How to Size Kid's Snowboard Boots

Getting the right snowboard boots is a first priority for any snowboarder. The process can be a bit more difficult when purchasing boots for children because they don't have a good idea of how boots need to fit and might just pick the boots that look the nicest. Getting information from them on how the boot feels can be a bit tough, too. So it's up to the parent or guardian to lend a hand. Getting the right size requires close attention during the fitting process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Go to a snowboard shop or sports shop where they sell children's snowboard boots.

Step 2

Get a couple of boots in your child's size. Snowboard boots size equates to shoe size.

Step 3

Put the left boot and right boot onto your child's feet. Tighten and secure the inner liner lacing, then repeat for the outer boot lacing.

Step 4

Once the boots are tightened, feel for your child's toes. The toes should brush the front toe of the boot without getting scrunched up. Make sure there isn't much room between the sides of the feet and boots; they should be as snug as possible without causing discomfort.

Step 5

Have your child stand up. Hold the heels of the boot and ask your child to lean forward. When he leans, be sure his heels do not rise up in the boot. They should stay in place without moving. If they do lift, try a different pair of boots or a smaller size.

Step 6

Allow your child to walk around for a couple of minutes. Make sure the boots are comfortable and not squeezing your child's feet. Double check the heel lift to make sure the heels don't lift up after your child has broken them in.

Tips & Warnings

For your child's first pair of boots, opt for a softer, more flexible pair to help your child adapt to snowboarding boots. Stiff boots will be uncomfortable and more difficult to walk and move in. Boots with removable shims and footbeds allow for some growing room and extra usage when your child's feet grow.

For your child's first pair of boots, opt for a softer, more flexible pair to help your child adapt to snowboarding boots. Stiff boots will be uncomfortable and more difficult to walk and move in.

Boots with removable shims and footbeds allow for some growing room and extra usage when your child's feet grow.

Avoid buying bigger boots for your child to grow into. While this might sound like an economic idea, snowboard boots should fit snugly and shouldn't allow either foot to swim around or your child will lose control of the board and risk injury.

Article Written By Joe Fletcher

Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.

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