Boot Fitting Guide '24
HOW TO:
Pick The Right Snowboard Boot
When it comes to seasonal riding, the right snowboard boot can make all the difference in your comfort and performance on the mountain. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to determine your size, explore various boot types, and ensure your snowboard boots fit perfectly, whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time rider.
RIDING STYLES
Similar to boards, snowboard boots are designed for specific riding styles. Stiffer boots tend to work better for advanced riders looking for precision, responsiveness and maximum control while beginners and some freestyle riders may lean toward a softer boot with more flex to increase maneuverability and comfort. However, in the end, it all boils down to personal preference and what works best for your riding style.
ALL MOUNTAIN
All mountain boots are designed for riders who may find themselves in a wide range of conditions. These styles will often have enhanced tech and comfort options for the rider who needs dependability and versatility throughout the season.
FREESTYLE
Boots designed for freestyle are often more flexible than other styles and should offer plenty of cushion for hard landings. More advanced park riders may lean towards stiffer boots to handle bigger tricks.
FREERIDE
Freeride specific boots are likely to be designed for comfort while boot-packing or splitboarding, and will usually come with premium features, such as gaiters or Vibram® soles to ensure dependability where it matters most.
LACING SYSTEMS
How a boot operates is also a huge factor to think about when it comes to dialing in what boot you want to ride. Lacing systems nowadays come in all different forms.
TRADITIONAL (LACE)
Before all this fancy technology, snowboard boots came with traditional laces, similar to a regular shoe. Traditional, laced boots provide complete customization to the tightness of a boot and also provides a nice, uniform flex feel.
BOA®
Boots that utilize a BOA® lacing system provide a lot of convenience and dependability. Thin metal straps wrap around the boot to keep you locked in. While this keeps your foot nice and secure, boots that utilize BOA® may not be as comfortable to flex as traditional laces. What's lost in comfort is made up for in ease of access and convenience.
SPEEDLACE
Some boots come with a very easy-to-use speedlacing system that involves pulling up on two pieces of string to synch the boots' laces completely around your foot. Again, some customization in tightness may be lost here, but it's convenience is hard to beat.
HYBRID
Many boots now-a-days come with a combination of the technologies described above. You may find a boot that utilizes a traditional lace system that also has BOA® in some parts to really keep you secure and locked in.
*Here are some tips we recommend trying before purchasing a snowboard boot
MEASURE YOUR FOOT
Start by measuring your foot's length in centimeters. Print out our custom Brannock below to measure at home, or, measure with a ruler, or use a Brannock device at a local shoe store.
ASK OUR EXPERTS
Our knowledgeable staff is always here to help you make the right choice. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance or recommendations via our shop phone, or online via our chat box at the bottom of this page.
CONSULT SIZE CHARTS
Different brands have slightly different sizing, so consult the brand-specific size chart. Neon Wave provides size charts for each product to help you find the right fit.
CONSIDER YOUR RIDING STYLE
Remember that the best boot can vary based on the type of riding you plan to do, or the materials used in the boot. Some boots may pack out and expand as you ride in them more than others.
TRY THEM ON
Whenever possible, visit our store or a demo location to try on the boots. Wear the same type of socks you'll use on the mountain. Walk around and flex your ankles to ensure comfort and flexibility.
TEST FOR HEEL LIFT
While trying on boots, check for heel lift. Lift your heel slightly and make sure it doesn't rise more than a quarter of an inch. Heel lift can indicate an improper fit.
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FAQ
HOW TIGHT IS TOO TIGHT?
A common mistake is assuming that tighter boots provide better control. Overly tight boots can lead to discomfort, poor circulation, and poor performance. Here's a rule of thumb for a fully grown adult: Your snowboard boots should feel snug but not painfully tight. You should be able to feel your big toe barely brush the front of the boot when you wiggle your toes. Ensure that your feet don't slide around inside the boots.
BOOT FITTING FOR KIDS
SIZE UP
Choose boots that are slightly larger to accommodate growth, especially when the child is between sizes. A thumb's width of extra space is a good guideline.
FLEXIBLE AND SUPPORTIVE
Kids' boots should be flexible for comfort and offer adequate support for learning. A boot that does not fit properly can poorly impact time spent on the mountain, and amplify frustrations associated with learning.
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
If possible, bring your child to one of our stores to try on different boots. Ensure they feel comfortable and secure in their chosen pair. With our free shipping/return options, we welcome you to try on the boots at home and return within 14 days, but we encourage you to do your best to find the right size online at time of ordering in order to reduce our environmental impact of shipping and returning.