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Buying snowboard boots sounds like a complicated undertaking? Not with INTERSPORT Rent! At our more than 800 shops worldwide, you can test latest-generation models and get one-to-one advice from real snowboard experts. For you, this means: Comfortable boots that allow you to safely handle every move – plus, the right snowboard and bindings, a helmet and clothing. Everything you need for a perfect winter day on the board!
But what types of snowboard boots are there, how do they differ, and what do you need to consider when trying them on? We’ve answered these questions together with our snowboard-crazy RENTertainers.
Boots are just as much of a key part of your setup as the board and bindings. The perfect fit is crucial for how comfortable you feel when shredding – and how well you ride. Pressure points or too loose of a fit can quickly ruin your day on the slopes. An ill-fitting boot causes pain, negatively impacts your riding behaviour, and takes all the fun out of snowboarding.
Keep in mind: Your boots must be compatible with your snowboard bindings. Our RENTertainers will see at first glance whether that’s the case.
Besides the right size, the distinction between soft and hard boots is crucial when choosing the perfect snowboard boots.
Soft boots are very flexible and that makes them the more comfortable choice. Even though they are soft in contrast to hard boots – there are different degrees of hardness for soft boots. The term “flex” indicates how flexible a boot is. Flex levels range from 1 (soft) to 10 (hard).
Your skills and riding style determine how hard or soft your boots should be.
Here’s a rough classification:
Hard boots for snowboarders are similar in construction to ski boots. They have a hard shell and buckles, which makes the shaft inflexible. That means they provide extra support and stability along with maximum control and optimal power transfer, as direct pressure can be exerted on the edges.
It is precisely these properties that make hard boots a must-have for die-hard racers and carvers. You’re probably wondering now if hard boots are uncomfortable. Not if they fit well! If something still pinches, soft gel pads or specially adapted, thermoformable liners can help.
Basically, you choose the size of your snowboard boots according to your normal shoe size. You should always wear snowboard socks when trying them on. To find the right fit, we recommend the following: If your legs are stretched out, your toes may slightly graze the front of the boots. If you bend your knees a little, you should feel your toes pull back ever so slightly resulting in an optimal fit. Make sure that your heels do not have too much room to slide upwards in this position! Otherwise, you could end up with painful friction and foot cramps while riding.