Best_Snowboard_Boots

Every snowboarder knows the importance of a good pair of boots. They are essential for controlling your board as well as making you feel comfortable on the snow. You could say that, along with the bindings and the board itself, the boots are the most important part of snowboarding gear.

But how do you choose the right pair? In addition to size and fit, you should consider your skill level and riding style. Factors like flex and lacing system also play a big role here.

To help you pick the ideal pair, we’ve selected the best boots for snowboarding currently available and discussed their pros and cons in various snowboarding scenarios. On top of this, our buying guide will talk about everything there is to know about boots so you can easily figure out what you need.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Burton Swath Boa Snowboard Boots

Burton Swath Boa Snowboard Boots


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Summary

The Burton Swath Boa is a comfortable boot that gives you an excellent range of motion. Its upper and lower articulating zones flex independently, while the dual BOA closure allows you to fine-tune the tightness just the way you like it. In addition, the boot has an excellent heel hold and gives you a quick response whether you’re riding all-mountain of freestyle.

Construction and Design

The rugged DynoBite EST outsoles of these top-rated boots provide excellent traction and resist damage from impacts and sharp objects. As for the upper, it uses a combination of rubber, plastic, and textile to give you a comfortable and snug feel while keeping your foot protected.

Features and Performance

To make riding more comfortable, the Burton Swath boots come with many great features. For example, the Imprint 3 liner is thermoformable so you won’t have to break in the boots. Additionally, you’ll get focus cuffs for extra stability, ReBounce cushioning, and Sleeping Bag foil under the footbed to keep your feet warm.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Double BOA closure makes fit adjustments quick and easy
  • GripLite back ensures that the boots grip well on the binding
  • Articulating cuffs allow the upper and lower part to flex independently
  • 3D PowerUp tongues and thermoformable liner guarantee comfort
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Quick Response and Motion Precision
Riding Style: Freestyle
Flex: Medium
Upper: Rubber, Plastic, Textile
Liner: Textile, Rubber (Thermoformable)
Outsole: DynoBite EST Rubber
Lacing: Dual BOA
Skill: Intermediate

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Ride Deadbolt Boa Snowboard Boots

Ride Deadbolt Boa Snowboard Boots


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Summary

Thanks to their medium-stiff construction and top-level response, the Ride Deadbolt boots are the best all mountain snowboard boots for riding demanding terrain. In addition to the exceptional stability and support, these boots also conform well to your foot and feel awesome for all-day riding.

Construction and Design

Made from HDR Premium synthetics, the upper of the Ride Deadbolt boots are very resilient to abrasions, tears, and impacts. On top of this, the Michelin Fiberlite outsole is very strong and has a great grip while reducing the overall weight of the boot.

Features and Performance

The Ride Deadbolt snowboard boots feature a double BOA lacing system, so you can independently tighten the top and bottom parts of the lace. We also really like the Tongue Tied tech that prevents the heel from lifting even when the boot is not completely tight. Last but not least, the Intuition Mobile liner provides a snug fit and adapts to every foot shape.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Dual BOA Focus for adjusting upper and lower part independently
  • Heat-moldable liner fully conforms to your foot while wearing
  • Rugged Michelin outsole prevents movements inside the binding
  • Mesh liner inside wicks sweat away and prevents nasty odors
  • High quality lacing system
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Demanding Terrain
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freeride
Flex: Medium Stiff (8/10)
Upper: HDR Premium Synthetics
Liner: Intuition Mobile (Thermoformable)
Outsole: Michelin Fiberlite
Lacing: Dual Focus BOA
Skill: Intermediate/Advanced

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3

BEST VALUE

DC Phase Snowboard Boots

DC Phase Snowboard Boots


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Summary

If you’re just getting into snowboarding and want a boot that is comfy and budget-friendly, the DC Phase are the best snowboarding boots for you. Despite being the most affordable model in our snowboard boot reviews, these really have a lot to offer – excellent response, a comfortable footbed, and a thermo-regulating liner.

Construction and Design

To make sure you have a good grip and vibration dampening, the outsole of the DC Phase boots is made from a special Foundation Unilite rubber blend. The insole uses EVA foam to absorb shock and make the ride smoother, while the multi-layer sewn-in liner combines EVA foam and thermo-regulating fleece to provide both comfort and warmth.

Features and Performance

Owing to their medium flex (5 out of 10), the DC Phase boots can tackle pretty much every challenge on the mountain – from tricks in terrain parks to riding powder off-track. It’s this level of versatility that makes them very popular among beginners and intermediate-level riders who want a universal boot.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Foundation Unilite outsole provides impressive traction
  • Comfortable sewn-in liner with thermo-regulating fleece
  • Traditional lacing is easy to replace in case of an accident
  • Medium flex makes it great for any type of snowboarding
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Riding Comfort
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Upper: Hybrid (Synthetic Fabric and Leather)
Liner: EVA Foam + Thermo-Regulating Fleece
Outsole: Foundation Unilite
Lacing: Traditional
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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4

Burton Ruler Step On Snowboard Boots

Burton Ruler Step On Snowboard Boots


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Summary

The thing that makes the Burton Ruler Step-On snowboarding boots so interesting is their compatibility with Burton’s Step-On binding systems. They allow almost instant setup and fastening so you can hit the snow quicker. This great boot also features Total Comfort Construction which makes it comfortable out of the box (no break-in period).

Construction and Design

A combination of Imprint 2 boot liners and 3M Thinsulate makes these boots very warm and cozy on the foot. In addition, the EST midsoles are optimized to give you better board control without reducing comfort. As a bonus, the Ruler boots come with a low-profile inner cuff (Lock-Up Cuff) that results in a much better heel hold when riding.

Features and Performance

The Burton Ruler beginner snowboard boots come with a single BOA ratchet for adjusting the lace tightness. Furthermore, like other Burton boots, this model also features a Sleeping Bag reflective foil for additional warmth, as well as internal gussets that prevent snow from getting in the boot.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Fully compatible with Burton’s Step-On binding systems
  • Snowproof gussets prevent snow from getting in the boot
  • Sleeping Bag heat-reflective underfoot retains your body heat
  • Lock-Up low-profile inner cuff makes entry and exit easier
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Fast Setup (Step-On Compatible)
Riding Style: All-Mountain
Flex: Medium
Upper: Synthetic Leather, Polyurethane
Liner: Thermoformable Foam
Lacing: BOA
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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5

ThirtyTwo TM-3 Snowboard Boots

ThirtyTwo TM-3 Snowboard Boots


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Summary

For those of you who enjoy riding in the park and performing stunts and tricks, the ThirtyTwo TM-3 is the most efficient snowboard boot to get. In addition to freestyle, they are also great all-mountain boots that work really well on the piste.

Construction and Design

The upper on the ThirtyTwo TM-3 is made from a combination of fabric and synthetic leather and has a medium flex (4-6 out of 10). The boot’s design also includes a rugged rubber outsole, a shock-absorbing midsole, and an Intuition Elite liner that you can custom-mold to your foot.

Features and Performance

An interesting detail about the TM-3 snowboard boots is the articulated cuff that comes with a power strap to lock the fit. The boot is equipped with traditional laces and metal hooks so finding the right fit won’t be difficult. Last but not least, it also comes with special inserts that keep the heel in place and prevent lifting.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Traditional lacing for easily getting the foot in and out
  • Intuition Elite liner easily adapts to the shape of your foot
  • Power Strap on the cuff makes the boot very secure
  • STI Foam midsole and rubber outsole absorb impacts well
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Jumps and Tricks
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Medium (4-6/10)
Upper: Synthetic Leather and Fabric
Liner: Intuition Elite (Thermoformable)
Outsole: Performance Rubber
Lacing: Traditional
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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6

Burton Photon Boa Snowboard Boots

Burton Photon Boa Snowboard Boots


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Summary

With an aggressive design that guarantees precision when riding powder, the Burton Photon Boa freeride boots for snowboarding are an excellent choice for all freeriding enthusiasts. Even though they are designed to be used off-piste, they have a medium flex that will make using them a bit more gentle and forgiving compared to other powder boots.

Construction and Design

The outsole of the Burton Photon Boa boot is made from Vibram EcoStep rubber that dampens impacts and shocks very well. In addition, it features Ice Spikes on the footprint that significantly improve the traction during the winter season. The upper is made from abrasion-resistant synthetic fabric, while the foam Imprint 3 liner allows you to heat-mold it to your foot.

Features and Performance

For top-notch precision when adjusting the fit, the Burton Photon freeride boots come with a double BOA lacing system. However, it features New England rope laces instead of steel cables for a gentler flex. Overall, it’s a high-performance boot that will truly shine away from a groomed track.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Aggressive and reliable in deep snow and powder
  • Custom fit Imprint 3 liner guarantees comfort
  • Vibram EcoStep outsole with Ice Spikes for traction
  • Sleeping Bag reflective underfoot foil prevents body heat loss
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Powder and Deep Snow
Riding Style: Freeride
Flex: Medium Stiff Flex
Upper: Synthetic
Liner: Imprint 3 (Heat-Moldable)
Outsole: Vibram EcoStep Rubber
Lacing: Dual BOA
Skill: Intermediate/Advanced

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7

ThirtyTwo STW Boa Snowboard Boots

ThirtyTwo STW Boa Snowboard Boots


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Summary

Soft, stylish, and incredibly comfortable, the ThirtyTwo STW boots are among the best snowboarding boots for beginners. They are among the softest boots in our snowboard boot reviews (flex rating 3 out of 10) which means that you can use them for practicing without putting too much strain on your legs and feet.

Construction and Design

This beginner boot comes from one of the most reputable snowboard boot brands that pays a lot of attention to construction quality. The synthetic upper is strong and flexible, while the liner is made from dual-density foam that you can heat up and mold against your foot.

Features and Performance

A detail we particularly like about this snowboarding boot is its Comfort Ankle Harness which is a heel Velcro overlay that prevents heel lift while riding. Other great design solutions include a 3D molded tongue stiffeners, smooth BOA lacing system, and STI Evolution Foam that provides soft cushioning.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Soft flex makes the boot ideal for learning and practicing
  • BOA coiler makes fit adjustments incredibly easy
  • STI Evolution foam absorbs hits and makes the ride smoother
  • Velcro strap additionally secures the boot to the binding
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Learning
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
Upper: Synthetic
Liner: Dual-Density Intuition Foam (Heat-Moldable)
Lacing: BOA
Skill: Beginner

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8

ThirtyTwo Zephyr BOA Snowboard Boots

ThirtyTwo Zephyr BOA Snowboard Boots


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Summary

The ThirtyTwo Zephyr BOA is a moderately soft pair of boots that is exceptional to take to the park but work equally well on regular runs down groomed tracks. What ranks them as one of the best mens snowboarding boots is the fact that these are very lightweight snowboarding boots which greatly reduce the overall fatigue when riding.

Construction and Design

The smart design of these top snowboard boots makes them both comfortable and functional – the heat-moldable intuition liner provides an ideal fit for your foot, while the STI Evolution sole dampens the hits and shocks when you land hard. The material quality is top-notch and you can count on these boots to last for many seasons.

Features and Performance

Much like the previous ThirtyTwo model, the Zephyr BOA features a 3D molded tongue that makes flexing smoother and more comfortable. Last but not least, the boot comes with a special Heel Hold kit that prevents your foot from moving inside.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Responsive and forgiving both on and off the piste
  • Intuition foam liner molds to the shape of your foot
  • 3D Molded Tongue ensures that the flex is even
  • Customizable Heel Hold kit prevents heel lift
  • Good shock absorption
  • High quality lacing system
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-Around Snowboarding
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Medium (4/10)
Upper: Synthetic
Liner: Intuition Foam (Heat-Moldable)
Lacing: BOA System
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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9

System APX Snowboard Boots

System APX Snowboard Boots


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Summary

When it comes to overall strength and durability, the System APX snow board boots rank among the best mens snowboard boots around. They are made from very rugged materials and even come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty as proof of quality. At the same time, they don’t create any pressure points on your foot and provide excellent all-day wearing comfort.

Construction and Design

As we’ve pointed out, the material quality of these boots is excellent – the upper is made from a combination of synthetic leather and nylon to resist abrasion, while the strong rubber outsole tolerates impacts really well.

Features and Performance

The most interesting features of the System APX snowboard boots are the built-in flex panels that give the boot a very soft flex. In addition, they are equipped with an articulated cuff and reinforced traditional lacing so finding the perfect fit will be easy.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Built-in flex panels make the boot more comfortable
  • Rugged construction with a 3-year warranty coverage
  • No uncomfortable pressure points on the toes or heel
  • Soft interior lining keeps your foot warm and cozy
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Durability and Strength
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Soft
Upper: Synthetic Leather and Fabric
Liner: Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Lacing: Traditional
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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10

K2 Haven Boa Snowboard Boots

K2 Haven Boa Snowboard Boots


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Summary

The K2 Haven BOA all-mountain snowboard boots for men combine a very soft flex and a custom fit Intuition Comfort liner to give you one of the most comfortable boots in our snowboarding gear recommendations. Furthermore, the Haven boots feature an EVA footbed that completely absorbs the shock while riding on harsh terrain.

Construction and Design

The upper of the K2 Haven boot is made from synthetic materials that protect your foot while maintaining a generous amount of flex. The Intuition Comfort liner we’ve mentioned is heat-moldable, meaning you won’t have to worry about the fit.

Features and Performance

For quick and easy adjustments, K2 Haven boots come with a BOA lacing system and a single coiler placed on the front. To further improve the fit, the boots also feature a Fast-In liner lacing system that locks your foot inside and prevents the heel from lifting when leaning forward.

  • What Makes These Boots For Snowboarding Stand Out
  • Soft flex allows you to perform tricks and jump off ramps
  • Intuition comfort liner adapts to your foot for all-day comfort
  • Fast-In liner lacing system prevents the heel from lifting
  • Die-cut EVA footbed easily absorbs every shock and impact
  • Good shock absorption
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Shock Absorption
Riding Style: All-Mountain, Freestyle
Flex: Soft
Upper: Synthetic Leather
Liner: Intuition Comfort Foam (Heat-Moldable)
Outsole: Rubber
Lacing: BOA System
Skill: Beginner/Intermediate

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How To Choose The Best Snowboard Boots – Buying Guide

Size

Generally speaking, snowboard boots are sizes just like regular boots and it’s usually best to go with your standard size. This being said, most brands will provide size charts with dimensions. Since you won’t be able to try the boot when shopping online, we advise that you take your time, measure your foot, and compare with the size chart before ordering.

Related Post: Ski Boot Size Chart

Fit

Along with the size, the fit of your boots for snowboarding is the most important aspect to consider. A snowboard boot should fit more snug than a standard one, but not too tight to cause discomfort. The most important area to check is the heel – it should stay in place when you lean forward, otherwise you should go with a smaller size.

Style

The style of your boot is largely determined by where and how you ride your snowboard. If you enjoy riding in the park, you should look for a freestyle boot with soft flex. On the other hand, if you like riding powder and deep snow, you should go with a stiff freeride boot. If you enjoy a little bit of everything but mostly ride on groomed tracks, you should take a look at the best all mountain snowboard boots with a medium boot flex.

Related Reviews: Beginner Snowboard Boots & Freestyle Snowboard Boots

Lacing

How_To_Choose_Snowboard_Boots

There are three different lacing systems on your snowboarding shoes – traditional, quick pull, and BOA laces. As their name suggests, traditional laces are the same as on any other shoe and need to be tied. Quick pull laces come with a single tab that you pull to tighten, lock, and tuck away. The BOA system comes with one or several knobs that you turn to tighten or loosen the laces.

Footbed and Liner

The main tasks of liners and footbeds are to give you stability and make your foot comfortable. The footbeds are often made of a material that will give good support to the rider and absorb shock and vibrations. Liners, on the other hand, need to be fairly soft and have a snug fit around your foot. The snowboard boot should have a heat-moldable liner, as you’ll be able to heat it and customize it so it fits perfectly around your foot.

Material

The materials used in the construction determine both the performance and the durability of your boot. For example, uppers that are mostly made from nylon and polyester are used for the lightest boots. They are comfortable and have a softer flex, but can be damaged in harsh conditions. On the other hand, synthetic leather is a lot more long-lasting but might make your boot stiff.

Gender

When discussing gender, we aren’t talking about color differences. Men and women have different calf and foot shapes which should be taken into account when choosing. For example, women’s calf sits lower compared to men’s, which is why the cuff on the best women’s snowboard boots are lower. On the other hand, men have wider feet so the footbed in the best snowboard boots for men tends to be wider too.

Related Reviews: Ski Boots For Narrow Feet & Ski Boots For Wide Feet

FAQs

How_Tight_Should_I_Make_My_Snowboard_Boots

Q: How Tight Should I Make My Boots?

A: 

The boots should be pretty tight – it needs to prevent your foot from moving inside and your heel from lifting. However, it shouldn’t be too tight to cause discomfort or pressure points when going down the slopes.

Q: Are Speed Laces As Good As Traditional Laces?

A: 

Speed laces are more convenient for tightening the boot and adjusting the fit, but they are more difficult to replace. On the other hand, traditional laces will take more time to tighten but you can replace them on your own (if needed). Quality-wise, there isn’t a lot of difference between the two.

Q: How Can I Make My Boots More Comfortable?

A: 

First and foremost, you should get a boot with the right size and fit as this is essential for initial comfort. Furthermore, it’s a plus if the boot comes with a heat-moldable liner that will adapt to the shape of your foot. Finally, you’ll need to ‘break-in’ the boot by wearing in (a stiffer pair of boots take longer to break in).

Related Post: Ski Boot Stretching

Q: Are Stiff Snowboard Boots Better?

A: 

This depends on where you’ll be using the boots (and board). If you prefer going off-track and riding in powder and deep snow (freeriding), the stiffest snowboard boots will improve the board's response and precision. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner or you mostly go to the park to perform tricks, you should go with a softer boot.

Q: Do You Need Special Snowboard Boots?

A: 

Yes, you do. Compared to regular snow boots, snowboard boots are designed differently to give your feet additional protection. Furthermore, their shape and size allow them to connect perfectly to the bindings. This, in turn, improves board control.

Globo Surf Overview

To properly experience the slopes on your board, you’ll need to have the right equipment. As we’ve pointed out, the most efficient snowboard boot will keep your feet warm, dry, and protected, and improve the control over your board. Hopefully, our reviews and guide have pointed you in the right direction and made your choice easier.

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Globo Surf
My name is David Hamburg. I am an avid water sports fan who enjoys paddle boarding, surfing, scuba diving, and kite surfing. Anything with a board or chance I can get in the water I love! I am such a big fan I decided to start this website to review all my favorite products and some others. Hope you enjoy!