Christy Sports – Snowboard Binding Buying Guide
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SNOWBOARD BINDINGS
Choosing the right pair of snowboard bindings can be tricky. Understanding the information found in this buying guide will help you make the right purchase. The most important thing to consider when buying snowboard bindings is picking a model that suits your riding style. Bindings vary in stiffness, features, and materials. There are also a few different systems available to attach your boots to your bindings. Matching these different performance and comfort features to your personal needs will help you pick the right bindings.
FLEX
Binding flex scale: Rated 1–10 (1 = softest, 10 = stiffest)
Fit factors impacting flex: Height, weight, ability level, and riding style
Soft flex bindings:
- Best for beginners and freestyle riders
- More forgiving; absorb landings and allow easy presses/butters
- Help prevent catching edges
- Examples: Union Flite, Ride CL-4
Stiff bindings:
- Highly responsive and precise
- Transfer power quickly for hard carves and aggressive riding
- Preferred by advanced all-mountain riders
- Examples: Ride A-10, Salomon Highlander
Medium flex bindings:
- Balance comfort and control
- Versatile option suitable for most riders
- Examples: Jones Orion, YES. Airmaster
Mounting System and Strap System
Binding compatibility:
- Most modern snowboards use a standard insert pattern compatible with most bindings.
- Burton Channel system: Proprietary mounting system — confirm compatibility before purchase. Many, but not all modern bindings work with this system.
- Older boards: May have nonstandard insert patterns; check compatibility.
- Tip: Bring your board to a Christy Sports location for expert assistance.
Binding types:
- Two-strap bindings: Standard and most common design.
- Rear-entry bindings (e.g., Flow): Faster to get in/out of; compatible with regular boots.
- Step-in bindings (e.g., Union Atlas Step On): Boot locks into binding via a proprietary Step On system; requires specific boots.
- Hybrid options (e.g., Nidecker Supermatic): Combine strap and step-in systems; work with any regular snowboard boot.
SIZE
- Binding sizes vary by brand (usually S, M, L; some offer XS or XL).
- Choose binding size based on your snowboard boot size.
- Always consult the brand’s size chart for accuracy.
- If between sizes, choose the smaller option for a better fit.
