Skill Level
Your children's skill levels determine their requirements when it comes to snowboarding boots. Check for the recommended-use tag that should denote if the boots are suitable for kids just starting out in the sport or if they are for children who are already more experienced and might enjoy freestyle boarding.
Size Adjustability
Factor in sudden growth spurts when purchasing children's snowboarding boots. Some models incorporate the EVA Room-To-Grow foot bed that allows you to make adjustments if you hit the slopes and your child complains that the boots are suddenly a bit too snug. This type of snowboard boot is usually about midrange on the price scale.
Liners
Consider the availability of removable liners if your child is an advanced snowboarder. Miniature adult boots come standard with removable liners that may be heat-molded for the perfect foot fit. Avoid this boot for obvious reasons if your child is still experiencing sudden growth spurts, since the liner molding limits the snowboarding boot's use after sudden foot growth.
Soft Flex Versus Hard Boots
Slightly more expensive than average are soft-flex children's snowboarding boots. They present a marriage of comfort and accurate fit. The soft flex makes a boot comfortable for walking, while you can remove a heat-moldable liner to fit the boot perfectly to your child's foot. Such a boot is usually rated a freestyle boot that is also useful for all terrains of snowboarding. Note that your child receives the foot support needed from a molded EVA foot bed.
Other children's snowboarding boots are hard, and some children might not take to the restriction of movement. This is especially true if the youngster expects to also wear the boots walking to the lodge.
Kids who like to wear their boots while having a quick lunch at the lodge may find that soft flex is a lot more comfortable.
Sizes of Children's Snowboarding Boots
Shop with your child whenever possible; if your child cannot accompany you, bring along a pair of shoes she routinely wears to ensure that you get the right size. Keep an eye out for sizing charts that denote European measurements, since some imported children's snowboarding boots do not feature the American standard sizing. Generally speaking, a 10-year-old child's size 6 shoe corresponds to a European-rated size 38, whereas a 7-year-old's size 3 matches a European size 34.
