Ideal for long days on the mountain the skate-inspired Vans' Encore snowboard boot has a new Trifit Asym-X thermal liner and a new TPU tongue cable protector this season. Besides improving overall insulation the Trifit Asym-X thermal liner offers better heel-hold technology for performance and a warm seam-brushed fleece upper cuff. One of the best features on the Encore--the dialed-in BOA closure system--remains exactly the same. The BOA closure allows for simple and easy entries and exits while the rotating dial tweaks your fit with almost near-infinite settings. The Encore also features the Vans Pro-Flex Snowaffle sole a progressive-flex inverted waffle tread that borrows the look of the classic Vans waffle sole without giving winter traction performance the slip. Because the boot sole decreases in stiffness as you move from heel to toe you enjoy better turning response without sacrificing the flex and feel at your toes. The low-profile die-cut EVA midsole gives you great cushioning with metatarsal and heel impact pads but doesn't sacrifice the skate look (just remember that this boot doesn't have the air sole--that's something aggressive riders want after taking massive air). The middle-of-the-pipe flex rating makes the Encore a great choice for freeriders and freestyle enthusiasts who want don't want too much flex or rock-solid stiffness.