If you're looking to buy a new pair of snowboard boots, there are some important things to know. Snowboard boots are made by many different companies and each has their own take on what makes a good boot. The biggest factor in choosing the best boots for you is finding one that fits well and is comfortable for your feet.
Sizing/Fit
To get the right fit, you'll want to know your size. Most snowboard boots come in whole sizes and half sizes. To find out what size you need, measure the length of your foot (in inches) and add 1/2" - 1". For example: if you have a 9 1/2" foot measurement, add 1/2" - 1" = 10-1/2". This will give you a rough idea of how big or small a boot will fit based on its stated size.
For most riders who purchase snowboard boots online, sizing becomes even more difficult because they may not know their exact foot measurements or whether they should go up or down from their standard dress shoe size. If this sounds like it might apply to you then here are some tips:
- Be sure that the boot fits snugly but comfortably around both ankles without being too tight (you should still be able to wiggle your toes).
- Make sure that there's room for growth--it's better for kids' boots not to fit perfectly now than for them not have enough room later on!
Flex
Flex is the amount of bend in your snowboard boot. It's measured in degrees, and the higher the flex number, the more flexible your boot will be.
Flex determines how much energy is required to flex your snowboard boots and also how much energy is returned when they're released. For example: if you have high-flexing boots, it'll take less effort on your part to flex them and they'll return back into shape quicker than low-flexing ones.
Compatibility
When choosing a snowboard boot, you'll want to make sure that it's compatible with the type of riding you do. This is because different boots are designed for different activities. So if you're an all-mountain rider who enjoys freestyle tricks but also likes to carve down groomers occasionally, then look for a boot that offers these features!
Lacing Systems
Lacing systems are the mechanisms that help you tighten and loosen your boots. There are several types of lacing systems, and each have their pros and cons.
- Speed Lace: This is a standard lace system that allows you to quickly tighten or loosen your boots with ease. It's typically found in cheaper models of snowboard boots and can be used by anyone regardless of their experience level with lacing up footwear.
- Double Boa: A more advanced option than speed lace, this type of boot uses two separate cables (one for each side) to control how tightly they're tied down around your foot.
