Snowboard Boots
Like choosing shoes, buying snowboard boots  is all about comfort and style. But remember that it's not just looks that count when considering style. Both the type of bindings you plan to use as well as your riding style will be major factors to consider. This guide will discuss both of these issues as well as how to get the proper fit. You can also benefit from some of these quick picks, chosen by About.com as being some of the best for 2006. They also have recommendations for previous years too.
Fit and Sizing- Fitting -- You want to try on your boots late in the afternoon or after you have participated in some physical activity so that your feet are a bit bigger than normal. Swelling occurs naturally while boarding and it should be factored in when trying on your boots. Don't forget that the inner padding will naturally become compressed with use, so you will want to opt for the smallest size possible that still feels comfortable.
- Toe Movement -- In soft boots the fit will be slightly roomier than in hard boots, which should have minimal toe movement. Soft boots usually let you wiggle your toes, but in no case should your feet be able to slide around inside the boots.
- Heel Movement -- When it comes to the heels, make sure that the boots are snug enough that once laced up, you are unable to rise onto your toes and lift your heels. If you can lift your heels while in the boots, then they are too big.
- Narrow Feet -- Women and those men with narrow feet should try on women's boots for the best fit.
Boots Types Explained
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Soft boots - Most popular overall for their comfort, convenience, and ease of getting on and off.
- Used by freestylers and freeriders.
- Can be worn both on and off the slopes.
- Adjustible inner and outer laces make them easy to adjust for maximum fit and comfort.
- Because they are flexible and are used with highback bindings (either strap-on or flow-in), they allow the rider maximum mobility for doing tricks. That maneuverability is a must for the average snowboarder, which is why these boots are the most popular.
- For freestylers, opt for a boot with more flex to increase range. Freestyle boots will be cut lower and fthey will feature a looser molded inner padding. Freeriders should get a stiffer boot, usually called a freeride boot that offers more support in the ankle as well as inner laces to adjust flexibility.
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Hard boots - Less common.
- For use with step-in, a.k.a., plate bindings.
- Used by racers and alpine riders.
- Similar to alpine ski boots with the hard shell and strap system.
- Lots of ankle and calf support, but that also restricts maneuverability.
- Only used with step-in plate bindings and not many manufacturers focus on this type of setup.
- What they are good for is racing and carving sharp turns, which makes them a fast, precise, and the most powerful way to go.
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Hybrid boots - Popular, but not as much as soft boots.
- Used with step-in bindings.
- Offer a happy-medium between a strapless binding and the comfort of a soft boot.
- Match the step-in bindings, which makes them a good candidate for someone looking for the convenience of a strapless binding.
- Soft upper makes them as comfortable as a soft boot.
- Lacks in flexibility and control.
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Major Manufacturers
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