Review: Burton Swath BOA Snowboard Boots · 2024

Published on 04/08/2024 · 3 min readCurated Expert, Clint Hobbs, has tested this product to give you their unbiased, definitive take.
Clint Hobbs, Snowboarding Expert
Cashon Bramlett, Snowboarding Expert
By Curated Experts Clint Hobbs and Cashon Bramlett
10 photos
Photo by Clint Hobbs & Cashon Bramlett

The Curated Take

4.6/5

The Burton Swath BOA Snowboard Boots are ideal for riders who value a lightweight, versatile boot with a comfortably stiff flex. They are equipped with a BOA lacing system for a perfect fit and a heat-moldable liner for supreme comfort and minimal pressure points. Although these boots may feel stiffer than usual and require some getting used to, they excel in all terrains, from park to powder. Their durability, however, may not be the strongest. These boots are best suited for advanced riders who want a blend of freestyle performance and all-mountain capability, offering a comfortable yet responsive ride.

Ideal for
  • Comfortably stiff boot for any and all terrain
  • BOA lacing system helps find the ideal fit
  • Heat-moldable liner ensures supreme comfort and minimal pressure points
Not ideal for
  • Stiffer than normal and takes a little getting used to
  • Long term durability isn't the best
Heel Hold
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Dual Zone BOA system lets one independently micro-adjust the fit and feel of the upper and lower for just the right fit and feel. The heat-moldable liner helps to...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath boots are designed to give exceptional heel grip, offering a stable and responsive fit for optimal control while snowboarding. These boots use Burton's Focus BOA technology, which...Read more
Weight
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Ultra-Weave shell provides uniformity amongst layers and helps to mitigate excess material. This creates a naturally light platform that enhances the connection between rider and board. The weight savings...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA stands out as an exceptionally lightweight snowboard boot without compromising on technical performance. Originally designed as a freestyle boot, it remains true to its roots by...Read more
Comfort
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Imprint 3 heat-moldable liner is Burton's most comfortable liner ever. It provides maximum fit using a hook and loop system and has built-in moisture management. Once I heat molded...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The BOA Coiler system allows for quick and easy tightening, resulting in a bespoke fit that fits my foot perfectly without any pressure areas. Walking around in these boots, I...Read more
Grip
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The DynoBITE outsole from Burton uses 10%-15 % recycled rubber and has a grip designed by snowboarders for snowboarders. Strategically placed rubber patches in the toe and heel area mitigate...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA boots have a gripping outsole that delivers dependable traction on snow and ice, offering a stable and confident grip when traversing different terrain. The outsole is...Read more
Waterproofing
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Ultra-Wave shell on the Swath boot is very functional when it comes to keeping water out. The uniformity amongst the material allows Burton to maximize water repellency throughout the...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA boots have a water-resistant design that keeps feet dry and comfy on snowboarding adventures. While not completely waterproof, these boots are made with materials and technology...Read more
Shock Absorption
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The DynoBITE outsole is a little stiffer than some other outsoles. This is because the Swath is designed to be lightweight, so heavy dampening materials were slightly sacrificed. The cushioned...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA boots are meticulously crafted as freestyle boots, prioritizing flexibility and responsiveness for dynamic snowboarding performance. Equipped with shock-absorbing properties, they provide enhanced comfort and stability on...Read more
Versatility
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Swath is a powerhouse when it comes to versatility. It is packed with features such as an independently articulating cuff, an inner cuff designed to ride slightly higher for...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA boots offer impressive versatility, catering to a wide range of snowboarding styles and terrain. Their medium flex strikes a balance between responsiveness and forgiveness, making them...Read more
Durability
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The Ultra-Weave shell that wraps around the exterior of the Swath is somewhat impervious to wear. After about 20 days on these boots, they still look just the same as...Read more
Ease of Use
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The BOA system is the most intuitive lacing system out there. The Imprint 3 insole features a simple hook-and-loop system, while the Inner Focus Cuff is a simple pull-and-cinch system....Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The Burton Swath BOA boots are incredibly easy to use due to the BOA Coiler system, allowing quick and hassle-free tightening. I can get a customized fit that hugs my...Read more
Responsiveness
Clint Hobbs, Curated Expert
The inner Focus Cuff felt like I was lacing my feet into ankle braces that were sewn to the inside of the boot. These cuffs provide a great starting point...Read more
Cashon Bramlett, Curated Expert
The responsiveness of these boots is impressive, offering a balanced blend of flexibility and control. The medium flex provides just the right amount of responsiveness for quick turns and maneuvers...Read more

Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
About the snowboard boots
  • Model: Burton Swath BOA Snowboard Boots · 2024
Test conditions
  • When I used these: 12/4 - 12/6
  • Where I’ve used them: Copper, CO; glades; groomers; park; powder
  • How many times I've used it: 3

Expert Reviews of the Burton Swath BOA Snowboard Boots

 The Swath BOA boot from Burton is unique because it rides like an all-mountain boot but has performance like a freestyle boot. The Swath has a medium-stiff flex, stiffer than most other boots on the market. This took a little getting used to for me, especially when I was landing bigger airs. The BOA lacing system allowed me to dial the boot in click by click and find the perfect fit. This made me feel confident in my foot security, and I felt encouraged to push the boot further. This boot did a great job handling anything I threw at it—from switch maneuvers in the park to tight tree runs and even mellow groomers. This boot performed well and provided ample comfort throughout the whole day. The Swath is a great lightweight option from Burton for those who want a BOA boot that is comfortable and stiffer than the other options on the market.
 As someone who owns the Burton Swath boots, I can state that they provide an excellent balance of comfort, performance, and adaptability on the mountain. The Imprint 3 Liner and Speed Zone Lacing System ensure a tailored and comfortable fit. The medium to stiff flex rating provides a combination of support and flexibility, making them suited for a variety of riding styles and terrains. The boots provide exceptional heel grip owing to integrated J-bars and supportive sole construction. However, possible disadvantages include long-term durability. Designed as a freestyle boot, they are stiff enough to be taken all over the mountain. Overall, Burton Swath boots provide a responsive ride that I've found both pleasurable and dependable for all-mountain adventures. 

Product Specs

Age GroupAdult
GenderMen's
Model year2024
FlexMedium
Lacing systemBoa®
Internal lacing systemNone

Review Ratings

Averaged between reviewers, view below how all experts voted.

Heel Hold

4/5
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Dual Zone BOA system lets one independently micro-adjust the fit and feel of the upper and lower for just the right fit and feel. The heat-moldable liner helps to eliminate hot spots and ensures a uniform fit throughout. These two features help to ensure maximum heel hold in any condition.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath boots are designed to give exceptional heel grip, offering a stable and responsive fit for optimal control while snowboarding. These boots use Burton's Focus BOA technology, which allows riders to separately control the tightness of the top and bottom zones of the boot via a dual BOA closure system. This precise customization ensures a snug fit around the heel and ankle, effectively minimizing heel lift and preventing any unwanted movement within the boot. The Swath boots also come with Burton's Imprint 3 liner, which includes integrated heel-hold technology that locks the heel in place for more stability and control during hard riding.

Weight

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The Ultra-Weave shell provides uniformity amongst layers and helps to mitigate excess material. This creates a naturally light platform that enhances the connection between rider and board. The weight savings are apparent in quick turning situations such as park and glades. The low weight provides comfort when strolling through the parking lot—or up to the bar for a favorite beer.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA stands out as an exceptionally lightweight snowboard boot without compromising on technical performance. Originally designed as a freestyle boot, it remains true to its roots by maintaining its featherweight construction while elevating its versatility with enhanced all-mountain capabilities. This made it an ideal choice for the ripper who wants an extremely light boot.

Comfort

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The Imprint 3 heat-moldable liner is Burton's most comfortable liner ever. It provides maximum fit using a hook and loop system and has built-in moisture management. Once I heat molded these boots, they felt like I had put on slippers, and I felt like every inch of my foot/ankle was supported.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The BOA Coiler system allows for quick and easy tightening, resulting in a bespoke fit that fits my foot perfectly without any pressure areas. Walking around in these boots, I can feel the support they provide owing to their medium flex, which hits the ideal combination of responsiveness and forgiving. Whether cruising groomers or tackling backcountry routes, the Swath BOA boots offer the versatility and performance I want. Inside, the heat-moldable lining molds to the curve of my foot, increasing comfort and lowering the possibility of foot weariness during long days on the mountain. The liner's breathability keeps my feet dry and comfy even on the steepest slopes.

Grip

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The DynoBITE outsole from Burton uses 10%-15 % recycled rubber and has a grip designed by snowboarders for snowboarders. Strategically placed rubber patches in the toe and heel area mitigate slipping. These outsoles make a big difference when one-footing and practically eliminate the need for a stomp pad.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA boots have a gripping outsole that delivers dependable traction on snow and ice, offering a stable and confident grip when traversing different terrain. The outsole is often comprised of a tough rubber compound with lugs or tread patterns designed to improve grip and stability. The Swath BOA boots have Burton's Shrinkage Footprint Reduction Technology, which minimizes the total footprint of the boot to eliminate toe and heel drag. This technology allows for a better connection with the snowboard, improving control and responsiveness when riding.

Waterproofing

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The Ultra-Wave shell on the Swath boot is very functional when it comes to keeping water out. The uniformity amongst the material allows Burton to maximize water repellency throughout the whole boot. When I first saw this boot, I thought it looked like it had the water repellency of a sock, but after three full days, the boot was dry inside and out.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA boots have a water-resistant design that keeps feet dry and comfy on snowboarding adventures. While not completely waterproof, these boots are made with materials and technology that give dependable protection against moisture from snow and slush. The boot's outer shell is made from robust, water-resistant materials that repel moisture, such as synthetic leather or textiles with waterproof coatings. The Swath BOA boots have additional waterproofing treatments or technologies, such as Burton's DRYRIDE membrane or snow-proof internal gusset structure, to protect against moisture.

Shock Absorption

4/5
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The DynoBITE outsole is a little stiffer than some other outsoles. This is because the Swath is designed to be lightweight, so heavy dampening materials were slightly sacrificed. The cushioned air pockets are wrapped in heat-reflective foil that ensures consistent dampening by separating the temperature variable from the cushioning equation. This is a smart design from Burton that really sets them apart from other companies.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA boots are meticulously crafted as freestyle boots, prioritizing flexibility and responsiveness for dynamic snowboarding performance. Equipped with shock-absorbing properties, they provide enhanced comfort and stability on various terrains. They have a BOA Coiler system for swift and precise adjustments, ensuring a personalized fit without pressure points. With a medium flex, they have the ideal balance between responsiveness and forgiveness, which is great for freestyle maneuvers and tackling diverse riding styles.

Versatility

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The Swath is a powerhouse when it comes to versatility. It is packed with features such as an independently articulating cuff, an inner cuff designed to ride slightly higher for increased response, 0 MM of heel rise, two independent BOA lacing zones, etc. The list goes on and on. The Swath is Burton's lightweight entry into the do-it-all, workhorse, boot category.
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA boots offer impressive versatility, catering to a wide range of snowboarding styles and terrain. Their medium flex strikes a balance between responsiveness and forgiveness, making them suitable for various riding conditions, from groomers to backcountry runs. Whether someone is into freestyle tricks, carving down slopes, or exploring off-piste terrain, these boots provide the performance they need.

Durability

4/5
 gave 4 of 5 stars. The Ultra-Weave shell that wraps around the exterior of the Swath is somewhat impervious to wear. After about 20 days on these boots, they still look just the same as they did on day one. The articulating cuff helps to ensure comfort but also helps to minimize shell distortion, which ensures the boot doesn't get flexed out.

Ease of Use

5/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The BOA system is the most intuitive lacing system out there. The Imprint 3 insole features a simple hook-and-loop system, while the Inner Focus Cuff is a simple pull-and-cinch system. The Swath boot is incredibly intuitive from tip to tail, and I found it to be an easy boot to dial in my fit on.
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The Burton Swath BOA boots are incredibly easy to use due to the BOA Coiler system, allowing quick and hassle-free tightening. I can get a customized fit that hugs my feet snugly with a few dial turns. The system is intuitive and straightforward, making it easy to adjust on the go without having to remove my gloves. Additionally, the heat-moldable liners enhance the overall ease of use by conforming to the shape of my feet, providing additional comfort and reducing the need for constant readjustment.

Responsiveness

4/5
 gave 5 of 5 stars. The inner Focus Cuff felt like I was lacing my feet into ankle braces that were sewn to the inside of the boot. These cuffs provide a great starting point for developing a stiffer boot around. The 0mm heel rise or EST outsole helps to lower one's center of gravity, which increases board feel and creates a more responsive feel.
 gave 3 of 5 stars. The responsiveness of these boots is impressive, offering a balanced blend of flexibility and control. The medium flex provides just the right amount of responsiveness for quick turns and maneuvers while maintaining a level of forgiveness for comfort. The BOA Coiler system allows for precise adjustments, ensuring a customized fit that further enhances responsiveness.

FAQs

What do you love about this product?

I love how lightweight the boot is. Compared to my other boots, I can always feel when I have my Swaths on my feet, because they feel like heavy socks. I also like the look — the weave is very durable and so unique looking.
I love the Burton Swath BOA boots for their blend of comfort, performance, and convenience. The BOA Coiler system makes adjusting the fit a breeze with just a quick twist, ensuring I can hit the slopes without any hassle. The medium flex provides the ideal balance between responsiveness and forgiveness, allowing me to tackle any terrain with confidence and control. Plus, the heat-moldable liners mold to my feet, offering personalized comfort and reducing fatigue during long days on the mountain. Overall, the Burton Swath BOA boots have everything I need for an excellent snowboarding experience.

What was your favorite moment with this gear?

I accidentally stumbled into testing these boots. I was on vacation in the mountains and had no gear on me when my friend called me up and asked if I wanted to go ride. He offered me an entire setup: gloves, jacket, pants, socks, helmet, goggles, boots, binding, board, etc. The rest was history, and I had a blast testing the new gear. The Swaths are an awesome boot, like a lighter version of the Photon.
One of my favorite moments with the Burton Swath BOA boots was when I effortlessly carved through fresh powder on a hike-up run. The boots provided the perfect blend of responsiveness and comfort, allowing me to maneuver through the untouched snow with ease.

Why did you choose this product?

I have ridden a lot of Photons from Burton and wanted to try their counterpart, the Swath.
My decision to go with the Burton Swath BOA boots was driven by their standout comfort, performance, and user-friendly design. Their medium flex offered just the right mix of responsiveness and forgiveness, making them adaptable for any snowboarding style or terrain. Plus, the heat-moldable liners provided personalized comfort, keeping me feeling fresh and ready for more. With their reputation for excellence and convenience, these boots were the clear winner for enhancing my snowboarding adventures.

What is the value for the money versus other options?

The Swath BOA is $400, which puts them at a great value. They are packed with features like reflective foil liners to retain heat, a heat-moldable liner, two-zone BOA lacing system, and a medium flex.
The Burton Swath BOA boots offer excellent value for money compared to other options on the market. While they may be priced slightly higher than some entry-level boots, their combination of comfort, performance, and convenience justifies the investment. The BOA Coiler system and heat-moldable liners provide a level of customization and comfort that cheaper boots often lack.

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Clint Hobbs
Snowboarding Expert
Cashon Bramlett
Snowboarding Expert
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