Use this step by step guide to help ensure you pick the best boot possible. 

Salomon Dialogue

Socks.  When you get down to it, it really all starts with the socks. Bring the socks you will be riding with and wear them when you try on the boots. 

How to find the best fit. 

In the toes: Stand in your normal riding position: feet shoulders width apart with a slight bend in the knees. In this position, your big toe ought to be just barely touching the front of the boot.

Your Heels: Standing in the same position, trying to keep your heels on the ground, lean forward checking for heel lift. This test is best if you can strap into a board with bindings and try to lift your heel. No boot is perfect, so try on as many boots as you can. Your patience will be rewarded.

Liners.  There are a few common liners you'll find:

Noeprene> These are a good liner because they keep their shape.

Linerless> These have a tendency to pack out over time so buy smaller boots as they will expand.

Therma Liners> These are moldable liners that form to fit your feet offering superior comfort but they tend to break down faster than other boots.

Lace up liners provide less lateral movement, helping to hold your heel down, and keep your feet warmer. These are great for all mountain riding. For freestylers however, lace up liners lack flexibility, making it difficult to tweak tricks. Which leads us to boot flex. 

Flex. You'll want a boot with some flex and forward lean. How much? It depends your style of riding. Freestylers want a flexible boot while all mountain riders desire the stability of a stiff boot.  

Water proofing. Your boots should come water proof, but depending on their quality, that may dissipate over time. Should this happen, try out Nix Wax or Scotch guard.  

Top or shin strap?  Shin straps are mostly used by all mountain riders who desire the extra response and stiffness.
   
Notes for step-ins.  Depending on the system, some step-ins include the high back and ankle strap right in the boot. Make sure the internal high back is adjustable and the ankle strap is comfortable, supportive, and easy to adjust.