How to Buy Snowboard Bindings

Choosing the right pair of snowboard bindings is an important decision that will affect each and every day you spend on the mountain. In addition to a board and boots, bindings are key snowboarding gear that you simply can't ride without. They keep your feet attached to the snowboard so that you can transfer your physical motion onto the board. While choosing bindings is a big decision, there are only a few factors to consider before making the purchase.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Snowboard boots
Snowboard boots

Step 1

Determine the type of binding system that you want. Choose strap bindings to have the best selection of bindings to choose from. They are the most common type and have been around since the early days.

Step 2

Choose flow-in bindings for quicker, easier entry. There aren't nearly as many flow-in bindings to choose from, but the rear entry system allows for quick fastening and less adjustment.

Step 3

Consider how much support or flexibility you need. For park, pipe and other freestyle riding, choose a lower-back binding that is more flexible and allows the mobility needed to safely perform tricks. If you're just starting out, it's best to lean toward a more flexible, freestyle binding.

Step 4

Choose a stiffer binding for freeride, big mountain and high-speed riding. The extra support from a stiff base and high back will provide the reactivity needed to push long, fast lines.

Step 5

Go to a snowboard shop. You could buy the bindings online, but trying them out in a shop is a better course of action.

Step 6

Get a pair or a couple of pairs of bindings in your size and try them out with your snowboard boots on. The bindings are curved on the inside of the foot much like a shoe so it's easy to tell the left from the right.

Step 7

Make sure that the straps tighten firmly around your boots and don't dig into your feet or cause uncomfortable pressure points. Also make sure the high backs offer good support and are comfortable.

Step 8

Consider the hardware and adjustability of the bindings. Make sure that the ratchets work smoothly and are easy to operate; you'll be using them every run, so you want them as smooth as possible. Tool-free adjustments will allow you to adjust things like high back lean, strap length and strap position right on the slopes without needing to head to the shop.

Step 9

Consider the performance features like padding inserts under the foot to provide some impact absorption and adjustable gas pedals that will prevent toe overhang and provide additional reaction on the toeside edge.

Tips & Warnings

Use Loctite or teflon tape when inserting your binding screws to prevent them from popping out. When in doubt, read binding reviews and ask for input from friends and shop staff as to what bindings are the best buys.

Use Loctite or teflon tape when inserting your binding screws to prevent them from popping out.

When in doubt, read binding reviews and ask for input from friends and shop staff as to what bindings are the best buys.

Article Written By Joe Fletcher

Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.

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