Before you contemplate spending big bucks on that cool snowboard you saw this winter, there's another piece of equipment you should consider buying first: snowboard boots. Similar to alpine skiing, boots are the most important piece of riding equipment you'll own and can make a big difference in the way that your board reacts on the snow and how quickly you'll advance in technique. A proper fitting pair of boots will also be more comfortable and take into consideration the unique characteristics of your feet. You might be surprised to learn that there are actually six different types of snowboard boots: hard, soft, freestyle, freeride, freecarve and racing. Which type you choose depends on your riding style and how you intend to use them.
What to Look for
The majority of snowboard boots sold are "soft" boots and are defined by the type of riding you do. If you enjoy zooming up the side of a half-pipe and pulling an "Alley Oop," then you'll want a "freestyle" boot that is flexible and allows you to crouch down to perform tricks and maneuvers. "Freeride" boots are by far the most popular type of boot sold and provide the rider with enough flexibility to play in the half-pipe but offers more support than freestyle boots. Support is critical when riding on groomed runs or in deep, powder snow. "Freecarve" and "racing" boots belong to the "hard shell" class of boots and look a lot like alpine skiing boots. The hard shells transmit more power directly from your legs to the board's surface, particularly the edges. Coupled with specialized bindings and boards, freecarve boots allow you carve wide arcs in the snow and get closer to the snow's surface with your body. Racing boots are similar to freecarve boots but are fitted with very little tolerance between the boot shells and your feet, so while they're the most responsive type of boots, they're also the least comfortable.
Before you purchase a pair of boots, consider what type of binding you want to use with them: "strap-on", "step-in" or "plate" bindings. Strap-on bindings are the most popular and can accommodate the widest variety of boots. Step-in bindings are usually sold as "boot-binding" packages and work similar to clipless bicycle pedals. Plate bindings are used exclusively with hard shell boots and are used in conjunction with carving boards.
Common Pitfalls
Before you commit to a specific type or model of snowboard boot, it's always a good idea to try before you buy. There are literally hundreds of different models of boots and each of them will fit your foot differently. The only way to know if your foot is compatible with a particular boot is to try it on and take it out for a spin. Never buy a boot that is roomy when you buy it. Like ski boots, snowboard boots have inside liners that "pack out" with use, so be sure that your boot fits snugly when you buy it. It should be comfortable but offer plenty of support with no heel lift.
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