Types of snowboard bindings
Bindings keep our feet on the board. They ensure safety and comfort. If you've ridden before, you know how important stability and confidence in your equipment are when snowboarding. Bindings are often a less-than-ideal element, but it's worth choosing ones that will protect us and suit our riding style. In this article, we'll explore four types of snowboard bindings. They are divided into hard and soft. Soft bindings are definitely more popular. Which ones are perfect for you? Let's find out!
Hard bindings
Hard bindings are a go-to option for hardcore riders. If you're a beginner or intermediate rider, don't pay too much attention to them. Their construction is similar to ski bindings, and you'll also need special boots to use them. They're designed for professionals who enjoy fast skiing and sharp turns. They're made almost entirely of metal. You're unlikely to encounter them on a typical, amateur slope.
Strap-on bindings
These are by far the most popular bindings, and you're probably familiar with them. They consist of a fold-back highback and two adjustable straps that hold and secure the boot. One strap fastens at the front of the boot near the toes, while the other fastens directly at the ankle. They're soft and comfortable, and the most popular choice for most riders.
Step-in bindings
Step-in bindings are bindings that lock the boot into place with a clip using a special pin. They lack straps, which some riders say makes board feel a bit less comfortable. While not suitable for snowparks, they're great for fast, dynamic riding. They can be quickly clipped in without the need to sit on the slope and fiddle with straps and a pump, as with strap-on bindings.
Hybrid bonds
Also called FLOW bindings, these are still relatively new bindings that also require FLOW boots—others won't hold them as well. They have a significantly rearward-sloping highback, making them easy to step into without sitting down on the slope. Instead of two straps, they have a one-piece closure that simply adjusts to your foot once and doesn't require re-adjustment. However, they are slightly more expensive than standard strap-on bindings.
Do you ride fast? Try step-in or hybrid bindings. If you're not very dynamic and value comfort, go for strap-on bindings. Or maybe you're already at a stage where we can safely call you a pro? Are you planning a sports career with a snowboard at your side? Invest in hard bindings.
Hard bindings
Hard bindings are a go-to option for hardcore riders. If you're a beginner or intermediate rider, don't pay too much attention to them. Their construction is similar to ski bindings, and you'll also need special boots to use them. They're designed for professionals who enjoy fast skiing and sharp turns. They're made almost entirely of metal. You're unlikely to encounter them on a typical, amateur slope.
Strap-on bindings
These are by far the most popular bindings, and you're probably familiar with them. They consist of a fold-back highback and two adjustable straps that hold and secure the boot. One strap fastens at the front of the boot near the toes, while the other fastens directly at the ankle. They're soft and comfortable, and the most popular choice for most riders.
Step-in bindings
Step-in bindings are bindings that lock the boot into place with a clip using a special pin. They lack straps, which some riders say makes board feel a bit less comfortable. While not suitable for snowparks, they're great for fast, dynamic riding. They can be quickly clipped in without the need to sit on the slope and fiddle with straps and a pump, as with strap-on bindings.
Hybrid bonds
Also called FLOW bindings, these are still relatively new bindings that also require FLOW boots—others won't hold them as well. They have a significantly rearward-sloping highback, making them easy to step into without sitting down on the slope. Instead of two straps, they have a one-piece closure that simply adjusts to your foot once and doesn't require re-adjustment. However, they are slightly more expensive than standard strap-on bindings.
Do you ride fast? Try step-in or hybrid bindings. If you're not very dynamic and value comfort, go for strap-on bindings. Or maybe you're already at a stage where we can safely call you a pro? Are you planning a sports career with a snowboard at your side? Invest in hard bindings.
