Snowboard Bindings from Burton K2 Union Ride Salomon

Strap Bindings

These are the original bindings for snowboards. Your boot is secured into the binding through the use of a baseplate and ratchet-based buckles. There are two straps on each binding - a wide, comfy ankle strap that pulls your foot back into the heel cup of the binding, and a narrower toe strap used to hold your toe down. There are variations of the standard toe strap now such as Burton's Capstrap and Rides Convertible Toe Strap that fit around the toe of your boot helping to push your foot down and back into the binding and eliminating any aches or pains that you may experience across the top of your foot with a traditional toe strap.
Advantages of a strap-in snowboard binding include being able to use any make of boot with any make of binding which means you have a better chance of finding the perfect set up. Also you are able to adjust each individual strap for maximum comfort and support. Freestylers tend to prefer strap-in snowboard bindings because of their increased support and hold. Disadvantages are that initially you will probably have to sit down to strap in which uses valuable time although with time and practice it becomes easy to do while your standing up or even on the go.

Do your bindings have to be the same brand as your board and boots?

The short answer to this question is no. However, manufacturers tend to design specific board, boot and binding set ups even going so far as to match their graphics to each other. Although this has its advantages as they are designed to work best together this is not always the case as a board set up is a highly individual piece of kit and often what the manufacturers recommend isn't always right for you.

One of the most obvious examples is the huge number of people who use Flow snowboard bindings but do not use Flow boots. This is only one example and can be generalised across the market, it is common for riders to have boots, bindings and board all made by different manufacturers.

So now you've a good idea of what to look for when buying your bindings. If however, you're still confused or just want a more personal opinion then call one of our experts on (01743) 363443. Alternatively, email us on shrewsbury@sailandski.co.uk with your question.