Beginners snowboard gear (boots)?

Question

I've never boarded before and am considering buying some boots. I've skied before and have had terrible experiences with rented ski boots...

Any suggestions for good beginner boots? As I said, I ski pretty well (not amazing but well) so I'm kind of used to those type of boots... but I do REALLY like the comfort of skate shoes...

anyways, I'm ranting.. Suggestions anyone?

Thanks!

Answer 1

When you select a boot?  Some boots will not fit all bindings, but I've been known to press in a pair.  I liked riding this season, and those are a solid universal boot with sole.  Max boots are good for a season of everyday riding.  Mine didn't have the non-slip padding, but they're like stuffed animals after break-in.

Answer 2

Try a lot of different brands of boots to get the one that fits you the best.  Make sure to include 32 in the list of brands: they make the lightest snowboard boots out there.

Answer 3

Good answer by emmaskis above, dont go for a percific brand when buying boots and dont be influenced by what people recommend, as different brands of boot fit different shapes of feet. Generally if you have narrow feet check out Northwave, Salomon and Rome. If you have wide feet Vans, 32 and DC would probably be good for you. The only way to really know is to go down the nearest shop to you that sells a large range of boots, and try a large range on and go with the ones that fit your feet the best regardless of brand colour or style. Your boots should be tight but still comfee, your toes should brush up aginst the nose of the boot, and when you lift your heel the base of the boot should follow your foot rather than fall away from your foot. Its very important to get the right boots for you otherwise you will find riding in them a nightmare. Hope this helps, Good luck.

Answer 4

vans, dc, or morrow. dont get anything too pricy until your sure that your going to stick with snowboarding.

Answer 5

hey, just so you know, since snowboard boots are way more comfortible than ski boots its really easy to find a comfortible fit in rentals. just throwing that out there take it or leave it.

im in the same boat a you because i really hate most ski boots and all i wear is vans and hawk skate shoes

ive got some morrows that i love so id have to suggest them but really its what you like. go to a sports authority and try a bunch on till one fits well

EDIT: id also like to mention that i love my boots so much that the slopes arent the only place i wear them. so belive me comfort is easy to find

Answer 6

Anything on the Vans line or DC line.

Burton is pure sh*t I have to say, they make a decent board but the boots are awful.

Van have a great fit as does DC that keeps you comfortable all day and are very versatile boots as you can progress with them.

Answer 7

don't look for a specific brand, but a good fit. make sure the boot is a tiny bit too tight (not enough to hurt) because they will pack out, unless maybe they are used.

in general, for me, I found that Salomon had the best boots above all (stiff flex and narrow foot), Vans were ok as well, and 32 were way too wide. I have pretty narrow feet.

Answer 8

ski boots rented not that well, but if you are a beginner please rent before you buy so you no what you are looking  for know how stuff fits. They are very comfy.

Answer 9

Burton is awesome do not listen to that guy.all my stuff is from Burton its so comfortable.

Answer 10

Don't buy the cheapest boots.  If you're just going to buy the bottom of the line go with rentals.

Spend a few extra bucks and get nice ones because you'll be able to use them for years.

I agree with staying away from Burton, they're about looks and name rather than comfort & quality.  My 32 boots are fantastic, they're light & comfortable.

Answer 11

i dont know the names of the bindings but my friend had some where you dont need boots you could just whear skate shoes or normal boots

Answer 12

I just read all of the above and agree with the 2 longest answers. Try before you buy... but like someone else mentioned. Snowboard boot rentals are not that bad... Honestly i rented mine for about 2 seasons and i had no problems at all. And just to mention... my rentals were Burtons and like i said.. COMFY =D

Answer 13

i've tried quite a few pairs of boots and i have to agree that burton doesnt make the best boots. forum makes super comfy boots (which is funny cause burton owns them).

32 also makes super nice boots. they are the lightest boots around but i found them wide (mens and ladies). i have wider feet so i didnt think they would be too bad but they were too wide for me.

DC and Vans also make good boots.

you can also try and find a boot with the BOA lacing system. its like a crank system where the boots get as tight as you can pull. its good because sometime on days where you ride super aggressive...the laces loosen...instead of retying the boot you just crank it.

some prefer BOA some prefer the conventional way.

when you try your boot on ALWAYS bring the socks you'll most likely ride in. try and go to a proper shop where the guys know what they're talking about (your feet will thank you).

try and grab something soon now that all the prices are cheap.

good luck, have fun riding