• SIZES: UK 6-14
• FLEX: 6-9
• LACING SYSTEM: Double Boa
• PRICE: £379 / €419

Given the company’s considerable heritage in the skateboarding world, it’s perhaps surprising to see how heavily the Vans snowboard team leans towards freeriders more than park rats. Sure, you’ll see Sparrow Knox and Danimals among the ranks, but then there’s the likes of Wolle Nyvelt, Pat Moore, Jamie Lynn, Bryan Iguchi and Hana Beaman. All masters of freestyle, but usually found far from the shaped features.

Blake Paul also fits nicely into this category; he’s on a tear right now, riding as well as a Jackson Hole upbringing can deliver. Vans has recognised his efforts by giving him a pro-model boot – the Vans Verse.

“The new Vans Verse boots are built to handle blistering speeds across unpredictable terrain”

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If you’re still new to the game, then this isn’t the pair for you. The new Vans Verse snowboard boots are towards the stiffer end of the spectrum, built to handle blistering speeds across unpredictable terrain, with heavy landings to boot. You can ease off the flex of the tongue thanks to the two removable inserts, but rest assured that this will handle anything and everything, regardless of your ability level.

Need any more clues as to what these boots are designed for? Look no further than the waterproof covering on the front. This zippable layer protects the workings of the Boa lace from getting jammed up with ice and snow, which is the last thing you want while way out in the backcountry. There’s also a sturdy metal ring to which you can clip the boot gaiter on your pant legs. In short, you’ll be locked up like Fort Knox.