Best Splitboard Boots of 2025

So, you’re thinking about trying splitboarding? It’s a fantastic way to explore backcountry terrain and combine snowboarding with hiking. One of the great things about splitboarding is that you don’t need special boots. You can actually use your regular snowboard boots with splitboard bindings. All you need to do is get a pair of splitboard bindings that are compatible with your boots. Two of my favorite bindings are the Burton Step On Bindings and the Karakoram Nomad Bindings. They’re both reliable and easy to use, making them great options for beginners and experienced splitboarders alike.

1. Burton Photon Step On

Flex: 6 (Medium)
Lacing: Dual Zone Boa®
Sole: Step On™ EST® Outsole
Ability Level: Advanced-Expert

The Burton Photon Step On boots are a game-changer for aggressive riders who love control. They offer a medium flex rating of 6, striking a balance between quick edge engagement and a playful, forgiving feel. The firm flex ensures riders can tackle any terrain while maintaining precision. With Total Comfort Construction, these boots feel broken-in right out of the box, eliminating the awkward break-in period. The Imprint™ 3 Liner, made with heat-moldable Ultralon foam, ensures a custom fit over time, providing lasting comfort and warmth. Plus, the Step On system offers unmatched convenience, allowing for quick, secure attachment to compatible bindings.

The Burton Photon Step On boots also feature advanced tech to enhance performance. The Dual Zone Boa® System with New Sequence™ and Coiler™ Technology offers easy and efficient lacing adjustments, while the Step On™ EST® Outsole lowers your center of gravity for a better board feel. The boots use Shrinkage™ Footprint Reduction Technology, which minimizes bulk and prevents toe drag. For warmth, the Sleeping Bag Reflective Foil reflects heat back to your feet, ensuring comfort even in cold conditions. The Aegis™ Antimicrobial Coating helps keep the boots fresh, while the Snow-Proof Internal Gusset keeps your feet dry. Overall, these boots provide control, comfort, and ease for serious riders.

What I like:

• Responsive flex for aggressive riding.
• Comfortable and heat-moldable liner.
• Convenient Step On system.

What I don’t:

• Requires specific Burton Step On bindings.
• Expensive.

View at EVO

2. Nitro Profile Step On TLS

Flex: Medium
Lacing: TLS Twin Lacing System
Sole: Nitro Step On® Outsole
Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced

The Nitro Profile Step On TLS Boots combines power, comfort, and ease of use. The Step On® Nitro Rubber Sole and TLS lacing system make these boots highly responsive yet comfortable. The Cloud Nine Liner, paired with the Therminator Shield, keeps your feet warm no matter where you ride. From the park to the peaks, these boots are designed to perform in all conditions. The Flex Link Design ensures an even flex at the ankle, providing great movement without feeling bulky. These boots are built for riders who want a balance of flexibility and support, perfect for any splitboarding adventure.

Nitro’s TLS Twin Lacing System is a standout feature, making lacing and unlacing quick and easy. The Dyneema® laces are durable and low-friction, reducing wear. The RE/LACE Liner Locker allows easy inner boot adjustments without needing to untie the whole boot. These boots also come with an adjustable Power Tongue Stiffener for customizable boot response. The Ortholite® High Cup Footbed and air dampening ensure that your feet stay cushioned and supported. Plus, with a Nitro Step On® Outsole made from up to 30% recycled rubber, they’re eco-friendly too. The Nitro Profile Step On TLS boots are versatile, durable, and built for serious riders.

What I like:

• Easy to get in and out of.
• Comfortable and warm.
• Powerful and responsive.

What I don’t:

• Comes with a hefty price tag.
• Not the best choice for beginners.
• Not as customizable as other boots.

View at EVO

3. Burton Felix Step On – Women’s

Flex: 6 (Medium)
Lacing: Dual Zone Boa®
Sole: Step On™ EST® Outsole
Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced

The Burton Felix Step On Women’s Slpitboard boots make strapping in a breeze, eliminating the hassle of fiddly straps and squats before each run. With the Step On system, you’ll experience unmatched convenience while enjoying top-tier comfort and performance. The boots have a medium flex rating of 6, balancing quick edge engagement with a forgiving feel, ideal for all-around riders. The Imprint™ 3 Liner provides an out-of-the-box broken-in feel, so there’s no painful break-in period. The boots also have a women’s specific cuff that fits perfectly, giving a snug yet comfortable fit.

The Dual Zone Boa® System offers easy, quick lace adjustments, so you’re ready to go in seconds. These boots also feature a Plush Cuff 1.0 with a soft fur lining, ensuring your calves feel cozy and supported. The Step On™ EST® outsole connects directly to your board, lowering your center of gravity for a more surf-like feel. With the additional Sleeping Bag Reflective Foil underfoot, your feet stay warm even in cold conditions. The antimicrobial coating inside the boots keeps them smelling fresh all season long. The Burton Felix Step On boots are the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and performance for women splitboarders.

What I like:

• Convenient Step On system.
• Comfortable liner and women’s specific cuff.
• Responsive mid-stiff flex.
• Precise adjustments with Dual Zone Boa® System.

What I don’t:

• More expensive than traditional boots.
• Requires compatible Step On bindings.
• Limited compatibility with other brands.
• Not ideal for aggressive riders.

View at EVO

4. DC Control

Flex: 4 (Soft)
Lacing: Dual BOA®
Sole: Step On® Outsole
Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced

The DC Control Step On boots are perfect for riders who want convenience and performance. These boots offer moderate flex with a rating of 4, making them versatile for all-mountain conditions. The standout feature is the Step On® interface, allowing riders to simply click in and ride without fiddling with straps. This saves time and eliminates the hassle of sitting down to strap in. The boots are compatible with Burton Step On® bindings only, ensuring seamless integration. They’re easy to walk in, which is great when moving around the mountain or taking a break. Wide-footed riders will appreciate the extra room, and the double BOA® system ensures a snug, adjustable fit.

The comfort of the DC Control Step On boots is top-notch. They feature the Response II liner, made of EVA memory foam and heat-moldable EVA for a custom fit. The 360º power strap and anatomical latex J-bars provide superior heel support. Inside, the boots have a 100% recycled insole for stability in tough conditions. The boots also have 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulation to keep your feet warm and an internal ankle harness for extra support. The dual BOA® system with H4 Coiler dials allows easy adjustments in the forefoot and ankle areas. Plus, the Step On® outsole and the Impact-ALG™ insoles deliver great comfort and impact protection all day long.

What I like:

• Easy to use with Step On interface
• Comfortable and supportive
• Warm with 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulation
• Affordable

What I don’t:

• Only compatible with Burton Step On bindings

View at EVO

5. Bataleon Salsa

Flex: 6 (Medium)
Lacing: Dual BOA®
Sole: Rubber Outsole
Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced

The Bataleon Salsa BOA Boots bring a solid mix of comfort, performance, and durability. With a flex rating of 6, these boots strike the right balance between stiff and soft. This makes them perfect for all-mountain riders. The Dual BOA lacing system ensures a secure and customizable fit. You can easily tighten or loosen the boots with the twist of a dial. The Premium Liners are heat moldable, which means they can shape your feet for a perfect fit. The Triple Density Insole and 3D Molded Ankle Support give you extra cushioning and protection. These boots are built to last with the TPU Injected Backstay and Rubber Outsole, making them a durable choice for tough terrains.

The Bataleon Salsa boots are also packed with useful features. The Future Flex Construction provides flexibility without sacrificing durability. You get a smooth, natural range of motion thanks to the articulated cuff. The Pressure Relief Tongue and internal heel support ensure your feet stay comfortable, even on long rides. The EVA Foam Midsole helps absorb shocks, adding to the overall comfort. On top of that, the iridescent Team colorway adds some serious style points. These boots are designed to perform well on any mountain while keeping you comfortable and supported all day long. With the Thermal Shield and TPU Injected Toebox, your feet will stay warm and protected in harsh conditions.

What I like:

• Comfortable and high-performing boots.
• Durable construction with Future Flex technology.
• Stylish iridescent Team colorway.

What I don’t:

• Can be too stiff for some riders.

View at EVO

6. Bataleon Mosh – Women’s

Flex: 6 (Medium)
Lacing: Dual BOA®
Sole: Rubber Outsole
Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced

The Bataleon Mosh BOA Boots for women are a solid choice for all-mountain riding. They offer a medium flex rating of 6, making them versatile enough for a wide range of terrain. The dual BOA lacing system makes it super easy to dial in the perfect fit, ensuring that your boots stay snug throughout the day. With a heat-moldable premium liner, you get a custom fit, along with 3D molded ankle support and cushioning that cradles your feet. Even after long sessions, your feet feel comfortable and supported. The ergonomic entry makes getting in and out of the boots hassle-free, while the internal heel support helps lock your foot in place.

These boots are designed to withstand tough conditions while keeping you agile. The Future Flex construction offers both durability and flexibility, making them a great option for intermediate to advanced riders. The triple-density insole provides superior cushioning, and the rubber outsole combined with EVA foam ensures a solid grip on the snow. Features like the TPU-injected toebox and backstay add extra protection and support, so you can handle rough terrain with confidence. The articulated cuff allows for a natural range of motion, improving your ride experience. All in all, the Bataleon Mosh boots deliver on both comfort and performance, making them an excellent choice for riders looking for quality gear.

What I like:

• Comfortable and supportive
• Excellent performance on any terrain
• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to adjust the fit

What I don’t:

• Not ideal for high-volume feet
• Limited color options

View at EVO

7. Ride Torrent

Flex: 7 (Stiff)
Lacing: H4 Boa® Focus Fit System
Sole: Michelin® Hybrid Traverse Sole
Ability Level: Advanced-Expert

The Ride Torrent is an excellent choice for eco-conscious riders who don’t want to sacrifice performance. The boots feature a plant-based heel counter, toe cap, and a Sugarcane-based midsole, making them environmentally friendly. The Michelin hybrid rubber outsole provides top-tier grip, so you can ride confidently. Inside, the Black Gold Bamboo Charcoal lining helps keep odors at bay and regulates temperature. It’s a sustainable option that still delivers on comfort and durability. With a feel rating of 7, these boots strike the right balance between flexibility and support for a wide range of riding styles.

The fit is impressive, thanks to the 1:1 Lasting that gives seamless liner-to-shell integration. The Intuition™ Trap Wrap Liner offers superior rebound and support, while the internal and external J Bars ensure your ankle and heel stay locked in. The Boa® Focus Fit System makes tightening the boots a breeze, offering a secure, customizable fit with just a dial. The +Slime Midsole and Eco +Slime Impacto™ Elite Insole add comfort and reduce impact, making them ideal for long days on the slopes. With durable TPU heel and toe caps, plus heat-reflective foil to keep your feet warm, the Ride Torrent is built for both performance and comfort.

What I like:

• Sustainable materials
• High performance
• Comfortable fit
• Responsive feel
• Excellent grip

What I don’t:

• Limited availability in some areas

View at EVO

8. K2 Raider

Flex: 5 (Medium)
Lacing: H4 Boa® Coiler
Sole: RollSole™ Outsole
Ability Level: Beginner-Intermediate

The K2 Raider Boots are designed for riders who value comfort and ease. These boots are great for all-mountain riding, with a medium-soft flex rating of 5 out of 10. They feature heat-moldable Intuition™ Comfort Foam liners, which offer a personalized, snug fit after just a few rides. The liners are soft but durable, and they come with J-Bars for added ankle support. This means your heel stays locked in place while still allowing freedom of movement. Whether you’re new to splitboarding or a seasoned rider, these boots will give you a comfortable, secure fit all day long.

The lacing system on the K2 Raider uses the H4 Boa® Coiler, a simple but effective mechanism. You can tighten the boots evenly with minimal effort, keeping them snug and neat. The RollSole™ outsole provides side-to-side mobility without sacrificing grip, making the boots feel lighter and more flexible. Another standout feature is the Harshmellow™ cushioning, which reduces vibration and impact while riding, keeping your feet from getting too tired. These boots feel broken in right out of the box, offering a balance of stiffness and comfort. If you’re looking for a versatile, comfy boot, the K2 Raider won’t disappoint.

What I like:

• Comfortable and easy to use
• Good for all-mountain riding
• Customizable fit

What I don’t:

• Not the most durable
• Can be a bit heavy
• Not ideal for advanced riders

View at EVO

Splitboard Boots: Comparison Table

How to Choose Splitboard Boots: A Guide for Beginners

Splitboarding is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the backcountry. But to make the most of it, you need the right gear, and one of the most critical pieces is your boots. Splitboard boots are designed to handle the unique demands of touring up steep slopes and riding down challenging terrain. Choosing the right boots can be tricky, especially for beginners. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you can make the best decision for your needs.

Understanding Splitboard Boots

Splitboard boots are similar to traditional snowboarding boots, but they come with some key differences. They need to perform well during both the uphill and downhill portions of your adventure. When you’re touring, you’ll want boots that are comfortable, light, and flexible. However, when it’s time to ride down, you’ll need something that provides stiffness and control.

Finding the balance between flexibility and support is crucial. Some boots are made specifically for splitboarding, while others can be used for both snowboarding and splitboarding. If you’re starting, this distinction is essential to consider.

Stiffness: Flexibility vs. Support

Boot stiffness is one of the most important factors to consider. Boots range from soft to stiff. For splitboarding, most people recommend boots that are moderately stiff to very stiff.

Stiff boots provide more control during the downhill ride, especially when tackling difficult terrain. A stiffer boot will offer more stability at high speeds and in deep snow. However, when you’re skinning uphill, a stiffer boot can feel restrictive and less comfortable for long tours.

On the other hand, a softer boot gives more flexibility, which can be comfortable for hiking uphill. But they might not provide enough control for the descent. So, you need to strike a balance between comfort and performance. If you’re a beginner, it might be better to start with something more flexible, gradually working your way up to stiffer boots as you gain more experience.

Fit: The Right Size Matters

Fit is arguably the most crucial factor. A poorly fitting boot can ruin your entire day, whether you’re going uphill or down. Your boots should fit snugly without causing any pain or pressure points. They should feel like a firm handshake around your foot.

When trying on boots, make sure to wear your splitboarding socks. Your heel should stay in place when you walk or ride; any heel lift can cause blisters. You also want to avoid too much room in the toe box, as your toes need to stay warm, but they shouldn’t be crammed against the front.

It’s a good idea to try on several pairs before deciding. Many boots have heat-moldable liners that shape to your feet after wearing them, so keep this in mind if the fit isn’t perfect right away.

Touring Features: Walk Mode and Crampon Compatibility

One feature that sets these boots apart from regular snowboarding boots is their touring-specific design. Many splitboard boots come with a walk mode, allowing for more range of motion when you’re skinning uphill. This feature makes the uphill journey more comfortable, giving you a greater stride when climbing.

Another thing to consider is crampon compatibility. If you plan to tackle steep or icy terrain, you might need to use crampons. Make sure your boots can accommodate them. Some boots are designed to work seamlessly with certain types of crampons, while others may not.

Lacing Systems: Traditional, Speed Lace, or BOA?

The type of lacing system your boots have can affect both comfort and convenience. There are three main types to choose from: traditional laces, speed lacing systems, and BOA systems.

Traditional laces give you the most control over the tightness of your boots. You can adjust them in different zones to fine-tune your fit. However, they can be tricky to tighten with cold hands or in deep snow.

Speed lace systems, like those found on some Burton boots, are easier to use than traditional laces. You pull a cord, and the system tightens quickly. While convenient, they don’t offer the same level of customization as traditional laces.

BOA systems use a dial to tighten or loosen the boot. They are the most convenient, as you can make adjustments with just one hand. However, some people find that BOA systems don’t offer the same precise fit as traditional laces.

Boot Insulation: Warmth for Long Days

Keeping your feet warm is critical, especially on long days in the backcountry. Splitboarding often involves being outside for several hours, if not all day. Cold feet can quickly turn a great day into a miserable one.

Look for boots with good insulation and liners that keep your feet warm even in frigid conditions. Heat-moldable liners are a great option, as they conform to your feet, providing a custom fit and extra warmth. Some liners even come with reflective materials that help retain heat, which can be a huge benefit on colder days.

Weight: Light for the Climb, Strong for the Ride

Splitboarding involves a lot of climbing. As a result, the weight of your boots is an important factor. Lighter boots make the uphill journey easier. However, you don’t want to sacrifice durability or support for the sake of shedding weight.

Finding a balance between a lightweight boot and one that offers enough protection and stiffness for the ride down is key. If your boots are too heavy, you’ll wear yourself out on the ascent. But if they’re too light and flexible, you might struggle with control when you need it most.

Durability: Built to Last

Splitboarding is tough on gear. Your boots need to withstand harsh conditions, including snow, ice, and rocky terrain. When choosing boots, look for high-quality materials and sturdy construction.

Reinforced areas, especially around the toe and heel, can prevent wear and tear. Some boots come with additional protective layers that guard against sharp edges from your crampons. A durable boot will not only last longer but will also give you better performance over time.

Price: Invest Wisely

Like most outdoor gear, splitboard boots come in a range of prices. While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper pair, your boots are not the place to cut corners. Investing in a good pair of boots will make your experience much more enjoyable.

More expensive boots often come with better features, such as lighter materials, more durable construction, and higher levels of customization. That said, you don’t need to buy the most expensive pair to get something that works well. Focus on finding boots that meet your needs, whether that’s warmth, flexibility, or durability.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right splitboard boots is all about finding the balance between comfort, control, and durability. Take the time to try on different pairs, consider the conditions you’ll be riding in, and think about your personal preferences. The right boots will make your experience more enjoyable, whether you’re climbing uphill or shredding down. With the right choice, you’ll be ready to tackle any backcountry adventure that comes your way.