I've got a mate that rides LF cradles (velcro) and they are going strong after more 2 or 3 seasons. That's more than I can say for most boots.

In terms of durability in my experiences my LF watsons held up the longest (1.5 seasons kite, regular wakeboarding, odd cable session) and still in good usable condition, not as nice as when they were new but still going strong.

I just ordered a new pair of Hyperlite systems though and they are waiting for me as soon as I get back to Perth I'll let you know how they go.

In terms of velcro vs laces as rowdy said, laces are the way to go if you want good hold and a supportive boot. when looking go for something in the medium to med-high in stiffness, too stiff makes a board twitchy if you're not used to it and makes your legs cramp until your muscles build up. they soften up a bit after the first 2 or so months so dont buy something super flexy from the get go.

superlizard said..

velcro doesn't hold as tight as laces, but IMO it's easier to get off at the end of the session, or if you are in trouble and need to get them off quick. by the time you find the two hooks on each boot, and undo them and loosen up etc...

Hyperlites are even easier and quicker, picture getting off your snowboard . Velcro boots suck.

p.s. Not that that type of thing has ever been a problem for me in the last 10 or so years of riding boots... you should be pleased to know boots now are a million times easier to get out of than back then.

Well they are still going to work! Anything is better than nothing .
Put it this way, laces for me are far easier and better to use, some people like Velcro boots (maybe if you have a real wide foot and ankle or something) and they don't have a problem with them not being tight enough. I like my boots tight so Velcro just isn't an option.

Yep, rode ultra suctions for about 3 seasons, I can remember the first time I used them not being able to get out and freaking out about it.

Some good info lads, I tried on a pair of LF synergys today. rather happy with the amount of support.

I'm riding LF open toe velcro boots and find that its no problem at all, lots of support, fit well and are comfy. I'm no pro rider but I'd say get something comfy for your feet. If anything I find the velcro can be too tight but all feet are shaped different. One of the guys rides with laces and isnt a fan because the lace system has been replaced a couple of times. Just my 2c.

Anyone changed ronix one laces? I couldn't get the rope through the slider lock…
Does it come already assembled if you buy new ones?

Has anyone tried the LF ULTRA closed toe 2013?
Dual lacing system.

sir ROWDY said..

Some people like different levels of support. If you want lots of support laces really are the go, if you don't mind velcro will do.
Although laces may have to be replaced sometimes so does velcro, if you understand how velcro works you will understand why they need replacing. I've never had to replace the laces in my Hyperlites because you only get into the boots once each session.

Yeah, I understand how velcro works, my feet are a really weird shape so the velcro works for me. I have found that they need to be adjusted once after riding for about 30-45 mins then they are sweet (think it's from being wet and they are still moulding) but I can see the pro's and cons for each.

add in that I got them really cheap and I'm not complaining :)

sir ROWDY said..

Well they are still going to work! Anything is better than nothing .
Put it this way, laces for me are far easier and better to use, some people like Velcro boots (maybe if you have a real wide foot and ankle or something) and they don't have a problem with them not being tight enough. I like my boots tight so Velcro just isn't an option.

Don't worry mate its personal preference. i've been riding velcro boots for 6 years now. i was sick of snapping laces and personally found i got more support from velcro boots (Slingy KTV's and LF Vantages) because there is 3 "zones" where you can tighten them where laces only have two. haven't tried the hyperlites though.