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It is important to seek snowboard bindings that match your riding style. Snowboard bindings can fit into three general style categories. As important as it is for binding flex to match your style of riding, you should also determine the amount of binding flex you would want according to the flex of your boot. It would not make sense to have a stiff binding and a soft boot or vice versa. For the best results in tailoring your ride to fit your style, make sure that the flex of your bindings matches closely to the flex of your boots.
Many manufacturers will give a number rating ranging from 1-10, 1 being softest and 10 being stiffest. Here at evo we have standardized the manufacturers' number ratings to a feel rating ranging from soft to very stiff. Generally you will find flex ratings of 1-2 as soft, 3-5 as medium, 6-8 as stiff, and 9-10 as very stiff. Flex ratings and feel may ultimately vary from binding to binding.
Riders who spend the majority of their time in the terrain park laying down tricks are considered park or freestyle riders. Snowboard bindings in this category generally offer a softer flex allowing greater room for error, easier landings, and the ability to tweak grabs.
The all-mountain category includes riders who do a little of everything: powder, groomed runs, park, etc. These bindings usually have a medium flex for all-purpose use.
This category is all about the steep and the deep - powder and speed on challenging terrain. These bindings have a stiffer flex for better response and energy transfer to the snowboard for going fast and going big.
Snowboard bindings can be divided into two general categories:
These are the most common type of bindings. They usually use two straps (one above or across the toe and one across the ankle). Strap-in bindings offer plenty of options for support, cushioning and custom adjustments. They are suitable for all styles and conditions of riding.
These are also called Speed Entry Bindings. They have a hinged high back that drops down like a draw bridge allowing you to simply step into the binding. In addition, the hinged back promotes quick and easy access in and out. No more making your skier friends wait for you. Rear-entry bindings are usually preferred by more comfort-oriented riders.
Snowboard bindings consist of multiple components:
Snowboard bindings come in general 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 on individual product pages to see what size binding you need.
Even after consulting the manufacturer’s size chart, it is very important to check that the binding fits your boots. Do this by placing your boot in your binding as if you were to strap in; the boots shouldn’t hang excessively off the bindings, nor should the straps be painfully tightened or have left over slack. If the strap ladder does not reach the ratchet, it may need to be adjusted - binding straps typically adjust from both sides in order to center the strap over your boot. The heel should fit snugly in the binding. A properly fit 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.
Just like snowboards, snowboard bindings come with different options for mounting. There are a variety of mounting options and hole patterns on snowboards. Most patterns are compatible with each other, but it's good to make sure you are not stuck with the wrong set. Luckily, most brands nowadays have universal discs or make multiple discs to cover different types of mounting holes, such as The Channel System from Burton.
Compatible with most hole patterns, but stance options are more restricted
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evo also likes to travel to remote places across the globe in search of world-class powder turns, epic waves, or legendary mountain biking locations through evoTrip Adventure Travel Trips. Or, if you prefer to travel on your own, check out our ski & snowboard resort travel guides, and mountain bike trail guides.Still have questions? Please give our customer care team a call at 866-386-1590, Customer Care Hours. They can help you find the right skis to fit your needs.