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What Snowboard Boot to Buy

Buying and breaking in a snowboard boot is the worst part of any snowboard gear purchase.  Here are a few tips to make sure you get the right kind of snowboard boots. Even if you live in a resort town it can be hard to find the right boot.

HOW TO TRY THEM ON

You want them comfortable and snug.  The toes should touch when standing and should pull away from the end of the boot when leaning forward. The ankles should not lift much at all either. 
You can't try snowboard boots on like you do shoes.  Not only do you need to try them on but you need to have the right socks on and wear them around the shop until the person helping you want's to smack you.   If you feel they are comfortable and buy them don't just hit the hill with them the next day.  Put them on inside your house with a clean pair of socks and tool around in them or 2 or 3 hours.  This will help you figure out if there are any pressure points or issues that you can't overcome. Strap them into your bindings and lean in the directions you would when riding.   Usually if something hurts when you are in the house it won't feel better when you are riding on the hill. 

WHAT TYPE OF LACING SYSTEMS ARE THERE?

There are too many types but here is a breakdown of what you will find out there.

BOA BOOTS
What is the BOA System?- The BOA System is a dial attached to a steel chord that replaces traditional laces on the boot. There are 2 types of BOA.
1. BOA Coiler- 1 BOA system that tightens your whole boot.
2. BOA Focus- A 2 BOA system that tightens your boot in a upper and lower zone.

BOA boots are very easy to tighten and micro adjust.  If there is a problem with the BOA system the boot will most likely have to be repaired in a shop or sent back to the manufacturer.

SPEED LACE BOOTS

Speed Lace boots have thin laces that are attached to a handle.  They do not have to be tied but have a locking system that holds your laces in place.  Most speed lace boots have an upper and lower lacing system.  They are incredibly easy to tighten but are difficult to repair on the fly like traditional laces.  You can repair them yourselves if you have the right tools.

TRADITIONAL LACE BOOTS

Traditional Lace Snowboard Boots are the same laces you would see on shoes or hiking boots. They are easy to repair but hard to tighten just right.

WHAT TYPE OF FLEX WORKS FOR YOU?

This is a tough call because so many people like so many different flexs.   Generally if you are a beginner it is good to start with a cheaper boot but soft to mid flexing usually makes for a more forgiving ride.