When shopping for outdoor 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 will be best suited to those boots. Before we dive into the product, 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 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 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.
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. Burton writes about its stiffness, “An overall soft and forgiving flex brings it all together for boots that work with you to bring more fun and freedom to every run.” Now who doesn’t want more fun and freedom on every run?
DC Phase BOA Pro Step On (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $400
Among the latest snowboard trends is the Step On. 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. DC’s boot builders noted that for this new 23/24 model they “added top-of-the-line tech to the simple, skate-inspired upper, starting with the lightning-fast Dual Zone BOA Fit System equipped with our patent-pending SUPERLOCK heel harness to eliminate heel slipping and deliver a more responsive ride.” In addition, they also upgraded their liners to feel more responsive and warmer with coveted PrimaLoft insulation. These boots boast a 5/10 flex rating, making them ideal for the less aggressive rider who has a more playful, freeride style.
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.
Nidecker Kita (All-Mountain Advanced/Speed)
MSRP: $400
Rated at 9/10 on the flex scale, the Nidecker Kita is one seriously stiff women’s snowboard boot. Designed specifically for riding fast and going hard, the Kita performs. Despite its stiffness, however, the Kita is also incredibly comfortable. “Comfort is key to its design,” Nidecker writes, “starting with an asymmetrical shape that perfectly matches our bindings for a really natural connection to your board.” There are also two EVA inserts in the midsole to dampen vibrations and ensure a smooth ride when you’re zipping down the mountain.
K2 Kinsley (All-Mountain Intermediate)
MSRP: $320
The K2 Kinsley is a great women’s snowboard boot for progressing intermediate snowboarders or more advanced riders who don’t want the stiffest boot on the market. The Double BOA closure keeps your foot locked in and in control of your board no matter what conditions you’re riding in. It has a dedicated BOA dial for the upper shell and a second dial dedicated to closing the lower part of the shell. This is a slightly more comfort-oriented boot with a roomier fit — perfect for those with wider feet. These boots are also super durable so you can thrash them up and keep on riding for seasons to come. Add on a fully heat moldable liner and you’ve got everything you need for a stellar day on the mountain.
Salomon Scarlet BOA (All-Mountain Beginner)
MSRP: $250
Salomon boasts, “The Scarlet BOA emphasizes comfort and convenience in a softer profile, allowing progression and performance for those seeking a forgiving boot.” The BOA lacing system makes for easy-on, easy-off, and quick adjustments without having to remove your gloves. Additionally, the soft flex makes for a super forgiving boot that is easy to wrangle around without responding too harshly. This makes it a great option for newer snowboarders hoping to up their game and get out of those used resort rentals, or for more experienced riders who are looking for both a fun, playful boot for park riding and a boot they can enjoy on mellow days on the mountain.
ThirtyTwo STW Double BOA W’s (Freestyle)
MSRP: $280
The STW Double BOA boots are a great combination of comfort, easy flex, and control. The Dual BOA Closure System locks in your forefoot, while riders can control upper stability independently. Rated at a 3/10 on the flex scale, this thing really moves with your feet, allowing you to put as much stank on your riding as your heart desires while being extremely forgiving. The Double BOA fit system allows you to lock in your feet and make micro-adjustments to the fit with ease. The fleece collar ensures all-day dry warmth, and the Heel Hold System optimizes control over your board.
Header image @Steamboat Resort
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December 24, 2023
