The durable outer shell of a snowboarding boots protects your foot from the sharpened edges of the board. Snowboarding boots also provide ankle and heel support during hairpin turns and high-impact landings. Although the majority of snowboarding boots may appear similar to the untrained eye, high-end boots are equipped with technical features for advanced performance.
Inner Lining
Snowboarding boots have a padded inner lining for comfort and support. The interior of the snowboarding boots is usually lined with molded pieces of high-density foam. Snowboard boots for beginners often feature may have an adjustable inner lining that allows you to customize the fit. Freestyle snowboarding boots feature a reinforced insole to prevent painful heel bruising. The insoles housed in high-end freestyle boots are equipped with gel inserts. The inner lining of the snowboarding boots should fit snugly against your feet and ankles.
Outer Shell
The outer shell of the snowboarding boot is often designed of tightly woven fabric. Snowboarding boots are equipped with a breathable outer shell that helps to prevent perspiration from accumulating around your feet. The waterproof outer shell of the snowboarding boot protects your feet from slushy flow and flying ice crystals. The outer shells of the women's and men's snowboarding boots vary slightly. According to the Shred-O-Pedia buying guide for snowboard boots, women's boots feature a lower cuff to accommodate the shape of the female leg.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the snowboard boots varies to accommodate the needs of beginner and expert riders. Entry-level snowboarding boots for beginners often feature the most flexible designs. The pliable shell helps to prevent ankle injuries during minor falls and slide-outs. Snowboarding boots made for advanced and expert riders feature a more rigid construction for increased board response. According to REI, freestyle terrain park riders prefer a more flexible boot while backcountry snowboarders opt for a stiffer model.
Lacing Systems
Beginner snowboarding boots are equipped with a traditional lacing system similar to that of a recreational hiking boot. Intermediate snowboarding boots often have a fabric fastener strap around the top of the cuff to prevent your laces from coming untied during high-speed turns and maneuvers. According to "Transworld Snowboarding" magazine, high-end boots are equipped with a specialized lacing system known as the boa. The boa system has metallic strings for laces as well as a rotating adjustment knob.
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