Please join us in welcoming Jess Kimura to the Union Boot Division. A true pioneer and advocate for women's snowboarding, Jess has built a legendary career through groundbreaking video parts and a commitment to pushing snowboarding forward. We're excited to join Jess in the next chapter of her journey as she continues building her legacy with us.

Jess Kimura interview by Riley Goodwin

Photos: Liam Macdonald

You’ve been riding the same snowboard boots for a long time — what made you finally try something new?

Since the Nike program ended I’ve tried a bunch of different options for boots, but nothing ever felt right. So after my stash ran out, I was buying deadstock boots off eBay or FB marketplace. They are getting harder and harder to find so I knew I needed to find something new.

What was your first impression when you put on the Union boots?

I loved how they were low profile like my old boots. My feet aren’t that big so the super boxy boots I find on the market today don’t move or flex how I would like them to, and I feel like it gets worse the more they scale down in size, like all the bulk just compresses instead of going down in scale across the whole boot.

As someone who’s dealt with ankle issues, what do you look for most in a snowboard boot?

I’m looking for something that is supportive but still lets the foot and leg muscles move naturally. If things are too stiff or restrictive in one place but not another, it makes my feet and ankles get tired and sore more quickly. The other thing is durability. Most people I know go through a couple of pairs of boots in one season. I don’t want to have to be constantly breaking in new boots. I would love to actually ride the same pair of boots for more than one season if possible.

How did the Reset and Reset Pro compare to other boots you’ve tried over the years?

They just felt right, out of the box, which is always the hardest part with new boots…breaking them in. Whenever I would try something else, I would get spooked by how awkward or painful they felt.

What stood out to you most about the fit and feel?

They just felt like they blended immediately with my setup.

How important is comfort and fit for the way you ride today?

Super important because I don’t have a lot of time to troubleshoot or mess around when we are on a project or a trip. And the few days I do get to ride “just for fun” I don’t want to be in pain or annoyed at how my feet are feeling.

Was there a specific moment while testing the boots where you realized they were working for you?

Yeah, when I would naturally end up leaving them on all the way til I got home, driving in them, going for dinner in them, when everyone else would be dying to get out of their boots as soon as they got off the snow.

What makes a snowboard boot feel “right” to you?

Supportive but not restrictive.

How does having confidence in your boots affect your riding?

It’s literally the interface between my body and my board so it’s really important for trust and confidence.

What excites you about working with Union Boot Division?

Being able to contribute to creating something that I already wished would exist. And the dedication and commitment from the brand to making the best boots out there, compared to prioritizing profits and margins at the expense of quality and innovation.

How important is it for riders — especially women— to have more input into product development?

It’s definitely important and something that is lacking over the years. And if I get a voice, I want to use it to incorporate and pass on feedback from the network of girls around me too. And of course, I’d love to work closely with them to develop a women’s specific boot!