Shell

Simplicity is the watchword here; the Salomon Scarlet eschews any multi-stage shell system or cutaways in favour of a predictable, reliable flex. It’s easy to get a feel for these on day one, and they won’t go changing until you’ve put a serious amount of laps in.

This offers a softer flex on the whole, making it easy to manipulate at low speeds and in those first sessions where every subtle movement counts. That’s crucial; with stiff boots you’ll find that bending through the knee and ankle has little effect, leading you to instinctively lurch your upper body weight forwards over your toe edge and hope for the best. Avoid that feeling at all costs; it’s usually followed by a different, more painful one.

Complimenting the shell’s easy-going flex is a low-profile, skate inspired EVA sole that offers plenty of boardfeel without too much expensive cushioning. Were you to jump out of an Alaskan heli, that might pose a problem – but the Salomon Scarlet’s sole is tailor-made for resort riding, and the solid tread ensures you won’t come a cropper on your way back to your digs.

“The Salomon Scarlet’s sole is tailor-made for resort riding”

Liner

Yes, the Salomon Scarlet features the brand’s most basic liner tech, but even this is pretty sweet – especially if you’re likely to spend most of your time cruising in the resort. The Ultralon foam hugs your feet like a glove, and feels even better if you opt to have your liners heat-moulded. In areas prone to high pressure, such as the shin and the ankle, the density of the foam has been tweaked to account for that, and keep your feet happier for longer.

The whole thing is kept secure with a simple speed-lace that’s ready to go after one quick pull. As with all Salomon boots, even as you go up in half-sizes, the liner and shell are unique to that size, so you’re guaranteed a great fit.

“The Salomon Scarlet features the brand’s most basic liner tech, but even this is pretty sweet”

Roundup

There are so many great endemic brands in snowboarding, but for progression tools it’s often wise to turn towards the behemoths. Salomon understands footwear, and has the resources to truly cater for all aspects of the market.

If you’re buying your first pair of boots, the no-nonsense Salomon Scarlet will help you negotiate the early stages with aplomb. At the same time, enough care and attention has been put into its construction to ensure that it’ll have your back as you start to raise your game and rack up those red letter days.

Pros:

• Convenient and comfortable, they are the perfect chaperone for your first foray into snowboarding
• When you’re up to speed on the piste, the flex and boardfeel help you progress straight to freestyle

Cons:

• Experienced riders will want a bit more support than what these offer
• The single secure point for the lace (or Boa) sacrifices customisation for convenience

“Comfort and convenience in a softer profile boot, Light weight and durable this boot inspires confidence thanks to the new Sneaker inspired D lite Sole. And the H4 TX3 Boa system.”