Finding the Right Snowboard Binding for Your Style

The snowboard binding is an important accessory in snowboarding. This is because it is the snowboard bindings that attach your snowboard boots to your snowboard. There are different types of bindings available, which depend on your riding style. However when buying your snowboard binding, it is important to take your snowboard boots with you to ensure the right fit.

Different types of snowboard boots work with different types of snowboard bindings as every boot is not suitable for every type of binding. The most flexible system is the soft boots and strap on/flow-in bindings. Here any soft snowboarding boots can be used. It is the freestylers and freeriders who prefer this binding as it provides maximum flexibility and maneuverability. This combination is also comfortable when you're off your snowboard.

In the case of the soft/hard step-in boots with step-in bindings, you need step-in boots to go along with the step-in bindings. Both boots and bindings have to have the same step-in systems where you can easily get on and off your board. The drawback here is that step-ins generally offer fewer alternatives and the cheaper systems don't provide sufficient board control.

You get the most direct and solid control on your snowboard with hard boots and plate/lever bindings. This is because all your body movements are directly transmitted onto the board where there is no padding to absorb the energy. It is the freecarvers who prefer this form of boot-binding as they need this control when making high speed turns.

Bindings are available in two to three sizes; small, medium and large. You have to choose your size depending on the size of the snowboard boot that you intend to use with the binding. Just ensure that the binding permits you to fit into the binding, and that you can easily adjust straps without having too much of strap on either side of the binding.

The highback is the plate found at the end of the binding that serves in protecting your heels and calves. There are different highbacks meant for different bindings. You have to choose it based on your riding style. The smaller and more flexible highback provides for extra maneuverability and is great if you ride freestyle.

However the aggressive freeriders and freecarvers prefer the higher and stiffer highbacks as they provide extra control. You get maximum control with bindings that have no highbacks, and only hard boots.
When buying your snowboard binding, ensure that the heel of your boot slides easily into the binding. There should be no excess movement from side to side in your boot either. With this done, if you connect all straps and have a snug and comfortable fit, then it is considered that the snowboard binding is the right size for you.