How to Use Burton J-Bars to Reduce Snowboard Boot Heel Lift
This overview includes everything you need to know about Burton J-Bars, including an explanation of what they are, how they’re used, and how to install them in snowboard boots to reduce heel lift. Burton J-Bars can help riders with feet of all shapes and sizes achieve the perfect fit for maximum fun.
What are Burton J-Bars?
Burton J-Bars are small foam inserts that are specially designed to fit around the heel of the foot. They are shaped like—you guessed it—the letter “J” to improve the snugness of the boot around the heel area.
How are Burton J-Bars used?
Burton J-Bars feature a Velcro backing and are meant to be attached directly to the snowboard boot shell. Riders with smaller ankles will benefit from eliminating extra space between their heel and the liner, reducing heel lift and improving toeside edge response.
Burton J-Bar Compatibility
J-Bars are designed to be used in Burton snowboard boots that feature specific removable liners.
- Burton Imprint 3 Liner
- Burton Imprint 3x Liner
- Burton Life Liner
- Burton Life Plus Liner
Note that J-Bars are not compatible with Burton Imprint 1 liners and Burton Imprint 2 liners.
Do I need J-Bars?
Because every person’s foot is unique, boot fitting is always an adventure. But in general, if your heel comes off the footbed when you lean out over your toes, you will probably benefit from J-Bars. When in doubt, hit up the Burton Guides or drop into your local Burton store to chat with an experienced boot fitter.
How to Install Burton J-Bars
Installing Burton J-Bars is a quick and easy project that can have a huge impact on how your board rides. Follow these simple instructions to install J-Bars and reduce heel lift.
- Determine J-Bar compatibility. The type of liner should be printed somewhere along the top cuff.
- Remove the liner from the boot.
- Position one J-Bar on either side of the ankle and press it into place (there should be a patch of Velcro indicating the approximate position).
- Replace the liner into the boot, being careful not alter the placement of the J-Bars.
- Lace up your boot snugly and test the heel lift. Repeat the process above as necessary until you find the most comfortable fit.
- Go ride.
Where can I find Burton J-Bars?
J-Bars are not included with compatible snowboard boots and must be purchased separately. J-Bars are available in packs of four (two for each foot) in the Spare Parts & Accessories section of burton.com and at Burton flagship store locations.
