Snowboard Boots

How We Choose Snowboard Boots

Just like every foot, every boot is different. It’s best to try boots on before you buy, but knowing what flex rating pairs with your style of riding will give you a good foundation of options.

• Flex index refers to the stiffness of the boot. Beginners often look for softer boot ratings (1–4), while more experienced riders can benefit from stiffer boots (6–10). Style of riding will also determine what boot stiffness is best for you. Many park riders like softer boots and many freeriders like stiffer boots.
• Closure systems most common on snowboard boots are lace-up and BOA. Lace-ups are less expensive but take more time to dial in. BOA systems take no time at all to achieve the perfect fit but they are a little pricier. Some boots feature a combo of these two systems or a hybrid lacing system (such as speed lace) featuring a cordlock for cinching down a boots’ liner. Many kids’ boots feature hook and loop closures for ease of use.