Choosing the right snowboard bindings can be a daunting task. There are so many different types of bindings to choose from, and it's hard to know which ones will work best for you.
If you're not sure what type of binding is best for your riding style, I've got some help for you! I'll walk through the pros and cons of each type of binding below.
These are good if you like to ride in the park or freestyle terrain where quick response time is key. They give more control over your board than other types of bindings because they don't require any adjustment once on your foot.
However, these bindings can be difficult to get into when you're wearing larger boots.
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These bindings are the lightest option available. They are simple to get into, lightweight, and give riders a huge range of motion.
These don't provide any ankle support, so they aren't recommended for riding in rough terrain or at high speeds. Many freeride or powder snowboarders choose these bindings because they offer good shock absorption.
These bindings have a few different strap options that allow you to customize your ride.
They give a bit more support than freestyle bindings and can be a good option for freeride terrain, where you don't need the quick response time of a high-end park binding.
These bindings provide a good mix of freestyle and all-mountain performance. They are lightweight, easy to get into, and provide enough support for riders doing jumps or riding groomers.
These aren't the best option if you want to ride powder (for that check out Burton's new Step On system), but they are a good middle ground for riders who have a mix of terrain on their local mountain.
With a stiffer flex, these bindings are a good choice for riders who spend more time on groomers or not in the park. With a higher level of support and a little extra weight, they can be great for long trips up the mountain.
These bindings aren't recommended if you like to ride with loose boots (for example with your snowboard boots worn with your ski boots) because it can be difficult to get them on.
If you do choose this type of binding, make sure they are compatible with your boot size and style.
This is a good choice for riders who want the convenience of strap-in bindings but need a little more support. They are easy to get into and give riders a good amount of control over their board.
There are two types of snowboarding bindings; strap-in bindings and rear-entry bindings.
If you choose a strap-in binding, your boot connects to the board with three or four straps that secure around your foot. The advantage of this type of binding is it is very easy to get into and out of while riding.
However, they are not the best choice for park riding. Because it is difficult to make strap-in bindings very flexible, you will not get as much performance out of them in the park.
If you choose a rear entry binding, your boot connects to the board with a clamp that secures around your heel and ankle, similar to a snowboard boot itself.
The advantage of this type of binding is it has the same flex as your snowboard, which allows you to get more out of your ride.
The downside is that they are not as easy to take on and off while riding (although some mechanisms allow you to do so).
Snowboard bindings have a few different components that you should be aware of.
Before purchasing new snowboard bindings, make sure they fit your boots. If the bindings are too big or too small for your boot, it can cause serious injury and even death.
Any binding that is too small will restrict the blood flow to your feet and cause you immense pain when riding. If you're not in unbearable pain, it's best to be safe and get a larger size.
If your bindings are too big, they could slip off mid-ride or even come off completely while you are riding.
Your bindings should fit your board like a glove. Your bindings should be the same size as the base of your snowboard, although some companies make wider bindings for wider boards.
When mounting your bindings to your snowboard, you want to make sure that they are straight or slightly angled toward the back of the snowboard. If you mount them facing to the front of your board, it could cause you to slide out while riding and result in terrible injury.
Channel system is a new mounting system for snowboards and snowboard bindings. Rather than having 4 screws per binding on each side of the board, there is one screw in the center of your board that secures each binding to your board.
The Channel System has two benefits: It allows you to get more performance out of your ride because the bindings are closer to the board, and it's easier to get your bindings off because there are no screws.
These bindings give you similar performance to rear entry bindings, but they are much easier and faster to get into.
One of the biggest selling points for this type of binding is that it has the same flex as your snowboard, allowing you to have more control over your stance while riding.
The downside is that they are only compatible with certain types of boards, so if you're planning on purchasing new boots or snowboards, you have to make sure that they are compatible.
Now that you know all about the channel system, it's time to learn how to mount them.
Before you begin, make sure your board is not in your stand and that your bindings are closed.
Then, put a screw into the hole in the middle of your snowboard. Make sure there is enough room on either side for your bindings and that it is secure.
Now, slide your binding onto the screw and align it to the board. Make sure you have around .5-1 inch of space on either side of your boot.
Many different companies use The Channel system today, but for the most part, it is predominantly burton bindings. Make sure you do your research when buying these bindings so that they will fit your board.
So, now that you know all about the Channel System and how to mount your bindings, get out there and have a great ride!
At last, a description for a snowboard binding. This article already assumes the reader knows all about "flex" ratings and other bindings, so if you need to know more about those you will have to read up on them elsewhere.