• PRICE: £400, $450
• SIZES: UK
• FLEX: 6/10
• LACING SYSTEM: Dual Boa
• BUY DIRECT FROM SURFDOME

The Acerra 3ST ADV boots are the most premium offering in Adidas’ line. Yes, they may come in at a similar price to your snowboard. No, that’s not as crazy as you think it is. Why? Because your snowboard isn’t custom moulded to the shape of your feet. Because your snowboard isn’t where the majority of your control is coming from. And because these are right up there as the most advanced snowboard boots on the market.

They have a 6/10 flex rating on Adidas’ scale, which is also as high as any boot in their line goes. It’s also the same rating as the Tactical Lexicon ADV and Response 3MC ADV. For those who’ve ridden different brands before Adidas, this is more likely to feel like a seven or even an eight but, with the Dual H3 Boa fastening system, it’s possible to dial in a softer flex on the boot’s upper and still keep the ankle securely locked in.

“The shell is also constructed slightly higher than regular, providing support further up the leg – something that’ll not only suit the taller guys but those who want increased support for more aggressive riding”

Internally, the liner has an ankle harness with speed lacing which fastens you into the Gold Level Ultralon Liner. The heat moulding properties of this liner are among the best out there, conforming closely to the shape of your feet to eliminate any hot spots and pressure points, while still providing a snug-fitting liner that increases the boot’s response.

Combined with the Accerra’s articulated cuff and 3D moulded tongue in the shell, the boots maintain a consistent flex that doesn’t blow out or lose its shape over time. The shell is also constructed slightly higher than regular, providing support further up the leg – something that’ll not only suit the taller guys, but those who want increased support for more aggressive riding.

And it wouldn’t be a top-shelf offering from Adidas without the Boost Midsole underfoot. Despite the polystyrene look of them, they provide impressive durability and, more importantly, crazy levels of dampening and impact support. Whether it’s flat landing in the park or mach-ten straight-lining out the bottom of a couloir, the Accera’s keep your feet (and joints) well protected from the constant abuse of a hard day’s riding.