When shopping for snowboard gear, there seems to always be a dizzying array of options to choose from. Our buyer’s guide to women’s snowboard boots will walk you through some of the best snowboard boots for this season, explaining what they do well and what type of snowboarder they will be best suited for. Before we dive into our round-up of women’s boots, let’s go over some need-to-know info about snowboard boots.
How to pick the right snowboard boots
Fit
First and foremost: Fit. No factor is more important when choosing a pair of snowboarding boots than getting the right boot size and fit. You want something that is snug but not uncomfortable; an uncomfortable pair of boots will make for a painful day of snowboarding. However, if the boot is too loose you will lose control of your board—having space for your heel to rise will ruin your toeside turns. We always recommend going to your local shop and trying on snowboard boots before you buy. It’s also important to remember that snowboard boots will usually take a couple of days of riding, if not more, to break them in.
Flex
Next, is boot flex. Snowboard boots are built on a flex scale generally rated from 1 to 10. Soft boots are more forgiving, playful, and comfortable. For those reasons, newer snowboarders will usually want a soft flex to help them get acclimated to riding. Freestyle and terrain park snowboarders will also want a softer boot, as the forgiveness makes landing tricks much smoother. More experienced all-mountain and backcountry riders will want a stiffer boot, as they offer greater support and response at higher speeds.
Lacing systems
The three main types of lacing systems for snowboarding boots are traditional lacing system, Zone, and BOA. Each has pros and cons and choosing which system is “best” really comes down to the preference of the rider.
A traditional lacing system tends to give the most snug and customizable fit, although they take the longest to get on and off and are difficult to make quick adjustments to. Zone laces consist of pull cords to cinch down different zones of the boot, which are quick and easy to adjust but have a tendency to loosen up throughout the day. BOA systems are metal cables that run to a ratcheting dial. They are surely the quickest and easiest to get on and off, but can at times be difficult to get a fully customized fit. There are also a handful of hybrid lacing systems available, featuring a combination of Traditional and BOA lacing systems, for that fully customizable boot that can be easily adjusted on the fly.
For more information, check out our guide to buying the right snowboard boot here. Now that we’ve broken down some of the basics to know before buying a snowboard boot, let’s get into the top women’s snowboard boots for the upcoming season to upgrade your snowboard kit.
The Best Women’s Snowboard Boots
Burton Limelight BOA (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $340
Burton’s Limelight is a boot designed with the ease of a BOA closure system but created to give you the perfect fit. The Dual-Zone with Lockdown tech increases heel hold by including a heel-specific cable system that locks the ankle and heel in place. This gives you maximum control over your boots, and thereby maximum control over your board. Describing its stiffness, Burton writes, “A not too stiff, not too soft flex means you can push your skills without being pushed around.” It’s the all-in-one boot, from resort riding to backcountry and everything in between, for the true all-mountain rider.
DC Lotus Step On (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $370
DC is getting in on the Step On trend by upgrading their DC Lotus boot model to a Step On version. These boots and bindings give the optimal level of comfort, performance, and convenience with the ability to simply step onto your binding, click in, and shred. With a medium-flex and Dual Zone BOA Fit System, the DC Lotus has supreme micro-adjustability with a clean style. These boots boast a 4/10 flex, which puts them on the softer side, making these great for newer riders or park riders who like a more playful, relaxed boot. Just remember that these boots are designed to be used with Step On bindings.
RIDE Hera (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $350
“The Hera blends performance, comfort, and durability,” write the boot engineers at RIDE. “At home anywhere on the mountain, you won’t be disappointed in the Hera.” The Hera is an excellent all-mountain boot, featuring medium stiffness that performs on groomers, dances through glades and moguls, and excels in the park. The rugged rubber outsole and +Slime Heel Pod provide optimal comfort and grip, maximizing control over your snowboard. This is a true all-arounder designed for the all-around rider who loves to rip through any terrain.
Bataleon Mosh BOA® Virtual Grape (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $400
Bataleon’s premiere women’s snowboard boot is the Mosh BOA. Ideal for all-mountain riding, this boot combines style and high-end performance to deliver a product with supreme fit and responsiveness. The Dual BOA system offers a dialed-in fit with a precise feeling in the ankle and heel. Also at the ankle is extra stitched insole cushioning for optimal comfort. The outer construction is durable and can stand up against the toughest things Mother Nature throws at you on the trail. With a 6/10 flex rating, it sits comfortably in the middle and is ideal for intermediate and progressing riders or experts who prefer a softer flexing boot.
K2 Contour (All-Mountain Intermediate/Advanced)
MSRP: $350
The K2 Contour is one of the brand’s favorite boots, with a freeride focus and mid-to-stiff flex. Tech highlights include the award-winning Co Conda™ liner lacing system and BOA Fit dial. An adjustable harness pulls your heel in the pocket, keeping it hugged to reduce any lift. The toe box has a roomier fit making this an ideal boot for those with wider feet. Advanced riders will appreciate its responsiveness, while intermediate riders will love the approachable flex that isn’t too demanding. The external articulating cuff reduces distortion, taking pressure off your knees. The K2 Contour is the perfect combo of comfort and performance.
Salomon Kiana Dual BOA (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $410
Salomon boasts, “The Kiana Dual BOA® features a precise fit and progressive flex focused on freestyle performance.” The BOA lacing system makes for easy-on, easy-off, and quick adjustments without having to remove your gloves. Additionally, the medium flex makes for a more forgiving boot that is great for a range of riders including park rats, all-mountain rippers, and intermediate to advanced riders. The progressive flex helps lock in and secure your heel, while the heat moldable boot liner helps with the break-in process and ensures long-lasting comfort.
ThirtyTwo Women’s Lashed Double BOA (Freestyle)
MSRP: $350
The ThirtyTwo Lashed Double BOA boots, featuring a traditional heat moldable liner and a standard dual-BOA fit, are a great combination of comfort, medium flex, and control. An inner ankle harness keeps the heel secure and the BOA adjustments allow for an even fit across the entirety of the boot. Rated at a 6/10 on the flex scale, the Lashed Double BOA is perfect for freestyle riders and progressing intermediates. Park riders who want a softer boot will also enjoy the Lashed Double BOA.
To support a good cause, go for the Women’s Lashed Double BOA X B4BC Boot. This crossover boot between Thirtytwo and Boarding for Breast Cancer features a limited edition green and pink colorway, with a portion of sales proceeds go towards the non-profit’s breast cancer awareness and prevention events and programming.
Header image @Steamboat Resort
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December 18, 2024
