About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the snowboard boots, which I purchased with my own money in September of 2021.

My take

The Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots are great. They are lightweight, durable and offer a precise fit, which makes them ideal for advanced riders looking for maximum performance on the mountain. I rode the 2021 model but the 2022 model is identical.

About the boots I own

• Model: 2021 Salomon Trek S/Lab
• Size: 10.5 Men’s
• Lacing type: BOA

About me

• Height: 6’1”
• Weight: 175lbs
• Street shoe size: 11
• Foot shape: Regular
• Experience: 20 years of snowboarding

Test conditions

• When I bought these: September 2021
• Days tested: 70-80
• Board: 2018 Rossi XV Split
• Bindings: 2018 Union Expedition
• Where I’ve used it: Oregon, Montana, California
• Terrain: Powder, groomers, ice, glacier, steeps, cliffs, trees—all terrain.

How they perform

What I was looking for

I was looking for backcountry snowboard boots because I wanted a boot that could handle the rugged, ungroomed terrain of the backcountry. I needed something tough and durable yet still lightweight and responsive. I also wanted a boot with a good fit and support to help me navigate the backcountry's deep powder and varied terrain. Overall, I was looking for a boot that could handle the unique challenges of backcountry riding and help me push my limits on the mountain.

Why I chose this gear

After researching and trying on several different brands and models, I decided to buy the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots because they offer the best combination of features and performance for my needs. The boots are specifically designed for backcountry riding, with lightweight construction and a precise fit that allows maximum control and agility on the mountain. They also have a durable and supportive design, essential for tackling rough, ungroomed terrain. Overall, I felt that the Salomon Trek S/Lab boots would be the best choice for my backcountry riding style and needs. I considered the 32 Jones MTB, but after having durability issues with multiple pairs of 32 boots, I decided to go with Salomon.

What I love about them

• Size: The size is great. Anything from Salomon size 10.5 fits my foot like a glove.
• Comfort: I like the comfort of the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots because they have a snug, secure fit that feels great on my feet. The boots have a heat-moldable liner that conforms to the shape of my foot, providing a customized fit that feels comfortable and supportive all day long. The boots also have a soft flex that allows for natural movement and flexion, which helps reduce fatigue and keep my feet fresh even after long days on the mountain. Overall, I appreciate the comfort of these boots and how they support and protect my feet while I ride.
• Warmth: These are moderately warm. Great for the relatively warm maritime snowpack of the West Coast. The Treks could be a bit warmer if one plans to take them to more extreme climates. I spent a few sub-0 days in Montana, and my feet did get cold.
• Heel hold: The liner has optional plastic inserts that help grip and hold the heel in place.
• Shock absorption: These boots have a responsive flex and a dampening system that helps absorb the shock of riding, making them a great choice for advanced riders who want a smooth, stable ride. The boots also have a shock-absorbing footbed that helps cushion the impact of landing jumps and other high-impact moves, helping reduce fatigue and keep my feet feeling fresh even after long days on the mountain.
• Responsiveness: I really appreciate how responsive the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots are when I'm riding. The boots have a stiff flex that provides great support, allowing me to initiate turns easily and adjust my stance on the mountain. Overall, I feel like these boots are really responsive and help me get the most out of my riding.
• Grip: These have MTN GOAT soles, and it is aptly named. I can hike anywhere in these boots.
• Durability: I really appreciate how durable the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots are when I'm riding in the backcountry. The boots are made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rough and rugged terrain of the backcountry, and they have a tough and supportive design that helps to protect my feet from the elements. The boots also have a durable outsole that provides excellent traction and stability on various surfaces, making them a great choice for riders who want a boot that can handle the unique challenges of backcountry riding. Overall, I feel these boots are durable and will last for many seasons of backcountry riding.
• Weight: These are fairly light. Hopefully, as materials science advances, we will get boots that weigh nothing, but these are close enough for now.
• Versatility: I can ride every type of terrain with these boots.

Issues I’ve encountered

• Ease of use: The boot has too many features between the toe laces, upper BOA, strap, and heel cinch. It makes transitioning for splitboarders much more difficult when messing with the boots adds an extra five minutes.

Favorite moment with this gear

This past spring, I used my Treks to summit and ride off of Mt. Hood, and I have to say, they performed exceptionally well in this challenging environment. They performed great boot packing with crampons; riding the rough, ungroomed terrain; and navigating through deep powder.

As I made my way up the mountain, the boots provided excellent support and protection for my feet, helping me to maintain my balance and stability on the steep and icy terrain. The boots also kept my feet warm and dry, thanks to their heat-moldable liners and moisture-wicking insoles, which was a huge advantage in the harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.

Once I reached the summit, I could enjoy an incredible descent down the south face, largely thanks to the responsive and comfortable fit of the Salomon Treks. The boots provided excellent edge-to-edge control and allowed me to maneuver through the deep powder easily. They also absorbed the shock of kicking steps and other high-impact moves, helping to reduce fatigue and keep my feet feeling fresh even after a long day on the mountain.

Overall, I feel like the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots were an essential piece of gear for my summit of Mt. Hood, and I would highly recommend them to any advanced rider looking for a high-performance boot for backcountry riding.

Value for the money vs. other options

It is ultimately up to each boarder to decide if the Salomon Trek S/Lab snowboard boots are worth the money for their specific needs and budget. However, these boots are among the top-performing options for advanced riders looking for lightweight, precise-fitting boots for backcountry riding. In addition, the boots are made with high-quality materials and durable and supportive design, making them a solid investment for riders who plan to spend a lot of time on the mountain.

Additionally, the boots offer several advanced features, such as a heat-moldable liner and a shock-absorbing footbed, that help to enhance the comfort and performance of the boots. If someone is willing to invest in a high-quality boot to help them get the most out of their backcountry riding, then the Salomon Trek S/Lab boots could be worth the money.

The Salomon Trek’s may be expensive but compared to the 32 Jones MTB BOA, which retails for $700, they provide a stellar value.

Final verdict

The Salomon Trek S/Lab boots are an excellent choice for advanced riders looking for lightweight, precise-fitting boots for backcountry riding. These boots unlock the full potential of riders, allowing them to tackle the toughest and most challenging terrain with confidence and control. Whether navigating deep powder, carving through steep and icy terrain, or hitting big jumps and features, the Salomon Trek S/Lab boots will help one ride with precision, power, and style. I recommend these again to anyone who splitboards or spends time in aggressive terrain.