Snowboarding boots - get a pair that feel like slippers

If you are looking to upgrade your kit, snowboarding boots should without doubt be at the top of your list. I know that if you have limited funds you will probably want to spend your money on something more exciting like a new board but believe me, I would buy new boots before other kit every time. They are worth their weight in gold.

Why buy boots first?

There is nothing worse than being a couple of hours into a days riding and then getting hit by unbearable foot pain. There have been times on trips I have been on where I have had to stop at the side of the piste just to take the pressure off of my feet. My friends were off happily shredding and I was laying on my back in agony, all because I was wearing boots that didn't fit me properly.

Buying snowboard boots online

Don't do it unless you really have to! I know it is tempting to buy boots online to save a few pennies but unless you absoloutely have to because you have no other way of getting them, just don't do it.

snowboarding in the sun Doug Owen (Photo Andrew Nicholson)

An introduction to snowboarding boots - what to keep in mind

I know how easy it is to get swept away by all the new gear around you when you visit a shop. Before you know it you are buying something that you aren't quite sure about. This introduction to snowboarding boots will help keep you focused and give you something to think about when you next go to buy some boots.

How much do you want to spend?

Unless you are a lottery winner or lucky enough to have rich parents, money is going to influence your choice in snowboarding boots. Entry level boots start at around £100 ($160 usd) and top specification technical boots could set you back anything between £300 ($480 usd) and £400 ($650 usd). Pick a figure you are willing to pay and stick with it. Decent mid range boots that are made really well and will suit most riders will probably be in the ?150 to ?200 ($320 usd) ball park. An investment that is well worth it.

Experience and preferred riding style

The type of riding you do most will play a large part in what boots you go for. Park and freestyle addicts will probably prefer softer boots as they are more forgiving and can feel a bit more playful. They are also good for beginner riders as they won't punish you as much for every little mistake you make...reducing bum bruise which can only be a good thing.

snowboarding boots guide Follow this simple rule on flex and you will be well on your way to getting your perfect boots

Those who like to hoon it fast down the mountain will need stiffer boots as they are on the whole more stable. They are better suited to riders who are more experienced as they tend to be more responsive. The reason is they transfer the movements you make to your board alot faster so the moves you make have to be a lot more accurate. Some boots come with inserts that allow you to alter the flex of the boot depending on the conditions or as you progress. Something to bear in mind the next time you go shopping.

How do they do up?

As technology progresses, so do the amount of options that you have to fasten your snowboarding boots. Like anything, fads come and go. The two main stayers for keeping your boots tight on your feet are:

Traditional lacing
The BOA system

Each of these have their good and bad points. The only way you will know which one you prefer is if you have tried them on before or if you head to a shop near you. A word of advice...if you go for traditional laces, make sure they grip each other properly, I once spent my whole trip doing up my ex girlfriends boots after every lift and after every run...it got pretty annoying!

How heavy are they?

Some boots come fitted with extra insulation to keep you toes warm on those bitterly cold days on the mountain. Although this is a good thing, it can add quite a lot of weight to the boot. Something to keep in mind when you next buy some. Pick the boots up to compare their weight.

Do they fit like a glove?

Most boots now days come fitted with moulded inners to allow the boot to feel almost custom made after a while riding in it. This adds to your comfort massively so is well worth considering if you have a toss up between two otherwise equal pairs of boots.

We hope this information on snowboarding boots has helped you out a bit. If you have any questions about the types of boots available and want to know more then please drop us an email through the Contact us page.