Groomers - Though it is rare a boot is designed for one sole terrain type, boots that are categorized for groomers are generally designed for more beginner to intermediate skiers. Boots in this category are generally a soft to medium flex with the exception of race ski boots which are generally stiffer. 

All Mountain - Most boots are classified as All Mountain. This category covers the widest range of volume, flex and performance. These boots are made to ski various types of terrain and surfaces. 

Freestyle - Freestyle boots are generally made to be light and nimble when performing tricks. This style of boot usually has a medium flex. 

Big Mountain/Powder - Boots for big mountain/powder skiing are stiffer in nature and provide a higher performance fit. Stiffness creates the support you need when skiing at high speeds or through rough, variable terrain.

Backcountry - Backcountry boots are built for skiing as well as touring uphill. They are built with lighter constructions and offer closure systems that are meant to reduce weight compared to an alpine ski boot. These boots generally feature a walk mode which allows the boot to flex backwards, creating a more natural stride pattern when skinning uphill. A majority of backcountry boots also feature tech inserts in the toe and heel of the boot to accommodate a pin style binding. 

Beginner - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for the beginner skier or boarder are built to be more forgiving and easier to handle on the slopes. Skis and Boards are typically built with foam or wood cores that are more flexible and have shorter radii, making them less challenging to turn. Bindings are generally more pliable than models built for more advanced skiers or boarders. 

Intermediate - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for intermediate skiers or boarders generally provide more stability and performance than beginner focused equipment. Skis and Boards generally have medium radiuses with better handling at higher speed while still being forgiving at slower speeds. 

Advanced - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for advanced skiers or boarders generally provide a stiffer, higher performance ride that is better suited for steeper terrain and higher speeds. Skis and Boards generally have medium to large radii. Bindings are generally more rigid and provide better power transfer. 

Expert - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for expert skiers or boarders are built to provide the highest level of precision and power. Skis and Boards are generally on the stiffer side requiring more effort and technique to turn effectively. 

Walk modes are generally found on all touring boots and some inbounds alpine boots. Walk mode can be advantageous to both a resort skier looking for comfort and a backcountry skier looking for increased range of motion and efficiency when skinning uphill. A walk mode device allows the user to free the cuff of the boot to flex both forward and backward, allowing for a more natural stride. 

Some boots feature replaceable soles in the form of plastic plates that screw on and off the sole of the boot. Replaceable soles prolong the life of the boots once they’ve experienced lots of wear from walking on non-snow surfaces.