These features make it easier to lead with either foot, one of the reasons these snowboards are ideal for trick riding. Racing boards are designed mostly for speed and fast turning. These resemble skis in that they have a flat tail, are built stiff, have a narrower body, and feature sidecuts for carving. This board type is more suited to the intermediate or advanced user. The two categories are soft boots and hard boots.
Most people use soft boots.
Hard boots are preferred for racing. The differences in design are based on the boot's use. Free Riders need foot and ankle support but not as much as Free Stylers. What's needed for speed are stiff boots that provide the control needed. Remember to try on boots with the socks you'll board in.