Snowboard boots are arguably the most critical component of a snowboard setup, as they provide the connection between you and your snowboard. Choosing new snowboard boots is an important decision that can greatly impact your snowboard experience. While the overall fit and feel of a boot comes down to a rider’s personal preference, there are several components of a boot that are important to consider:
- FIT: A proper fit is the most important factor to consider when buying snowboard boots. Your boots should fit snugly around your foot without any pressure points or discomfort. The correct size snowboard boot should have your toes touch lightly on the ends without being uncomfortable. Room between your toes and the end of the boot generally means the boot is too large. Try on several pairs and spend time in them to ensure a good fit.
- FLEX: The flexibility of your boots will depend on your riding style and ability level. Stiffer boots provide more support and control, while softer boots offer more flexibility and manoeuvrability and are likely more comfortable.
- LACING SYSTEM: Snowboard boots come with different lacing systems, such as traditional laces, speed laces, and BOA lacing systems. Choose a lacing system that is easy for you to use and provides the level of support and comfort you need.
- LINER: The liner is the inner part of the boot that provides insulation and comfort. Some liners are heat-mouldable, which means they can be customized to fit your foot. We provide a free heat-moulding service for all new boots.
CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS:
Snowboard boots can differ in their level of stiffness, flex, and support, which is determined by the materials used in their construction. For example, a boot with a stiffer outer shell and a supportive insole will provide more support and control, while a softer boot with a more flexible outer shell and a cushioned insole will offer more comfort and manoeuvrability. The specific materials used in a boot will also affect its weight, durability, performance, and price.
- OUTER SHELL: The outer shell of snowboard boots is typically made from a synthetic material such as nylon or polyester. Some high-end boots may also use materials like carbon fibre or Kevlar for added stiffness and support.
- LINER: The liner is the inner part of the boot that provides insulation and comfort. Most liners are made from a soft foam, some of which can be heat-moulded to your foot for a better fit. Some liners also include materials which help keep the heat in.
- INSOLE: The insole is the part of the boot that provides cushioning and support for your foot. Insoles can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, gel, and cork.
- OUTSOLE: The outsole is the bottom of the boot that meets the snowboard binding. It is typically made from rubber, foam, or a similar durable material to provide traction and grip on the snow. Less expensive boots feature foam outsoles as they are cheap, comfortable, and lightweight however they wear quickly. Premium boots use rubber materials such as Vibram to provide durability and extra grip on snow or ice.
Vans 2023 Encore Pro Ladies Snowboard Boots
Description
With timeless style, comfort, and dependable control in equal measure, the Encore Pro is an advanced and versatile women’s-specific BOA boot built to perform in all environments. It features our dual-zone Custom Focus BOA®Fit System for unlimited, on-the-fly micro-adjustability, backed by the customizable comfort and heel hold of the Custom Slide Guide. Add in the V2 UltraCush Smartwool liner and V2 POPCUSH footbed, and the Encore Pro just might be your new favorite part about snowboarding.
Specifications
• Skill: Intermediate-Advanced
• Terrain: All-Mountain/Backcountry
• V2 Ultracush With Smartwool Liner
• V2 Popcush Footbed
• V2 Waffle Pro Outsole With All-Trac Cold Weather Rubber Compound
• Boa Custom Focus With Custom Slide Guide
• V2 Harness
• Instep Flex Zone
• Pleasurecuff
• Heat Retention 360
