Your choice of snowboard boots will vary depending on your skill level, foot size, and whether you enjoy riding on piste, in the park, or off-piste. Additionally, your preferred lacing system should be considered.
Fitting Your Snowboard Boots
When fitting snowboard boots, they should be rather snug, with your toes just barely touching the front while still allowing some upward and downward movement. For the best fit, your heel should lift very little when laced up, ideally not at all.
The inner boot is advised to be either half a size smaller or the same size as your usual shoe size since the boot will mould to your foot after some wear.
Snowboard boots are sized using EU measurements.
Flex of Snowboard Boots
- A boot with soft flex provides more forgiveness and stability, making it ideal for park riding, as well as for beginners and intermediate snowboarders.
- Snowboard boots with a hard flex are more common for off-piste and piste riding, as they offer better edge grip and stability. A stiffer boot construction also improves the response time of your movements. These firmer snowboard boots are suggested for snowboarders with a bit more experience.
Different Lacing Systems for Snowboard Boots
At SkatePro, we've classified the lacing systems in this way:
- Traditional laces, similar to those in everyday shoes. Although they take longer to tie, they are dependable and easily replaceable when worn.
- Speed lacing system can consist of either one or two laces. This system allows you to tie the entire boot with just a single pull, making putting on your boots quick and ensuring a good fit.
- The BOA lacing system features small steel cables that are tightened with a simple closure system for an even fit. You will typically come across Single BOA or Double BOA versions when searching for snowboard boots with a practical and efficient lacing method.