Every winter sees a box-fresh batch of new boots from our favourite brands, and we’ve taken it upon ourselves to find the best snowboard boots around right now. Although we’d happily hit the mountain wearing any of the boots below, we ended up with a clear winner: Salomon’s brilliant Dialogue Dual BOA boots. Standout features include the use of hi-tech Ultralon Performance foams for the heat-mouldable liner, the DAMPLite+ Outsole’s shock-absorbing blend of EVA rubber and the built-in heel cage, which provides the optimum balance of support and flex. Pair them with one of the best snowboards, and take on the slopes in style.
However, they might not suit everyone, which is why we’ve gathered a range of boots for different use cases and budgets below. Read on for our pick of the best snowboard boots around. While you’re kitting up, you might also want to check out our pro guides to the best ski jackets and the best ski pants, to keep you warm, stylish and protected in the snow.
How to choose the best snowboard boots for you
When it comes to snowboard boots, there’s more overlap between the different styles than there is between boards. It’s critical that you take the time to research the features which will suit your particular style of riding, and even more important to try them on (ideally tackling a few runs) because the features which could make or break your day on the slopes aren’t necessarily visible. Here are the three types of snowboard boot you’re most likely to come across:
Freestyle boots
These have less stiffness than all-mountain boots, in order to allow for a wider range of motion without the need to apply excessive force. But remember how we said there’s more overlap between snowboard boots than snowboards? Freestyle boots are a great example – their softer flex makes them a great all-rounder for lighter riders who might struggle to stomp tricky landings.
All-mountain boots
This is the most common type of snowboard boot – a slightly stiffer design which is extra-responsive, in order to allow riders to carve through the snow with minimal effort.
Freeride boots
Similar to all-mountain boots, but with features such as increased traction for hiking (for those occasions when you’re exploring beyond the ski lifts), more durable materials and thicker boot liners and insoles (often with some kind of self-heating element).
The best snowboard boots to buy now
(Image credit: Salomon)
The Salomon Dialogue Dual Boa snowboard boots are a rare breed – boots which tick every single box. We love everything about them, whether it’s the dual zone lacing system for its effortless ease of use (and the fact you can tighten the ankle separately from the instep), or the enhanced level of comfort, thanks…
Read more:Best snowboard boots 2021: Hit the mountains with confidence