This page is under construction. Only the parts that are referred to from other pages are included at this time.
Boot forward angle (forward lean)
The boot's forward angle, traditionally called the forward lean, is formed by the cuff angle and the ramp angle:
The best test for a sufficient forward angle is this:
The test assumes that you have adjusted your buckles and possible power strap in such a way that you have a snug fit. Also, your feet must be parallel.
You should be able to have the front side of your upper legs horizontal without losing your balance. If you cannot get it to horizontal and your ankle flexibility is OK, your boot has a too small forward angle.
You can make it bigger by means of the adjustment mechanism that some boots have, or by means of a (thicker) spoiler. You could also do it with a heel lift (= heel insole), to make the functional ramp angle bigger. However, that can cause a pressure point at the top of the foot.
Boots can also have a too big forward angle. To test that, do the Knee to Wall Test with your boots on, with a snug fit. At 4 inches/10 cm, your heel should come off the ground. If not (if your knee touches the wall with the heel still on the ground), the boot's forward angle is too big.
That's generally due to it not having a (proper) power strap (which was introduced in 1983). Those straps can be bought separately, but should be mounted only if the boot once had a power strap. If not, you'll need new boots.
A too big forward angle makes your shin pressure at best come too late, so it's really a matter of the boot having the right forward angle.
