Snowboard Equipment : Bindings
Picking snowboard bindings may seem like a daunting task. The function of the bindings is to make sure that your feet are comfortably and securely attached to the snowboard. There are simply so many different styles, typs and makes of snowboard bindings, that is can leave many people confused as to what they should pick. Types of snowboard bindings include :
- Strap Bindings:: Typically the cheaper type of binding, but functional none the less. They can take a bit longer to get into but can give a very secure holding sensation. No special boots are required. The straps can be in slightly different positions, typically there are two, one on the toe or the front of the foot, and one higher up toward the ankle area.
- Step-In Bindings:: Can be alot faster, simply your boot clips in via the sole. Here you will need to insure that you have boots that are compatabile with the step-in system. These boots need to be stiffer than traditional snowboard boots.
- Flow-In Bindings:: These are a mixture between the first two types, Strap and Step-In. Their benefit is that they don't require special types of boots. These bindings are much quicker than other types of bindings to release and to get into. Flow-In bindings can be difficult to adjust, and to achieve the sensation of being 100% strapped in.
- Baseless Bindings:: These are a further developement from the Step-In type bindings, but tend not to have a visible heel portion. The snowboard boot touches directly on the snowboard, and thus you can get a better sense of control from them.
- Plate Bindings:: These bindings are preferred by the race board riders. These bindings consist of a firm baseplate with a steel toe or heel lever to release. These bindings are very similar to traditional skiing bindings.
Picking the right bindings
Depending on your skill level you should think about bindings, if you are starting out snowboarding, or if you are interested in doing trick, the Strap Bindings are probably for you. Also Strap bindings have a smaller base plate footprint. This means that if you have larger feet, that your heel won't be hitting into the snow on tighter turns. So whereever you go on your snowboard holiday, with the proper equipment you can insure that you have the best of time there.
Often when picking bindings, price is a consideration. Many manfacurers of bindings (Burton, Nitro, Drake and Flux) will often offer packages of both boots and bindings. As only certain boots work with certain boots, you need to ask your supplied if there could be any issues. Bindings tend to be one of the more resiliant pieces of snowboard equipment, they will probably out live your snowboard (good for typically 4 seasons if treated well) and your boots (good for around 3 seasons, if you feet don't grow and you treat your boots well). For this reason we would suggest that you buy good quality bindings and they could last you up to 10 years.
What are snowboard bindings Highbacks
Highbacks are the piece of the binding that goes up from your heel and past your ankle. It acts to give the snowboarder even more control, some snowboard say that increases the sensitivity, and is most noticable on their heel edge. Advanced snowboarders who need to make turns at a faster pace tend to prefer highbacks.