Tag: gear

Before Selling Your Used Telemark Boots, Read This

by TeleTay

Before selling your used telemark boots, read this

When selling used telemark boots on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Craigslist, there are a few key factors that often confuse sellers—especially regarding sizing. A clear, accurate listing is essential for connecting with buyers and avoiding frustration.

Your boots are NOT “Size ⅞ DX,” “Size 25.5-27.0,” or “Size 9.”
 Do not list them like this! These descriptions aren’t helpful or accurate.

Step 1: Identify the Size

Listing the correct size is the most important piece of information for your listing. Telemark boots are sized using the Mondo sizing system, which corresponds to the length of your foot in centimeters. For example, a size 27.0 boot is designed to fit a foot that’s 27 cm long.

Here’s how to determine your boots’ size:

Check the liner:
 The Mondo size is usually printed on the liner, either on the inside tongue or the outside heel. This marking can wear off over time, so if it’s missing, don’t worry—there are other ways to determine the size.

Examples:

    Example of 27.0 tongue style liner from Scarpa.
    Example of 26.5 wrap style liner from Scarpa.

    Understand the shell (Scafo):
     Telemark boots are made up of four main parts: the shell (Scafo), cuff, tongue, and liner. The shell size is what matters most, as it determines the fit and structure of the boot. Each shell size typically accommodates two liner sizes (e.g., 26.5 and 27.0).

    • Scarpa/Crispi: Shells break on the whole size (e.g., 26.5/27.0).
    • Scott/Garmont/Black Diamond: Shells break on the half size (e.g., 27.0/27.5).

    Check the shell for markings:
     Older Scarpa boots (prior to the 2024 TX Pro 2.0) used UK sizing to mark their shells (e.g., 27.0 Mondo = UK 8). Other brands like Garmont, Scott, Black Diamond, and Crispi typically use Mondo sizing.

    • Look on the shell for the size, which is often stamped on the inside or outside of the boot.
    • Some boots are also stamped with their Boot Sole Length (BSL) in millimeters. This measurement can also confirm the shell size.
      Example of single size UK 8 stamped on scafo of NTN telemark boot.
      Example of size 8 UK stamped on the sole of a Scarpa T1 Telemark Boot
      Boot sole length (BSL) shown in millimeters

      Parts stamped with ambiguous sizing:
       Cuffs and tongues are often used across multiple shell sizes and stamped with a broader range (e.g., 25.5-27.0 or ⅞). These markings do not provide definitive information about the boot’s size.

      Note: Scarpa boots are sometimes stamped with “DX” or “SX,” which refer to “Destra” (Right) and “Sinistra” (Left) in Italian.

      Example of a right tongue used on both 7 and 8 UK shell boots
      Example of a right tongue used on the TX Pro 2.0 2025 and TX Comp 2.0 2026
      Example of a left cuff on either size 7 or 8 UK sized telemark boots
      Scarpa size chart to help compare Mondo Sizing to UK Shell Sizing

      Step 2: Take Good Photos

      High-quality photos are crucial for a successful listing. Take pictures in a well-lit environment, and include:

      • A full shot of the pair of boots
      • Close-ups of the bellows and bellow guards/tongues
      • Toes of the boots
      • The liner and liner size
      • Buckles
      • Ski/walk mechanism
      • Any areas with notable wear or damage

      Step 3: Identify the Brand and Model

      Avoid vague listings like “Size 9 tele boots.” Buyers need more information. A good example of a clear, accurate listing is:
      “Scarpa T1, Size 27.0 – 75mm Telemark Boots.”

      This format is simple, informative, and easy to understand.

      Step 4: Describe Them Honestly

      Honesty goes a long way in building trust with potential buyers. Be clear about the boots’ condition:

      • Did you only ski them a few times and find they didn’t fit?
      • Have they seen 200+ days of use?
      • Is anything broken or not functioning properly?
      • Are there any quirks or wear-and-tear issues the buyer should know?

      Think about what you would want to know if you were purchasing the boots and include that information in your description.

      By following these steps, you’ll create a more accurate and appealing listing, helping you sell your used telemark boots faster and with fewer hassles. Happy selling!