What Kind of Footwear Should I Wear When I Snowboard?

Snowboard boots are the only footwear you should wear while snowboarding. The two main functions of the snowboard boot are performance and comfort. The boots protect the wearer's feet from the elements while being flexible enough for the snowboarder to comfortably carve down slopes or maneuver through a snowboard park.

  1. Boot Types

    • Snowboard boots are separated into two main categories: soft boots and hard boots. Soft boots are the most common and are worn by freeriders or freestylers, either carving down hills or hitting the half pipe and other snowboard park features. Hard boots are preferred by racers who rely on the sturdy structure of the boots to help them make sharp, precise turns on a tight downhill course.

    Boot Features

    • Both soft and hard snowboard boots have an outer boot and a inner layer called the liner. Hard boots will have a removable liner, but most soft boots have a liner that is not removable. Non-removable liners are made out of anti-microbial materials that wick away moisture from the feet. Laces are thicker and longer than those of a sneaker, but their function in regards to a snowboard boot is the same. Some newer models of boots feature a quick-lace system that tightens and loosens the boot in seconds with a twist of a knob on the boot's tongue.

    Buying Snowboard Boots

    • Wear a pair of thick winter socks when trying on snowboard boots and take the time to try on a variety of boots before buying a pair. A brand new snowboard boot will fit snugly even if it's the correct size. Notice instead the areas where the boot pinches too much or is too loose. For example, a boot that fits comfortably but is too loose in the heel will be very difficult to snowboard in.

    Snowboard Boot Care

    • Wipe dirt and water from the surface of boots at the end of each use and allow boots to fully dry between uses. Pull the liners out of hard boots and allow them to air-dry faster. Stuff newspaper into boots with non-removable liners, and the paper will help to absorb some of the excess moisture on the surface of the liner material. Treat leather and suede boots with a weatherproofing spray twice each year. Store boots between seasons in a dry, sealed equipment box or bag.