During winter, a lot of young people look forward to snowboarding. As such, many of them wonder if they really need snowboard boots.
During my college years in North Dakota, my friends and I developed a keen interest in snowboarding as it was the fastest-growing sport back in the day. I mainly liked it because it lowered my stress levels and helped me lose weight, which is why snowboarding will always remain near and dear to me.
A couple of days ago, on my elder son’s birthday, I presented him with a snowboard when he asked me about snowboard boots. To be frank, I didn’t think that snowboard boots would be necessary since I had never worn them myself during my college days.
To be sure, I called up my college friend, a snowboarding instructor, when he told me that snowboard boots are an essential element of a snowboard set-up. He further went on to explain why one needs to wear snowboard boots when snowboarding.
Hi! My name is Stacy Smith, and today I will be telling you everything that my friend shared with me on this topic. So, without further chit-chat, let’s begin!
Why Do You Need Snowboard Boots To Snowboard
While snowboarding, snowboard boots help connect your feet to the board through the material. You can rent them at ski resorts; however, I wouldn’t suggest doing so since they are engineered to conform to a particular foot size.
For this reason, it’s best to buy snowboard boots, as you will be much more comfortable in them. Your boots should be able to snugly fit your leg without being too tight.
Snowboard boots that fit properly can vastly enhance your performance when snowboarding. That’s why you should invest in a quality pair of snowboard boots.
What Are The Different Types Of Snowboard Boots
Here is a list of the different types of snowboard boots available on the market.
1. Freeride Boots
These boots are made using stiffer flex than the other snowboard boots. They offer more control and response on challenging terrain by aiding in edge hold and turn initiation.
2. Freestyle Snowboard Boots
Freestyle snowboards are designed with the main intention of delivering easy mobility and a wide range of motion. You will have the flexibility to press rails, boxes, and tweak grabs.
3. All-Mountain Boots
They offer mid-level support and the required control to ride in different types of snow terrains.
When choosing a pair of snowboard boots, you must also consider the flex rating, which is nothing but a rating based on the flexibility of the boot under pressure. Stiff boots are more supportive, while softer boots offer more maneuverability.
Factors To Consider When Buying Snowboard Boots
You must not obsess over a particular brand when buying snowboard boots; instead, you should consider the factors that I have mentioned below to make an informed purchase.
1. Liners
The liners of snowboard boots feature a moldable and lightweight material that ensures a custom fit. Apart from that, it offers insulation, stability and cushioning, so that you can experience comfort on the mountain. I would highly suggest you go with a pair that features removable liners as they can be taken out to dry overnight.
2. Lacing System
In general, there are three types of lacing systems:
- BOA Lacings - micro-adjustable fit with a dial and cable, can be done with one hand, and easy to use with gloves
- Quick-Pull Lacings - faster, sports zonal lacing to tighten the ankle and forefoot independently
- Traditional Lacing - provides the best-personalized fit as they can be tightened in the right areas by hand
3. Flex
Usually, snowboard boot flexes are rated between 1 and 10 with 10 being the stiffest and 1 being the softest. So, go with a flex that would be suitable for you. That said, if you are a beginner, I would recommend you to go with a softer flex.
4. Sizing
Like normal boots, snowboard boots come in the conventional EU, US, and UK shoe sizing, and the sizing may vary depending on the brand. However, choosing your normal boot size would be a good starting point.
5. Fit
As I have already mentioned earlier, snowboard boots should snugly fit around your foot. If it’s too tight, don’t worry, it will soften after you use it for a couple of days.
When standing, you should be able to feel the front of the boot with your toes, but ensure that they don’t hit it. There should be some space to move your toes.
What Are The Most Popular Snowboard Boot Brands
Here is the list of some of the most popular snowboard boot brands.
1. DC
Honestly, I love the look of DC snowboard boots. DC is one of the most popular snowboard boot brands; it makes high-performance models that are strong yet comfortable to wear.
It has an impressive array of styles and designs that provide fresh looks for every new season.
- BOA Fit System with H4 Coiler
- Foundation UniLite Outsole
- Response Liner I
- BOA Fit System with H4 Coiler
- Foundation UniLite Outsole
- Response Liner I
2. Burton
Burton is famous for its premium-quality products, and the boots are a true testament to what the brand offers. It makes boots for kids, women, and men, which makes them ideal if you are looking for snowboard boots for the entire family.
- GripLITE backstay snugs up the fit between the boot and hi-back; 1:1 firm flex PowerUp tongue for a snug fit between boot and tongue; Focus cuff boosts heel hold and rides slightly higher
- Total Comfort Construction provides an instantly broken-in feel right out of the box; Snow-proof internal gusset completely seals the lower zone of the boot; Shrinkage footbed reduction reduces toe drag
- Dual-Zone BOA Fit System with Coiler and Lockdown technology features two distinct lace zones that can be independently adjusted with the twist of a dial for a custom fit; B3 Gel Cushioning provides maximum damping in cold temperatures and withstands impact
- Durable polyurethane backstay; 1:1 soft flex PowerUp tongue creates a snug fit between boot and tongue; Man fur provides a warm and comfortable boot entrance
- Total Comfort Construction provides an instantly broken-in feel right out of the box; Snow-proof internal gusset completely seals the lower zone of the boot
- Single-Zone BOA Fit System uses an inner spool to route the laces for a snug fit and easy lace adjustment
3. Thirtytwo
It is another popular snowboard boot brand known for its durability and longevity. Like the other two brands, it too features a huge selection of boots for women and men.
Most snowboard boots from this brand look a bit old-school, so if you are into a retro look, then you’ll love using it.
- 𝐃𝐔𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐎𝐀 𝐅𝐈𝐓 – Quick, zonal control over forefoot and ankle.
- 𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐗𝐈𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 – Ideal for freestyle and playful riders.
- 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 – Adaptive flex for tweaks and comfort.
- 𝐃𝐔𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐎𝐀 𝐅𝐈𝐓 – Quick, zonal control over forefoot and ankle.
- 𝐅𝐋𝐄𝐗𝐈𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 – Ideal for freestyle and playful riders.
- 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 – Adaptive flex for tweaks and comfort.
Final Thoughts
I have covered the topic – do you need snowboard boots; hopefully, it has cleared all your confusion on the topic.
If you are a snowboarding enthusiast, I highly recommend getting a pair of quality snowboard boots to enjoy the overall experience of the sport. On that note, I think I’ll water my plants while you get yourself busy choosing a brand worth investing in.