ISO 23223:2021

Overview

ISO 23223:2021 - "Alpine ski boots with improved walking soles - Interface with alpine ski-bindings – Requirements and test methods" defines the interface requirements, test procedures and marking rules for alpine ski boots fitted with improved walking soles that mate with specific alpine ski‑binding systems. The standard ensures that walk‑optimized soles do not impair the proper release function of bindings whose performance depends on front and rear interface geometry. It applies to boots size 15.0 and larger in the Mondo point system (Types A - Adults, and C - Children). A corrected edition was published in 2022.

Key technical topics and requirements

• Scope and intent: Compatibility of walking‑sole boots with bindings that attach at both front and rear interfaces, preserving safe release behavior.
• Dimensions and tolerances: Detailed nominal dimensions for toe and heel interfaces (figures and tables in the standard) and rules for acceptable deviations. Boots in a pair must match-e.g., maximum sole length difference of 2 mm.
• Evenness and preload tests: Measurement procedures for sole flatness with specified preloads (Type A: 100 N, Type C: 50 N) and maximum permissible side‑to‑side differences (Type A: 0.7 mm, Type C: 0.6 mm).
• Design features: Requirements for sole length, symmetry (admissible deviation 1 mm), side walls, free spaces, bearing surfaces, low‑friction zones and mounting points. Special attention to areas that affect release and step‑in/step‑out clearance.
• Test methods and gauges: Annexes provide a test body for dimensional free‑space checks (Annex C) and a normative test gauge (Annex D) to verify conformity.
• Marking and manufacturer information: Requirements for product marking and the user manual content to communicate compatibility and safe use.
• Normative references: Cross‑references to related ISO test methods and conditioning standards (e.g., ISO 11088, ISO 554, plastics test standards).

Practical applications and users

• Ski‑boot manufacturers - design and quality control of walking‑sole boots to ensure binding compatibility and regulatory compliance.
• Binding manufacturers and system integrators - verify that binding designs correctly interface with walking soles without compromising release characteristics.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies - perform dimensional, evenness and functional tests using the prescribed gauges and test bodies.
• Rental shops and retailers - use guidance in inspection and sampling practices (notably in conjunction with ISO 13993).
• Product designers and R&D teams - incorporate standard dimensions and test methods early in development to avoid costly rework.

Related standards

• ISO 11088 (alpine S‑B‑B system assembly/adjustment)
• ISO 13993 (rental ski shop practice)
• Various ISO plastics and conditioning standards cited for material testing and test atmospheres.

Keywords: ISO 23223, alpine ski boots, improved walking soles, ski‑binding interface, test methods, requirements, Mondo point, Type A, Type C, bearing surfaces, low‑friction zone.