Everyone knows that when enjoying a sport, it is important to buy the right gear. Equipment is key to preventing foot and ankle injuries and to achieve top performance. The same principals go hand in hand when considering equipment for snowboarding. One of the most important pieces of snowboarding gear is the boots that your feet are housed in while on the slope. If these boots do not fit properly, they can cause great injury that can render a person immobile for long periods of time.
By far the most important part of making your selection is ensuring that the boots actually fit the right way. The lightest outsole and best shock-absorbing materials in the world won’t benefit you if your feet are sliding around, are cramped, or your toes are crushed and bent in.
People buying boots for the first time often make the mistake of buying boots that fit like comfortable shoes. This means the boots are usually too big because they break in overtime and allow the foot to move around too much. Many riders end up downsizing a half size from their regular shoe size to ensure a snug fit so that their feet do not move around while on the slopes. When you’re trying on boots for the first time, make sure your foot is all the way back into the heel pocket and get the laces nice and tight before evaluating how everything feels. If the heel is not situated properly, it will throw off the entire fit of the boot.
Once you’re laced up tight, bend your knees and flex the boots in different directions, like you would while snowboarding. Your foot should have firm, comfortable pressure everywhere except your toes, which should be just brushing the end of the boot. As you lean forward into the boots, the heels should feel secure but should not slip. Potential problem signs include pinching, cramped toes, a loose fit, or loss of circulation, all of which may mean it’s time to try another size or a different boot altogether.
Also, consider socks when picking out boots. Bring a pair that you regularly use with you when trying on your snowboard boots. This will help you ensure that the boots are tight enough but not too tight as to cut off circulation.
Even with the best fitting snowboarding shoes, you can suffer an injury while snowboarding. If you hurt your foot or ankle when participating in sports, it is important to see a podiatrist right away. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Foot doctor Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico and his highly trained team can help you treat your traumatic snowboarding foot or ankle injury. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.