How to Know When You Need New Snowboarding Boots

If you haven't bought a new pair of snowboard boots in a long time, there are several signs that they need to be replaced. If your snowboarding boots lasted for too long and are too small or too large, you should have them re-sized. If you have a wide foot, you should consider getting a wide size. Most normal shoe sizes won't be accurate enough for your feet, so wide snowboard boots can be the best option for you.

Size Guide for Snowboard Boots

When sizing snowboard boots, the width of your boot is just as important as the length. Too little width, or toe drag, can make snowboarding dangerous. Similarly, too much width can make it hard to lift your snowboard from edge to edge. To get the right size, you should check the manufacturer's recommended weight range, and always check the width of your boot as well.

A snowboard boot fitter can help you find the right fit for your feet. They will have you try on several styles and sizes of snowboard boots to determine the best fit. They will then measure your foot to ensure that the boot will fit properly. While selecting your boot, keep in mind that the lining of the boot will expand over time. This means that it's always best to size down for the first time.

The boot size chart should be used as a reference point. The size range for snowboard boots varies depending on the brand and country. Some brands are wider, while others are narrower.

Signs of a Packed Out Boot

If you're a skier or snowboarder, you've probably seen signs that a snowboard boot is packed out. First of all, check to see if there's a crease in the spine. This means the liner is no longer flexible enough to fit inside. Another sign is if your foot feels numb. You can also tell if your boot has packed out when it has a horizontal crease about halfway down the spine.

A packed-out boot is loose and will hinder your riding style and safety. The liner foam will have degraded, causing your boot to stretch. The boot may even no longer fit properly, changing the size and shape of your feet. This lack of support and compression will cause friction sores, blisters, and bruises.

If you notice that your snowboard boot is packed out too much, you should take it in for a refit. The outer shell can be replaced and the liner can be replaced. In the meantime, you can try putting a pair of thin socks inside your boots to reduce discomfort while you wait for the liner to expand.

Break-in Period

Getting the perfect fit when buying new snowboard boots is crucial. You want them to be as snug as possible, but you also want to be able to move around without having to squeeze them. That's where a break-in period comes in. This is an important time for your boots to reach their optimal fit, and you'll need to spend five or more sessions on the slopes to fully break them in.

The first indication that it's time for a new pair is if your boots no longer give you enough support. When your boots are too soft, you run the risk of causing injury to your ankles. Another sign that it's time to buy a new pair is if they're falling apart. Most boots and bindings should last for about 100 days before they need to be replaced.

Another sign of worn-out boots is when the shoe laces are coming loose. You can replace the laces with new ones. It's also a good idea to clean your snowboard boots after each use. To do this, you can clean your boots with a soft brush and warm water.

Liner Replacement

When new boots start to show problems, liner replacement is often the best solution. Aftermarket liners are generally more durable than the original equipment liners and will last about two to three times as long. You can even retrofit an 10 year old pair of boots with an aftermarket liner. But how do you find the best one?

A high-quality liner made of cork is made to fit your boot perfectly and is highly adjustable. The liner comes with pockets on the inside and outside, so you can add or remove it to suit your feet and boot volume. A good liner can last up to 500 days of regular use and can be easily swapped to a different boot.

While a new liner can be expensive, it will prolong the life of your snowboard boots. High-end snowboard boots will often have better-fitting liners than cheaper models. Liners made of foam will eventually wear out and become wider over time. They will also offer less warmth and protection. Your boot fitter will be able to help you adjust the liner to suit your feet.