Abstract: The ski boot of the invention comprises a shank and a rigid shell base. The shank is at least partially journalled on the shell base, and flexion means for adjusting the flexional characteristics of the shank relative to the shell base are also provided. The flexion means is generally positioned at the lower portion of the shank and comprises:(a) first support means associated with the shank;(b) second support means associated with the shell base, the first and second support means forming at least one groove therebetween; and(c) transmission means for transmitting flexional forces exerted by the leg of a skier on the shank from the first support means to the second support means.

Abstract: A latching apparatus for use with a ski binding. The apparatus has a latching element adapted to pivot multidirectionally upon the application of an external force. Elastic elements are provided to bias the latching element and to allow for its multidirectional pivoting. The inventive apparatus makes it possible to achieve increased vertical-to-lateral release thresholds having a ratio of greater than 2:1.