If you’re a snowboarder looking for an easy and fast way to attach boots to your bindings, you’ve likely coveted Burton’s Step On system. With the Felix Step On Boots you can strap in as you ride away from the lift, eliminating bending over or sitting down.
The Burton Felix Step On boots are convenient, perform exceptionally, and are compatible with Burton Step On bindings. These stiffer women’s snowboard boots go above expectations in comfort and warmth. The Felix Step Ons cater to intermediate to expert riders.
A few things were revealed after riding strapped in with the Burton Felix snowboard boots and then stepping on with the Burton Felix Step On boots. We knew the Step Ons would perform well, but let’s Slope Magazine to see what we discovered about these snowboard boots.
Things we like:
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Stiff, reliable boots that are comfortable right out of the box
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The Felix Step Ons can take you competently all over the mountain, with super response
-
It is super easy and intuitive to use the boot and binding and takes away the need to bend over or sit down to strap in
-
Secure boot and binding connection; just listen for the three clicks, and you’re good to go
-
The Felix snowboard boots are warm all day, with moisture-wicking technology
-
The added Snugger Strap with a BOA increases the performance
-
Burton has online boot rentals, so you can try before you buy
Things we don't like:
-
Expensive snowboard boot
-
Not the best choice for beginners
-
There is a slight clicking noise/sensation that occurs during popping movements like ollies from the Step On system
-
After each session, the BOA screw might need routine tightening
- Boot Type: All Mountain
- Skill Level: Intermediate-Expert
- Flex Rating: 7/10, Medium to Stiff
- Lacing Style: Dual-Zone BOAⓇ with Coiler Technology
- Outsole: VibramⓇ Traction Lug with EcoStep
Unmatched Comfort: The Step On Boot
The Felix Step On boots are so comfortable and keep your feet warm all day. Burton has years of experience in boot production. With recent technology, they have outdone themselves by offering a lineup of the most comfortable boots on the market, with the Felix’s on the frontline.
These women’s snowboard boots feature Total Comfort Construction, which provides immediate comfort straight out of the box. Breaking in the Felix’s isn’t something you need to dread because you don’t need to do it.
The Imprint 3 heat-moldable liner makes the Felix Step On’s that much more comfortable. This liner features a hook-and-loop closure to secure your foot in the liner. Make sure NOT to sinch it too tight. You can naturally mold your feet into the liner by wearing them. But if you are experiencing pain or hot spots, the liner is heat-moldable, which can be done at home or the ski shop.
The PowerUp Tongue sits between the liner and the boot. The tongue helps you adjust the flex and does not need to be readjusted while riding due to the snug fit. So, it helps keep your boots fitting comfortably throughout the day.
For warmth, the Felix Step On boots come with an insulation system that recycles heat. Called DryRide, it’s a proprietary lining that increases circulation, captures, radiates, and reflects body heat inward to keep feet warmer while wicking moisture.
Elite Performance
The Burton Felix Step On boots have a medium to stiff flex with tons of built-in response. Overall, the performance is top-notch. Due to the stiffness and responsiveness, we recommend the Felix Step On’s to intermediate riders and above.
These women’s snowboard boots feature a Dual-Zone BOA® Fit System with Coiler™ technology. This lacing system has two separate lace zones that are adjusted independently. Simply twist the BOA dial and customize the upper and lower lace zones to match your foot perfectly. This system is great to adjust throughout the day.
Burton uses women ‘s-specific True Fit in the Felix Step On boots. This women’s design caters to a lower-volume foot. Better-fitting boots result in better control and board feel, not to mention increased comfort.
The Burton Felix Step On boots feature a Snugger Strap, an added strap with a BOA dial. The Snugger Strap allows for forward flex stiffness and heel hold adjustments. This strap changes the response and playfulness of the Felix Step On boots. The BOA heel strap emulates a heel strap of traditional binding, except the Snugger Strap adjusts the actual snowboard boot.
The Imprint 3 liner has a hook-and-loop closure system with an inner lace lock. This added lacing system creates a snug boot fit. The liner meshing with your foot adds response without adding weight.
Burton’s EST® midsole optimizes performance. It lowers your center of gravity due to its low profile. The EST midsole improves board feel without sacrificing comfort.
The Felix Step On outsole is made of Vibram® Traction Lug with EcoStep material. The Traction Lug is an innovative outsole design to maximize traction. On another good note, the Vibram® sole is made with EcoStep, which is recycled rubber.
Something interesting I observed about the performance of the Step On system is there is no sliding sensation of the boot in the binding. Sliding is used when popping ollies, buttering, or jibbing. This locked-in system limits the playfulness of the Felix Step On boots. However, it increases security and power.
Another thing observed about the performance of the Step On system is it feels similar to ski boots and bindings. Instead of having two individual components moving, the Step On system creates a consolidatory connection between the boot and binding. This connection limits board sensativity but provides control and strength.
When ollie-ing in the Felix Step On snowboard boots, the sensations feel different than strap-in bindings due to the Step Ons united connection of the boots and bindings
Ideal Terrain, Conditions, and Riding Style
These women’s snowboard boots can confidently bring you all over the mountain. Shredding from the peak to the park is a joy. The Felix Step On boots rip groomers, off-piste, moguls, powder, steeps, and trees.
For this review, a lot of testing of the Felix happened at Mammoth, riding early snow on the Feelgood. The experience demonstrated how well these step-ons acquitted themselves.
When your friends complain about chattery and icy conditions, you won’t know what they are talking about. The Felix Step On boots and binding combo slash through all conditions. Feel confident in handling any conditions with these snowboard boots.
The terrain type left out of the “ideal zone” was the terrain park. The park is left out because the Felix Step On’s are stiff, leading to limited room for error on big airs and jibs. The stiffer flex makes the Felix’s not ideal for beginner/intermediate park riders.
The Felix Step On boots can be loosened up a little bit and play in the park
Ripping aggressively is no problem with this stiff, responsive boot, but riding steezy is also possible. If you love to carve deep, you’ll love this stiffer set-up. If twisting through moguls is your passion, the responsiveness will get you giddy. Any riding style will thrive on the Burton Step On boots.
To those who prefer to strap in, check out our 11 Best Snowboard Bindings to find your next setup.
Binding & Boot Compatibility
The women’s Burton Felix Step On Snowboard boots are only compatible with Burton’s patented Step On bindings. There are a few women’s Burton Step On bindings to choose from, along with other companies producing bindings with Burton Step On technology.
The women’s Step On Re:Flex bindings are a good choice for the all-mountain rider who cruises and charges in the same lap. These are stiffer snowboard bindings, with more response than play. It is the most affordable Step On binding in the Burton lineup.
The women’s Step On Escapade Re:Flex bindings are another binding choice to pair the Burton Felix Step On boots with. The Escapade bindings are meant to provide high-end performance with extreme versatility. These bindings have medium flex to support a playful riding style.
Newly released, Burton provides the option to have women’s Step On Splitboard bindings that are compatible with the Felix Step On boots. The Burton Step On Splitboard bindings bring ease to backcountrying. The boots and binding have a secure connection that reduces boot wear and improves stride efficiency.
If you are an all-mountain rider looking to charge fresh lines with the most responsive binding out there, we may have found it. The women’s Step On X Re:Flex bindings offer pro-caliber control. They have carbon-blend hi-backs and are some of the lightest, simplest bindings available.
Regardless of your Step On binding choice, the Burton Felix Step Ons will offer effortless response, thanks to their impressive technology, like the Snugger Strap, which adjusts flex
All of the Burton bindings have a Re:Flex baseplate, which has a universal mounting pattern. This means the Burton Step On bindings are compatible with any snowboard with a 4×4, 4×2, or Channel mounting system. It is necessary to purchase a separate disc for 3D mounting systems.
How to Find Your Size, Set Up, and Use Step Ons
The Burton Felix Step On snowboard boots run true to size. The Felix boots are offered in U.S. women’s sizes 5 to 10. There is a wider version of the Felix boot provided by Burton.
When deciding whether your Burton Step On boots fit, there are a few things to consider. Mainly the position of your toes. If your toes lightly graze the front of the boot, they fit. If your toes don’t touch, they are too big; if they are smashed, they are too small.
When considering the width fit, some things can be done. If your feet are squished from the sides, but your toes fit, the best option is to get your local boot fitter to widen the boots.
How to Install Burton Step On Bindings
Attaching the Burton Step On bindings is easy. Burton has invented the Channel mounting system that they claim to be easier to set up than 4×4 or 4×2 mounting systems, and we agree. The Channel mounting system lets users stand on the board and slide the bindings around to find their perfect stance distance. Then screw down two screws in each binding, and you’re good to go.
Before stepping in, let’s do a boot check- there should be NO balled-up fabric around your ankles, like extra legging material, when sliding your foot in. Then comfortably sinch your inside liner. Next, make sure the tongue is lined up properly before twisting the BOAs. Tighten the BOAs until your foot feels secure, but not too tight because it can cause cramps.
Simply step onto the Step On bindings with Burton Step On boots while riding away from the lift
How To Strap Into Step Ons
Using the Burton Felix Step On system is intuitive. I practiced using the system inside for about 2 minutes before going out. It is best to be on flat ground when stepping on. Simply open the highback, come directly from above, aim your heel cleat at the heel clip, and step on and engage the toe cleats. Once you hear the three clicks (two clicks on either side of the toes and a click for the heel), you’re all set.
It is simple to unclick from the Burton Step On binding. A small lever on the outside of each binding needs to be pulled up while you also pull your foot out of the binding. It is easy to pull the lever up while wearing gloves.
Step On Snowboard Boot Comparisons
There is an ongoing conversation in the snowboarding community concerning the BOA and traditional lacing system; both have pros and cons.
In short, the pros of the BOA system are that it is effortless and quick to get laces tight or undo them. Making micro-adjustments throughout the day, even while wearing gloves, can be done. The pros of the lace-up system are they are less prone to pressure points and maintain their tension throughout the day.
The cons of the BOA system is they are more expensive, expensive to repair, and can unclick and loosen throughout the day. The cons of traditional lacing are that it can be challenging to get the boots tight and nearly impossible to do with gloves.
It seems most Step On snowboard boots have BOA lacing systems. The main distinction between Step On boot models is their flex, riding style, and targeted terrain. With the Burton Step On’s popularity, other brands like Nitro and DC have made compatible boots with the Burton Step On bindings.
The Burton Limelight Step On boot has a single BOA and does not feature the BOA Snugger Strap that brings extra heel security, responsiveness, and stiffness to the Felix Step On boots. They have a softer flex than the Felix Step On boot; they are better for beginner riders. The Limelight is the more affordable option of the two.
The Burton Ritual LTD Step On boots boots are another women’s Step On snowboard boot option. With a medium flex, these boots are fantastic for freeriding. They are roughly the same price as the Felix snowboard boots.
The Burton Felix Step On also comes in a soft version. The Felix Step On Soft snowboard boots are good for beginner riders due to easier turn initiation with a softer flex.
The Nitro Dynasty BOA Step On snowboard boots have a double BOA lacing system. The boots have a medium-stiff. These high-end all-mountain snowboard boots are similar to the Burton Felix boots but are the more expensive option.
The Nitro Cave TLS Step On snowboard boots are comfortable and have fantastic shock absorption. They have a medium flex and double BOA lacing system. The traction is rated top-notch. These boots are very similar to the Burton Felix Step On boots.
The DC Lotus Step On snowboard boots have a soft flex and are great for beginners. They feature a double BOA system, good for micro-adjustments and all-day comfort. These are less expensive than the Felix boots.
We Recommend the Felix Step On Boots
Overall, the Burton Felix Step On boots go above our initial expectations. The snowboard boots are immediately comfortable, with impact absorption to keep your feet fresh. The BOA system with the added Snugger Strap keeps users’ feet locked in, with the ability to adjust flex.
These boots are perfect for the all-day hot-lap shredders. The Felix Step On boots bring power, precision, and successful performance. The Step On system strays slightly from the traditional strap-in binding feel. However, the newfound responsiveness adds tremendous value.
Besides minor drawbacks like lack of board feel and a high price, we recommend the Burton Felix Step On boots. Performance was responsive, powerful, and secure.
And if you are still debating these snowboard boots, check out Burton’s rental program to try before you buy.
Things we like:
-
Stiff, reliable boots that are comfortable right out of the box
-
The Felix Step Ons can take you competently all over the mountain, with super response
-
It is super easy and intuitive to use the boot and binding and takes away the need to bend over or sit down to strap in
-
Secure boot and binding connection; just listen for the three clicks, and you’re good to go
-
The Felix snowboard boots are warm all day, with moisture-wicking technology
-
The added Snugger Strap with a BOA increases the performance
-
Burton has online boot rentals, so you can try before you buy
Things we don't like:
-
Expensive snowboard boot
-
Not the best choice for beginners
-
There is a slight clicking noise/sensation that occurs during popping movements like ollies from the Step On system
-
After each session, the BOA screw might need routine tightening
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