The selection of snowboard boots should consider your skill level, foot size, as well as your enthusiasm for riding on groomed runs, engaging in park activities, or enjoying powder. Additionally, your choice in lacing systems is significant.
Ideal Fit for Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots need to fit somewhat snugly; your toes should just touch the end of the boot, but you should still be able to move them up and down. To ensure the best fit, your heel should lift only slightly, if at all, when the boots are laced.
It's advisable that the inner boot is half a size smaller or the identical size to your regular shoe size, as the boots will expand and mould to the shape of your foot after some use.
Snowboard boots are available in EU sizing.
Flexibility of Snowboard Boots
- Soft boot flex offers more forgiveness and stability, making it perfect for park activities, as well as ideal for those who are beginners or of intermediate ability.
- A stiff boot flex is more commonly found in boots designed for off-piste and on-piste riding, as it provides better grip on edges and stability. Stiffer designs also enhance the responsiveness of your movements. Such boots are advised for snowboarders with more experience.
Types of Snowboard Boot Lacing Systems
At SkatePro, we have classified the three primary lacing systems as follows:
- Traditional laces are like those found in standard shoes. They require a bit more time to tighten, but their predictability and ease of replacement when worn out make them appealing.
- Speed lacing systems use either one or two laces, allowing you to secure the entire boot with a single pull, making it fast and straightforward to put on and ensuring a proper fit.
- The BOA lacing system uses small steel wires, tightened via an easy closure system that provides an even fit. Generally, you're likely to find either a Single BOA or Double BOA variant when seeking snowboard boots with an efficient and user-friendly lacing mechanism.
