There are many styles of snowboard boots on the market today. A proper boot fit is essential to the performance of your snowboard. According to the ABC-of-Snowboarding website, "good snowboard boots should give you maximum control over your snowboard, protect your feet and ankles from the pressures of high speed turns and keep your feet warm and breathing in all weather conditions at the same time." l When sizing youth snowboard boots, it is important for your child to wear socks designed for snowboarding.
Step 1
Insert your kid's dominant foot into the snowboard boot. Loosen the laces on both the inner boot and the outer boot. Ensure that his heel is firmly planted into the boot.
Step 2
Check the fit on his toe. For a proper fit, the toe should be close to the end or just grazing the end of the boot. His toes should not be jammed or squeezed.
Step 3
Tighten the boot laces. Lace the inner boot first; make it tight, but do not restrict blood flow to his foot. Tighten the laces on the outer boot for a snug and comfortable fit.
Step 4
Repeat the boot fitting for his other foot.
Step 5
Walk your kid around the store while he is wearing the boots. The snowboard boots should feel comfortable; there should not be any painful, pinched or stressed areas on his feet.
Step 6
Strap into the bindings of a snowboard. Ask your kid to adjust his weight from the front to the back of the board. The boots should remain locked in the bindings.
Step 7
Have him rock his weight from the heel edge to the toe edge. The entire boot, binding and board should move while his heel stays secure in the boot. If his heel is lifting, fit aids are necessary to reduce the volume of the boot.
Tips and Warnings
- Try on several different styles of snowboard boots to find the right fit.
- The Snowboarding Master website cautions that an improper boot fit may cause your feet to get cold and can be painful. (See References 2)
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