How to Get the Right Fit With Snowboard Boots

If your boots are uncomfortable, you're not going to have fun on the mountain. Take your time and choose well.

Things You'll Need

  • Ski And Snowboard Stone
  • Helmets
  • Snowboard Bag
  • Snowboard Bindings
  • Snowboard Boots
  • Snowboard Clothing
  • Snowboard Goggles
  • Snowboard Hats
  • Snowboard Leash
  • Snowboards
  • Waxes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring the socks you'll be wearing on the slopes to the shop with you.

    • 2

      Make sure you know the binding system of your snowboard. There are two basic systems, the step-in system and the binding system. (See Tips, below.) Some boots are compatible with both; others aren't.

    • 3

      Go to a snowboard specialty shop if you can. You'll find better stock and knowledgeable salespeople.

    • 4

      Find a sales rep that snowboards, and ask about his or her preferences.

    • 5

      Understand that the key elements of snowboard boots are comfort, mobility and support. Obviously, with more mobility comes less support, and so on.

    • 6

      Try on both boots and lace them up completely.

    • 7

      Jump around the store in them. Run and bound a few steps. Do the boots pull up on the heel at all? If they do, try one size smaller. Do the boots pinch your toes? Try a larger size. The boots should feel stiff and offer a lot of support. You don't want to turn an ankle.

    • 8

      Compare the different lacing systems. Some boots have laces, some have straps, some have buckles. This is a matter of preference. Laces are the most common, but buckles and straps sometimes provide more support.

    • 9

      Notice that some boots have an extra lacing feature - usually a set of adjustable buckles or straps - that pulls your shin forward over your toe. This is a forward lean system, and is highly recommended for any serious snowboarder. The forward lean system helps pull your toes up on heel turns, allowing you to have more response from a more comfortable boot.