most skiers end up in boots that are too big
✅ The difference between cuff adjustment and true canting ✅ How alignment affects balance, efficiency, and knee health
✅ Why your first turns should feel good if the boot is fit right ✅ The simple “at-home” test to check if your boots are the right size
✅ How alignment can be the missing link between frustration and breakthrough turns
If you’ve ever struggled with turning one way easier than the other—or felt like your knees take the brunt of every run—this episode is packed with clarity and practical takeaways.
If you’re in Park City and want to help with your boots, reach out to Brian
Website: https://theskishoe.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskishoe_biomoto/?hl=en
Phone: 435-647-5945
On this episode, I share some exciting (and wild) updates—Shred Strong is now an Amazon bestseller, but not without a plot twist. The same day it launched, someone tried to rip off the title and cover. I’ll walk you through what happened, how it got resolved, and why it matters.
Then, we dive into the main focus: how to make the shift from off-season to pre-season training so you can ski stronger and with less risk of injury this year. I break down practical, skier-specific strategies you can start now to build real performance—not just go through the motions.
We talk about: ✅ The book theft story and how Amazon handled it ✅ Why generic gym routines fall short for skiers ✅ How to structure your preseason training for maximum impact ✅ Key movement tweaks you can add into daily life to get ski-ready ✅ Why I recommend starting preseason about 12 weeks out ✅ How to train for both performance and injury prevention
If you want to hit the slopes feeling stronger, more prepared, and ready to enjoy the season without setbacks, this episode gives you the game plan.
📌 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Try the Legaski Club free for 14 days → https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
Follow me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/
Book a call with me → https://www.meettheskipt.com/
On this episode, I unpack what it really takes to prevent and manage cartilage injuries—and why most skiers miss the mark when it comes to long-term joint health.
Whether you're dealing with early cartilage wear, managing chronic joint pain, or trying to stay ahead of future issues, this episode gives you a performance-based approach—not just generic advice.
We talk about:✅ Why cartilage injuries happen (and how to reduce your risk)✅ The hidden gaps in most injury prevention plans✅ Smart load management strategies to avoid flare-ups.✅ The difference between joint-friendly training vs. joint-stressing workouts✅ Key movement patterns to protect and support cartilage✅ When to back off—and when to push forward—with confidence
If you want to ski stronger, longer, and with fewer setbacks, this solo episode gives you the tools, strategies, and mindset to stay ahead of cartilage issues.
🎧 Follow me and learn more:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacyrehabandperformance.skiingWebsite: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/skiing-homepageYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the_ski_pt
Get my book: http://www.shredstrongbook.com/Book a call with me: https://www.meettheskipt.com/
Try the Legaski Club free for 14 days: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
On this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nick Kennedy, an orthopedic surgeon and skier who specializes in cartilage damage and arthritis in active adults.
We break down what actually happens when your cartilage wears away, what “bone-on-bone” really means, and what options skiers have to keep turning—even after a rough knee diagnosis.
We talk about:
✅ What cartilage actually is (And why it matters for skiing)
✅ How arthritis develops—and what it doesn’t mean
✅ Key non-surgical strategies to stay active with joint damage
✅ Bracing, injections, and activity modifications for longevity
✅ When surgery becomes a smart option—and which one to choose
✅ Why mindset is just as critical as mechanics in long-term skiing
If you've been told you're "too old" or your knees are "too far gone," this episode is packed with hope, clarity, and tools to keep you moving.
Reach out to Dr. Kennedy and follow him on social media:
https://www.nickthekneemd.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nickthekneemd/
🎧 Follow me and learn more:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ski_pt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacyrehabandperformance.skiingWebsite: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/skiing-homepage
Get my book: http://www.shredstrongbook.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the_ski_ptBook a call with me: https://www.meettheskipt.com/
Try the Legaski Club free for 14 days: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
In this solo episode, I take you behind the scenes of my 33rd birthday—a day where I skied at Mt. Hood in the morning and surfed Seaside in the afternoon. But this episode isn’t just about an epic Pacific Northwest double.
It’s about what happens when you stop chasing “more” and start living with intention.
We talk about:✅ Why I used to feel like every adventure still wasn’t enough✅ The trap of achievement in outdoor culture✅ How comparison eats at contentment✅ Why I stopped measuring myself by the next goal✅ What true fulfillment feels like (hint: it’s not loud)✅ The biggest mindset shift I’ve made in my 30s
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still feel like something’s missing—this one’s for you.
In this solo episode, I (Greg, The Ski PT) reflect on my summer ski trip to Mount Hood, my upcoming birthday, and one powerful lesson from a 94-year-old client named Peter that changed the way I view ski training forever.
This story shaped the final chapter of my book Shred Strong, and it’s all about building your own Eternal Season—the mindset and habits that let you keep skiing for decades, not just seasons.
We talk about: ✅ Why Peter could still ski at 90 ✅ How to build daily habits that support lifelong skiing ✅ The #1 offseason habit skiers overlook ✅ A simple way to train your non-dominant side ✅ What to do a month before ski season hits ✅ How to know if your body is actually ready for the slopes
Whether you’re in your 30s or your 70s, if you love skiing and want to keep doing it for life, this episode is your reminder: It’s not about one season—it’s about the Eternal Season.
📘 Grab your copy of Shred Strong before August 1st for just $1 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FH8K57T2
In this milestone episode, I sit down with Demelza Clay—ski coach, sports scientist, and co-leader of The Ski Coach Collective alongside Tom Gellie of Big Picture Skiing.
Demelza has coached at ski camps all over the world, from Engelberg to BC cat-skiing lodges, and brings a unique perspective to athlete development—especially when it comes to female skiers.
We dive into her journey from sports science to ski coaching, how coaching women differs from coaching men, and how she helps skiers prepare in the off-season to thrive when snow starts falling again.
We cover:
✅ The unique biomechanical differences in skiing for men vs. women✅ Tips for off-season conditioning that actually transfer to snow
Whether you’re curious about ski coaching, planning a trip, or looking to grow as a skier—this one’s packed with insight and practical tips from a true expert in the field.
🎿 Learn more about Demelza and her work:Demelza’s Website: https://www.demelzaclay.com/
Follow Demelza: https://www.instagram.com/demelza.clay/Ski Coach Collective: https://skicoachcollective.com
👉 Free 14-day trial of the Legaski Club: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
In this episode, I sit down with Caroline Gleich—a professional ski mountaineer and climate activist—who shares her incredible story of summiting Mount Everest without having ACL surgery.
After tearing her ACL just months before her expedition, Caroline made the bold decision to rehab without surgery. We unpack what went into that decision, how she trained, and the mental fortitude it took to climb one of the world’s tallest peaks while managing an injury most assume requires surgery.
We cover a ton, including:
✅ Why she chose not to get ACL surgery—and how it changed her approach✅ How to build strength, balance, and confidence post-injury✅ The mindset shifts that helped her push through pain and self-doubt✅ What every skier should consider before choosing surgery✅ Why “listening to your body” isn’t just a cliché—it’s essential✅ How to advocate for your health and make decisions aligned with your values
Whether you’re navigating an ACL tear or just want to be inspired by what’s possible through grit and intention, this one is powerful.🔗 Resources mentioned: – Caroline’s Everest story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=YRtQ1rJk-eE
– Caroline’s website: https://www.carolinegleich.com – Caroline’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/carolinegleich
– Caroline’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarolineGleich
🎧 Listen now at www.legaskipodcast.com/episode99
📲 Ready to take your rehab or performance training seriously? Start your 14-day free trial of the Legaski Club: legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
In this episode, I sit down with Sam—a sports therapist and passionate skier based in Zurich—who tore his ACL and experienced a ski cut to his calf the following season.
As a fellow rehab professional, Sam offers a unique lens on injury recovery: balancing personal experience with clinical knowledge. We talk through the mental battles, the physical milestones, and how his approach as a therapist changed once he became the patient.
We cover a lot, including: ✅ What it’s like to rehab when you already know the protocol ✅ How to build a support system when you’re feeling isolated ✅ Lessons from treating athletes that he now applies to himself ✅ Tips for managing emotions and setting healthy expectations ✅ How to return to skiing with confidence—not just clearance
This one’s especially powerful for skiers in the thick of recovery, or anyone who’s ever felt the tension between what you should do… and what you feel ready for.
📲 Want help navigating your own rehab or return to snow?
Follow Sam’s journey on IG - https://www.instagram.com/samde__vries?igsh=MTlmcTY0ZmNmZnE5aA==
Start your 14-day free trial of the Legaski Club: legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Finch—a physical therapist, strength coach, and alpine ski coach based in Vermont who works with athletes chasing World Cup dreams.
Brian shares his journey from ski racing to PT to coaching elite skiers, and we dig into what separates high-level performers from the rest. From strength and conditioning to mental strategy and recovery, Brian brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of ski performance.
We cover:
- The biggest physical gaps that hold skiers back from progressing
- Why athletes should train more like sprinters than marathoners
- How to program strength for skiing vs. strength for aesthetics
- What World Cup athletes do differently when it comes to rehab
- When to push and when to back off during injury recovery
- How to approach testing, return-to-snow benchmarks, and more
Whether you’re a competitive skier, coach, or just serious about your training—this episode will give you a high-performance lens to view your own ski prep.
Want to train like the pros? Join the Legaski Club 14-day free trial: legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
I’ve been chasing the elusive hip drag turn for the past few seasons—and in this episode, I finally get some expert guidance.
Brian from Level Up Sports Academy (Level 3 Certified Ski Instructor) joins me to break down exactly what it takes to achieve higher edge angles. We dive deep into posture, strength training, ski setup, and why so many skiers miss the foundational elements that make buttery edge angles possible.
We also talk about mindset, terrain manipulation, and how most skiers are over-relying on boot fitting instead of improving how their bodies move. If you’ve ever wanted to get your hip to the snow—or just carve with more precision and control—this episode is packed with gems.
Here’s what we cover: ✅ Why posture might be your biggest limiter on snow ✅ The training methods that actually support hip drag technique ✅ How to safely build edge angle using terrain and turn shape ✅ Why ski stiffness, width, and radius all make a difference ✅ The truth about “perfect” outside ski pressure ✅ How Brian coaches balance and edge without brute force
Check out Brian’s content on Instagram: @levelupsports.academyWant to work with him? Visit: www.levelupsports.academy
And if you want to ski stronger next season, join the Legaski Club—my ski-specific training membership—for free for 14 days: legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup
Or book a strategy call to see how we can work together: www.MeetTheSkiPT.com
