Adjust top buckle for big calves

My fiancee borrowed boots and skis from her sister-in-law who will not ever use them again. I took her skiing for the first time last year and the top buckle is too tight for her bigger calf muscles. I don't want to buy her boot/skis yet since I'm not sure that she will really enjoy skiing yet.
I read that I could drill out the serrated strip that the buckle latches onto, then move it. How do I do this? Theoretically it sounds good, but I obviously don't want to drill entirely through. Then how do I fasten it back on?
My other option is to try the coat hanger trick that I also read about...Use a coat hanger and shape it like the buckle hook, only longer. This then loosens the boot.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Brian

Often the holes for moving cuff buckles are predrilled. If this is not the case, you could drill your own. Remove the screw that holds the toothed piece and then find a drill bit that fits nicely into the existing hole. Drill new holes. If it is riveted, you can drill out the rivet as you say and replace it with a self tapping screw.

Some ski boots have adjustable spoilers at the rear of the cuff. Look for this option and move the spoiler down. You could also cut some of the plastic of the cuff away at the rear.

You may do better by buying your fiancee a new pair of boots that she is comfortable in. This would demonstrate your commitment (to skiing) and if she is comfortable, she is more likely to take up the sport.

Trencher

Trencher wrote:Often the holes for moving cuff buckles are predrilled. If this is not the case, you could drill your own. Remove the screw that holds the toothed piece and then find a drill bit that fits nicely into the existing hole. Drill new holes. If it is riveted, you can drill out the rivet as you say and [i]replace it with a self tapping screw.{/i}

OOOPS That should be replace it with a pan head machine screw and nut.

Trencher

I am the one who "suggested the wire trick", just make sure it is of thicker gauge that moder hanger I see now days!

Also the above suggestions are very valid! Love your women? Then get her some great boots! You can not believe what a great smile will do!
You just sit down and calculate cost over 10 years + no complains + happiness = happy women!