At the Board Hoard we have written a short snowboard binding buyers guide to help you get the correct bindings for you.
Snowboard bindings are the link between your boots and your snowboard, transferring your movements to the board so they are a very important part of your kit that needs to be correct. If your snowboard bindings are well matched to your snowboard and your riding style then chances are you’ll have a better all-round experience.
Type of Snowboard
The first thing to consider is the snowboard that you will be attaching the bindings to. There are a variety of mounting options and hole patterns on the different makes of snowboard and it is important to know which you have. Most patterns are compatible with each other however some bindings will only have discs/plates for a certain pattern so you need to make sure you are not stuck with the wrong set of plates for your board.
4 Stud Disc patterns
The most common patterns of disc for mounting on boards, these are found on most non-Burton boards and offer varied stance options.
3 Stud Disc Pattern
Typical of most older Burton Snowboards, stance options are a little more restricted.
The Channel System
Used on a lot of newer Burton snowboards it utilizes 2 rails instead of standard inserts to offer considerably more stance options.
The best option is to purchase Burton’s specific EST bindings as these have a much thinner lighter foot bed which allow your feet to have an extremely close connection to the board for increased feel.
Burton also offers a modified plate for non-EST Burton Bindings to use The Channel System.
Other brands are compatible with The Channel System however a special disc will probably be required from the specific manufacturer.
Your Style
As with a snowboard it is important to get bindings that suit the type of snowboarding you like to do. Snowboard bindings can fit into three general style categories.
All-Mountain
This includes the majority of riders as they are people who do a little of everything: powder, groomers, park, etc. These riders will require bindings that usually have a medium flex for multi-purpose use.
Freestyle
Riders who spend the majority of their time in the terrain park are freestyle riders and they will probably require bindings which offer a softer flex allowing greater margin for error on landing jumps and tricks and the ability to tweak grabs.
Freeride
Freeride boarders are all about fast, steep runs and deep, deep powder, they require bindings that have a stiffer flex for better response for going fast and going big.
Types of Snowboard Bindings
Snowboard bindings can be divided into two general categories:
Strap-In Bindings
These are the most common type of bindings. They usually have two straps, an ankle strap and a toe strap which offer plenty of support and adjustment to allow the rider to get the feel just right for them. They are suitable for all styles and conditions of riding.
Rear-Entry Bindings
Most Flow brand bindings are rear entry, they have a hinged back that drops down allowing the rider to simply step into the binding. This allows quick and easy access in and out so no more sitting down to strap in after every lift line. Rear-entry bindings are usually preferred by more comfort-oriented riders.
Sizes
Snowboard bindings come in various sizes – Small S/M, Medium M/L, and Large L/XL. It is essential to have the right size bindings for your boots, so always check out the manufacturer’s binding size chart. We will also advise on the correct size however depending you your boot design this can vary slightly.
Correct Fit
To check you have the correct size binding for your boots, place one in your binding as if you were to strap in. The boot shouldn’t hang excessively over the front of the bindings, nor should the straps be over tightened and the heel should fit snugly in the rear of the binding. A properly fitted binding should allow the boot to flex, but not sway. If you have comfortable boots and the bindings securely grip your boots with no extra play, then you have a good match.
If the two ends of the strap do not meet then it may need to be adjusted – binding straps typically adjust from both sides in order to center the strap over your boot.
Click here to read our Snowboard Buyers Guide