Snowboard Boot Size Chart: How to choose snowboard boots for the whole family.

Snowboard Boots: You're Q's Answered

What's the average life of snowboard boots?

Typically, you should expect your new snowboard boots to last one to two seasons or 50-100 days on the slopes. If you only get out a few times a season, those boots could last even longer.

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What snowboard boot size should I wear?

Most riders choose boots half a size or a full size smaller than their street shoes. Your heels should fit tight while at the same time your toes should just feel the front of the boot when putting weight on your heel. When you try on a boot make sure you’re wearing winter socks, it’s tightly laced, and you flex your legs.

Is it better to size up or down in snowboard boots?

The fit should be snug but not uncomfortable. Keep in mind that boot liners compress ("pack out") with use and will end up roomier at the end of the season than when you bought them, so if you're deciding between two sizes, it's best to size them down. If your shoe size is 10.5, you’ll probably want a size 9.5 snowboard boot. Figure out what’s best for you, and remember, the first time you try on your boots is the tightest they will ever be. 

How Do I Break In My Snowboard Boots?

If you have self-molding liners, which many boots do, this can be done at home by lacing up your boots and walking around the house. Try standing as if you were on your snowboard, with bent knees, and shift your weight from your heels to your toes as if rolling over a tennis ball.

How should they feel? 

A good rule of thumb: if it feels comfortable in the shop, it will feel comfortable on the mountain. Try the boots on. The inner liner should feel snug & supportive. It should hold your heel in place. Your toes should just brush the front end of the boot. Don’t squish them! Rock back and forth, with your knees bent, as though you’re on a snowboard. You should feel no pain, no pressure points, and your heel should be locked in.

Liner: the inner liner provides comfort & fit and is constructed to hold your heel in place.

Footbed: this foam insole provides cushion & arch support. You can replace the factory insole with a custom one, but try it out first. You may find it to be just right.

Outer Shell: gives support and keeps your feet dry. Make sure they’re waterproof. Look for quality & durability. 

Sole: keep in mind that a thinner boot sole allows you to feel more of the flex of the board.

Tread: is really only important if you need to hike, or when crossing an icy parking lot.

Outer Lacing systems: traditional laces come with a velcro power strap at the top for extra tightness. We like this option because the solution to a broken lace is simple… just keep an extra lace in your pocket.

The Boa Fit System and Quick-Pull are both excellent, providing an exact fit with ease, but they can be troublesome if something goes wrong with them on the mountain.

Flex: check the boot for flex by bending the toe back toward the lacings. Mid-flex is comfortable, gives some resistance, and is good for all riding. Softer flex is good for terrain park riding or for beginners. Stiffer flex is meant for carving and big mountain riding. More expensive boots tend to be stiffer and made for specific riding.

How much overhang is good?

½” - ¾ “ overhang for both toe and heel is ideal. You need overhang to apply leverage to your board edges, but too much overhang can cause toe or heel drag.

Snowboard boots are an important purchase. Understand that brands differ slightly in sizing. Listen to the expert advice you get in the shop, but ultimately, follow your own instincts.

Size Chart