An alpine ski boot is provided that consists of a rigid sole and a shell-less substantially flexible upper portion that is attached to the sole. The boot is secured to the wearer's foot by laces or buckles. The boot is further secured to the wearer's mid-foot area by semi-rigid securing ears closed by a lever actuated ribbed nylon strap. The sole is comprised of rigid plastic and the heel and toe portions of the sole may conform to the requirements of ISO 5355 for ski boots. The ski boot has a plastic cuff that surrounds the upper portion of the ski boot that follows the movement of the lower leg and provides lateral support to the ankle while introducing minimal or no restriction to the fore and aft flexion of the ankle.