27 August 2010, 2:40 pm

What are snowboard boots? Sounds like exactly what it is. But, what is snowboarding? Here is help about both.

Snowboarding is surfing on snow and combining skateboarding moves. You do not need skis or anything else to hold onto. You just need to learn your balance and throw in all the cool techniques from skateboarding. There are bindings that hold your feet in place. There are different styles of snowboarding-Freeride is the most popular where you simply just have fun sliding down the slopes, Freestyle is to use tricks and air, and Alpine which is extremely hard and way more dangerous.

Snowboard bindings are very crucial to keep your feet and boots in place with absolutely no moving or sliding. There are three different types of binding-hybrid, step-in, and strap-in. Screws are used to keep the bindings in place.

Boots are in two categories. Hard boots for Alpine for example and soft for things like Freeride and Freestyle. Hard boots are a lot like ski boots. They help you maintain control using the board and stability. Soft boots are like winter boots. They are designed to bend and move with your feet and body. Like if you need to bend or squat, jump in the air and do flips, for example. They need to mold to your feet and not feel loose or too tight. Boots are now being equipped with heat for the cold, harsh elements, and gel insoles for support.

So, now you have learned about snowboard boots. Time to hit the slopes!