Shell & Outsole

The Burton Ruler’s outer shell has looked roughly the same for several years – and given that it’s sleek, lightweight and good at keeping moisture at bay, why rock the boat?

The whole thing is secured by Burton’s Speed Lace system, which has been around for almost as long as the Ruler itself. A quick pull on each of the handles – one for the lower-zone lace, one for the upper – and you’re good to go. Should you prefer a slightly looser feel, customising it is easily done. It also comes with a Boa system, if you prefer that.

Pop out the liner and look inside, and you’ll notice what looks like a layer of tinfoil. This isn’t a Blue Peter project gone wrong; Burton’s ‘Sleeping Bag’ reflective material reduces the amount of body heat escaping through the sole.

Under that is a shoe-like outsole, which doesn’t rise up at the back like those you find on many other boots. The result is better board feel, and a more freestyle-friendly setup. Half of the rubber is recycled, too.

“The Thinsulate insulation is great for protecting your toes from low temperatures”

Liner

A fancy exterior is all very well, but it’s in a liner that a boot really shows its worth. The one on the Burton Ruler is pleasingly low-profile and no-frills, yet far from basic.

The Thinsulate insulation is great for protecting your toes from low temperatures. If you can get to a shop with the right setup, the heat-mouldable material will ensure you get a great fit from day one – and even if you aren’t able to give it the treatment before heading to the mountain, over time it’ll conform to the shape of your feet.

There’s actually no lacing system on the liner itself. Instead, there’s a harness within the outer shell. The liner sits inside that, and when you tighten its front lace your ankle gets locked down (in a good way). In essence, it means you can say goodbye to heel lift, and also easily whip the liner out to dry it out and keep the boot-stink at bay.

“From its traction-packed sole to its fluffy peaks, the Burton Ruler really is the full package”

Roundup

From its traction-packed sole to its fluffy peaks, the Burton Ruler really is the full package. It’s a true all rounder that leaves the door open for spontaneity and creativity, presenting you with a truckload of options stretching out to the horizon every time you hit the mountain.

The 2023/24 edition is no revolution, but we reckon that this product of the 90s can bring some of that era’s optimism back to your riding.

Pros:

• Reputation, reputation, reputation; the pedigree of this one makes it a safer bet than the Harlem Globetrotters
• For quite a high-end product, it’s remarkably user-friendly

Cons:

• If you’re only an occasional dabbler in the park, it’s likely that there’s another all-rounder out there more suited to your style

Buy the Burton Ruler: £325 at Blue Tomato UK 

Buy the Burton Ruler: €360 at Blue Tomato EU