Hibernating in winter is not the best option. Keep your spirits up with winter sports such as snowboarding. You might be hesitant to try this sport if you’re a beginner due to the possible injuries. These injuries can be avoided if you choose the right snowboard bindings for you.
Snowboarding is great for your physical, mental, and emotional health. It allows you to experience breathtaking views while on the move. Finding the right snowboard bindings will make snowboarding more fun and safer.
The closest interface between you, your board and snowboard bindings is the snowboard binding. You need to choose the best. An excellent binding must enhance your board’s natural flex pattern while giving you all-day comfort and preventing your feet from hurting. Bad binding choices can make your boarding difficult and even fatal, no matter how experienced you are.
There are many factors to consider when choosing one. However, it comes down to personal preference and the best options for you. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right snowboard bindings.
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Snowboard bindings: What to Look For?
Even though most winter resorts offer snowboard boots and bindings in pairs, buying one for yourself is a good idea, especially if it’s your first time and you are prone to injury. You will have a better experience riding if your snowboard bindings match your style and board. These are the things you need to consider when shopping for snowboard bindings.
Types of Binding
Binding types depends on the binding strap’s pressure. There are two main types: speed-entry bindings and strap-in bindings.
Strap-in Bindings
The first binding type is “strap-in” bindings best for free-riders and those who are precise about the binding straps’ pressure. Backcountry is a favorite place for free-riders. They must strap-in at all points of steep slopes. If you prefer to apply the binding straps independently and precisely on your ankle and toes, then strap-in bindings may be a good option.
Speed-entry Bindings
The second type is “speed-entry” bindings that are best for beginners and those who want to stick to the groomers. It can also be done in the backcountry, depending upon your preference. You can also strap in standing with speed-entry bindings for beginners, making it easier to lift yourself. This binding type is also recommendable if you have many skiers riding around you as you don’t need to bind yourself, which could consume other boarders’ time.
Flexibility
Most bindings are related with flex. This refers to the riding style for which the binding is appropriate. So make sure you assess your riding style first. Most brands rate flex on a scale of 1-10. One being the most flexible and ten being stiffest. Below are the types of binding flexes by intended use.
- Beginners: Soft to medium flex patterns (3-4 out of 10).
- Freestylers: Soft to Medium-soft Flex Pattern (1-6 of 10), enough to do tricks while jibbing
- All-mountain: Medium flex pattern (4-8 of 10) with enough support to power through hardpack crud but soft enough to do park laps.
- Freeride: Stiff flex pattern (7-10/10), with the fastest response and most power transmission for the more aggressive rider
- Splitboard: Customized bindings to give you a closer-to-the board feel
Size
To ensure compatibility, make sure your boots and board are the same size as the bindings you plan to use. A snowboard binding that is too small will not secure and ratchet your feet. A binding that is too large can result in less board control and response. The sizes of the bindings will vary depending on the measurement of children, men, and women. different sizes depending on brands.
Most bindings offer a variety of strap-length and heel cup-angle adjustments that allow for customized fitting. To optimize your performance, learn how to adjust these options.
Compatibility
Most bindings available today can be used on multiple mounting platforms. There are four types of snowboard binding mounting interfaces to ensure your board fits with the bindings.
- 4-hole (standard)
- 3D (usually found in Burton boards)
- channel (the most versatile alternative for 3-D and 4-hole systems)
- Splitboard system (for only splitboard mounting)
Snowboarding offers health benefits
Snowboarding is famous for its recreational purposes, but only a few boarders know its benefits for a rider’s health and wellness. Here are four benefits of snowboarding for your health that will inspire you and your family.
- Snowboarding burns calories: It is a great cardiovascular activity if you want to lose weight. The steeper you go, the more calories can be burned. Cold weather has its advantages, as your body works harder to raise your temperature.
- Snowboarding strengthens lower body muscles. Because this sport requires a squat position it can strengthen your calves and glutes.
- Snowboarding increases flexibility and balance. You can improve your agility and adaptability by snowboarding. While maintaining core balance, you need to change directions frequently.
- Snowboarding lifts your mood. Exercising outdoors promotes increased production of endorphins – responsible for happy feelings.
Differences between Snowboard and Ski Bindings
You might be confused if you’re a beginner snowboarder. While snowboarders ride sideways, skiers go downhill. While snowboards can only be bound onto one board, ski boots require a pair for each foot.
Skiers can also attach to their skis ski bindings While standing, snowboarders must lock their boots into the bindings. The snowboarder must remove the binding and attach it to the skis. There is no way to release the binding automatically.
How to maintain your snowboard and its bindings
Let’s face it: snowboards are a bit costly, especially if they are out of premium qualities. These are the essential maintenance tips for your snowboard and bindings to prolong its lifespan.
Snowboard maintenance
You might also like: How to adjust Rossignol Ski Bindings
Snowboard binding maintenance
FAQ’s
Why do I need snowboard bindings?
Snowboard bindings transmit power from your core muscles, legs and feet to the board. Therefore, it is important to choose snowboard bindings which provide enough control for your board while keeping your feet comfortable.
How much do snowboard bindings cost?
Used snowboard bindings are often around $100-$300, while new bindings can cost between $400-$600.
How long can snowboard bindings last?
Bindings will last for 80 to 100 riding days. Straps are already worn out. To ensure safety, you should replace the screws every other year.
Conclusion
Snowboard bindings act as the link between you, your snowboard boots, snowboard, and your snowboard. You can have better control of your board and maximize your boarding performance by choosing the right snowboard bindings.
