B by Burton Alpha Snowboard Women's
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Snowboard Binding Buying Guide
Snowboard bindings are the last thing you probably think of when picking out a new snowboard setup. You know you need a board and boots, but don’t forget about the snowboard bindings that connect your boots to your board while you enjoy a day on the mountain. Snowboard bindings come in different styles and materials and, depending on your riding style, they can make a major difference in performance. Pronto’s Snowboard Binding Buying Guide will explain what you should consider as you’re shopping.
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the five
What are the five key points I need to look at?
Snowboard bindings and stance
Before you go out shopping, slide across your kitchen floor and take note. Did you put your left foot in front of you? You’re a regular-footer. Your right foot? You’re goofy-footed.
Freestyle, Freeride or Alpine?
If you have an extreme sports background or plan on spending your time doing tricks, you’re a freestyle rider and should choose low snowboard bindings that keep you close to the board. Freeriders and Alpine racers should choose higher snowboard bindings that allow for tighter turns.
Soft or hard?
The fancier you plan to be on the slopes, the softer the boot you’ll need, as well as a strap-in snowboard binding. Freeride or beginner snowboarders can choose whatever snowboard binding they find most comfortable. Alpine snowboarders should look for a stiffer setup with hard boots and snowboard bindings.
Insert patterns
The industry standard for snowboard bindings is the 4x4, although it doesn’t offer many options in stance. The 4x2 binding setup has holes at twice as many intervals as the 4x4. Slider snowboard bindings allow more freedom, but you may notice a difference in flex. Matching a Burton snowboard and bindings that use Burton’s proprietary 3D system will give you near-limitless options in setting up your stance.
Step-in vs. Strap-in
Strap-in snowboard bindings have been the preferred and, until recently, only system of attaching boots to the snowboard. Ease of use makes step-in snowboard bindings increasingly popular, especially with experienced skiers, although some snowboarders say these bindings don’t offer the same performance.
pronto pick
What product do we recommend?
We like Burton’s Mission Bindings which, although compatible only with Burton snowboards, are widely touted by snowboarders at all experience levels as the best bindings available. These snowboard bindings allow near complete freedom in setting up your stance, are easy to adjust and provide ample cushioning. Small, medium and large sizes are available.
experts say
Transworld Snowboarding—“[The K2 Auto Binding is] a new lightweight, freestyle model from K2 featuring the time-saving technology of the Auto System. An internal system connects the toe and ankle strap so that when you ratchet down the ankle strap, the toe tightens along with it. The toe strap tension can be set independently to return to the same tightness every time-no more, no less.” Source: Transworld Snowboarding
About—“The Forum Recon snowboard bindings are very affordable and comfortable. It takes a bit of time to get all the adjustments dialed in, but after that you'll enjoy a great feel and feel great about the price.” Source: About.com
Outdoorreview.com—“Burton’s C14 is for those who want well-made, no bells and whistles bindings. It’s lightweight, cushioned and easily adjustable… Ridden by more team riders than any other model.” Source: Outdoorreview.com
hot buzz
What's the latest in the world of snowboard bindings?
Up-and-coming freestyle snowboarder Scotty Lago is hitting the half-pipe with Flow M9 bindings between his boots and his board. Vents in the highback and baseplate contribute to an exceptionally light weight, while reinforced sides provide excellent transfer of energy from the legs to the board.
Wallet Impact
What can I expect in my price range?
| Price | Description | Good Pick (see all Snowboard Bindings) |
| $ | Entry-level snowboard bindings may have a lot of flex, meaning they won’t react as quickly to your movements. These bindings also tend to be lower, which means you’ll need boots that provide adequate support. These snowboard bindings are the best choice for beginners and freeriders who aren’t looking to do a lot of tricks. | |
| $$ | Mid-range snowboard bindings are lighter and more comfortable. Match your snowboard bindings to your riding style, with low-back bindings for freestyle tricks and high-back bindings that offer more support for freeriding and Alpine boarding. Look for pre-curved ankle and toe straps. |
Compare prices at 11 stores $225 - $380 |
| $$$ | High-end snowboard bindings are the lightest and offer the most features, including extra cushioning, firmer high-back designs and precurved ankle and toe straps. These bindings are the best choice for experienced riders who need the right balance of support and response. |
Compare prices at 4 stores $215 - $359 |
shop talk
What are the terms and definitions I need to know about?
4x2
An improved version of the 4x4 insert pattern that allows snowboard bindings to be adjusted in ¾” increments.
4x4
A standard insert pattern that allows bindings to be adjusted in 1.5” increments.
Flex
The ability of a snowboard to bend. Freestyle riders need a lot of flex for tricks, while freeriders and Alpine racers prefer stiffer boards.
Front foot
The foot closest to the nose, or front of the snowboard. For a regular-footer this would be their left; for a goofy-footer, their right.
Goofy-footed
A person who rides a snowboard with their right foot forward.
Insert
A small cylinder that attaches to snowboard bindings. It reinforces the area of a snowboard where the screws are.
Normal-footed
A person who rides a snowboard with their left foot forward.
Rear foot
The foot closest to the rail, or back of the snowboard.
Sliders
Snowboard bindings that work with grooves instead of insert holes. While this binding system allows more freedom to set your stance, some boarders find that it reduces flex.
Soft boots
The most comfortable and compatible type of snowboard boot. Soft boots allow the most freedom and are preferred for tricks.
Stance
The position of your legs and feet when you ride a snowboard. Snowboard bindings can be adjusted to give you a stance that feels natural for the type of riding you prefer.
guide tools
Research Central
We've compiled this group of information links to help you further your research