Question:
step in or strap in snowboard binding?
anonymous
2007-03-30 10:37:25 UTC
step in or strap in snowboard binding?
Thirteen answers:
Paul G
2007-03-30 14:34:18 UTC
Lets not forget that no one even makes a step-in binding any more. K2 dumped Clicker a few years ago as did Vans with Switch. I believe even Burton stopped producing the SI system.



Straps are definitely better than step-ins for numerous reasons, performance being first and foremost. As far as step-ins being less secure, that really isn't an issue. In the four years of running a rental shop that exclusively used Switch bindings I never had a customer fall out of their bindings.



Of the semi-step-in systems (Flow and K2's Cinch binding) I have to give the nod to K2. The straped interface is more performance oriented than Flow's pad interface.
rail_rat
2007-03-31 01:39:54 UTC
As others have pointed out there is a distinction between step ins that have a metal cleat on the boot that locks into the binding and bindings that have a swinging high back (Flows & K2 cinch).



There are still a lot of the first step ins (w/ metal cleats) in resort rental shops. While a good idea in theory they aren't very practical because what often ends up happening is that the cleat/locking mechanism often gets snow wedged in causing it to ice over and become non-functional. Don't recommend this type at all.



I have both Flows (swinging high back) and conventional strap bindings mounted on my boards. Things to consider regarding Flows and K2 Cinch:



1) They tend to be much heavier than strap bindings... sometimes almost twice as heavy depending on the model



2) Setting up the Flows so that they fit properly is a trial and error process that you'll have to do while riding. Many people bag on Flows saying that they don't support well or their feet slip out.... but that is because they haven't set them up properly. I own a pair of Flow's high end team binding (with the magnesium base) and they are as stiff as any strap binding out there (but heavier).



3) Once you've riden Flows for awhile and get used to them you can strap in much quicker off the lift... I've been able to kick my back foot in and engage the highback while riding off at times.



In the end it's a matter of personal preference and not so much one of performance... I mostly ride toecap strap bindings. But if the park/pipe is crappy and the only place good to ride are groomers than I take my "speed/freeride" board and Flow bindings.... less time strapping in = more time riding :)



Peace from Mt. Hood, Oregon
glimlach
2007-03-30 19:55:11 UTC
Straps! I used step-ins for about 2 years, and while it's very easy to just get off the lift and step in, it doesn't have as mush support as a strap-in.
Alasdair M
2007-03-30 17:48:31 UTC
While any step-in system may seem more convenient at first, straps are undoubtedly a better choice as they give you significantly better response. As you improve the relative convenience of step-in will pale in comparison to the response you get from your straps.
Lime745
2007-03-30 17:46:21 UTC
You're definitely more sercure in straps, but it's a lot faster to get in to step ins. It's really your preference- I like straps but my friend I ride with won't use anything but step ins.
cathoratio
2007-03-30 17:39:51 UTC
Strap in bindings are the best. Do not get clickers!



Or if you mean Flows, I guess they are okay, but I still prefer straps. I have Burton Escapades and they are very comfy!
Konrad
2007-04-01 20:02:44 UTC
strap. step-in's have no high-back, so you don't have a lot of support in your turns. if you are talking about flow bindings, then they aren't that great either because in order to step in easily, they have to be loose and therefore you also have less control on your board.
anonymous
2007-04-02 02:16:45 UTC
STRAP are better cuz there more reliable then step in but step in are faster well i prefer strap cuz they feel better on my boots
mountaingirl88
2007-03-31 01:59:20 UTC
Strap ins. Step in are s**t believe me. I rented those and they were horrible. I found that I didn't have as much control and it hurt my feet and legs more. It was more of a strain on my legs. DON'T GET THOSE!
Vicki j
2007-04-01 00:46:46 UTC
strap in are more safer especially if u r a begginer but step r faster but would defenetly have the flows
iisasnowboarder
2007-04-02 22:14:41 UTC
strap ins are waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better. they give you more control, they're easier to get in (not faster, but easier), and they dont ice up and become imposible to get into. go strap in, step ins suck!
Unknown
2007-03-30 17:40:29 UTC
Faster if you step in

More secure if strap
anonymous
2007-04-01 22:44:38 UTC
strap in! never get clickers, they are so annoying!!


This content was originally posted on Y! Answers, a Q&A website that shut down in 2021.
Loading...