What To Look For
K2 has a full line of snowboarding boots for men, women and kids. Their boots have exclusive technology, including a VIBRAM sole and an Ultralon thermo-forming foam that is lightweight and resists packing out. Many feature a Boa dial lacing system that is very quick.
For men, the Thraxis is K2's expert level boot, and it has three Boa dials for an excellent fit. The T1 is the stiffest boot in K2's line and offers top-of-the-line performance for demanding applications, and is available in both single Boa and double Boa versions. The Darko is a good advanced intermediate boot for all-mountain boarding, while the Darko Boa is a little stiffer and suited to both all-mountain and park/trick applications. The entry level models include the Transit Boa, Domain, and Pulse.
For women, the Contour Boa, with a double Boa dial lace system, is the top-of-the-line performance boot. The Affair Boa is suitable for the rider looking for a good all-mountain boot that isn't quite as stiff as the Contour. K2 also offers the Affair without a Boa system. The Veil Boa is an easy-on boot perfect for the intermediate rider, while the Plush is K2's entry level boot designed for first-time riders.
K2 offers two boys' models, the Vandal Boa and Mini Turbo, and two girls' models, the Kat Boa and the Lil' Kat.
Common Pitfalls
Snowboarding boots don't work with all bindings, so before springing for a new pair, make sure they are compatible with the bindings on your board.
Check the fit at the heel carefully when trying on boots; the heel should be kept snug by the lacing system. If there is any slop, the performance will suffer.
The flex is also important to your ability to snowboard. Trick riders who play in terrain parks often prefer a softer flex, while racers and those doing hard charging down the mountain prefer a stiffer flex.
Where To Buy
K2 snowboard boots can be bought at most specialty ski/snowboard shops. Since the performance of your snowboarding boots is so dependent on its fit, it is best to buy them locally rather than online so that you can try them on and make sure the fit is perfect.
Cost
Snowboarding boots are much less expensive than ski boots. Entry level models like the Plush and Pulse retail for $110. The women's Haven Boa and men's Raider Boa are $170 in 2009. The Contour Double Boa and T1 Double Boa retail for $300, while the T1 Single Boa is $250. The Affair Boa and Darko Boa are $210.
