Vans: Men's Encore Snowboard Boot

If you prefer to ride long more than you ride hard, Vans' easy-fitting Men's Encore is one of the best snowboarding boots you'll find for long days on the mountain. The Encore is a skate-inspired snowboard boot that has been a favorite among easy-going cruisers and recreational riders for six seasons. During that time Van tweaked the boot for a better fit and performance the same way most sports car companies build up their refinements and improve on later models. This season Vans gave their Encore models a lighter Vanslite Snowaffle Sole made with a one-piece injection-molded EVA midsole. The Vanslite Snowaffle Sole uses Vans' secret recipe rubber compound throughout the high-wear areas on the boot, but these enhancements won't mute your energy transmission to your bindings and board. In fact, if you checked out the Vans Pro-Flex Snowaffle Air Outsole on previous Encores, you'll notice better sensitivity with the benefit of added durability through multiple seasons. The Encore uses a toasty Trifit Asym-X thermal liner that offers great heel-hold technology for performance. Up top you'll find a warm, seam-brushed fleece upper cuff. One of the best features on the Encore--the dial-oriented BOA H2 Coiler Closure system--remains very similar to seasons past. The BOA closure allows for simple and easy entries and exits while the rotating dial tweaks your fit with almost near-infinite settings. The low-profile die-cut EVA midsole gives you great cushioning with metatarsal and heel impact pads, but doesn't sacrifice the skate look (just remember that this boot doesn't have the air sole--that's something aggressive riders want after taking massive air). The ultra-comfortable Vans flex rating makes the Encore a great choice for freeriders and freestyle enthusiasts who don't need the rock-solid stiffness of some extreme or race-oriented boots.

• Vans flex rating score: 2-3 (8 is the stiffest)
• Trifit Asym-X thermal liner for warmth and excellent heel hold
• Comfortable 3D molded tongue
• TPU tongue cable protector to minimize wear over multiple seasons
• Waterproof synthetic leather and textile upper
• Proven Vans BOA H2 Coiler Closure System with dial
• Internal web harness
• New Vanslite Snowaffle Sole made with a one-piece injection-molded EVA midsole and rubber reinforcements along high wear areas