For advanced and expert snowboarders seeking enhanced performance and convenience, the Burton Step On system, particularly when paired with boots like the Burton Tribute, presents a compelling option. This review delves into the experiences of a seasoned rider who has spent five seasons using the Burton Step On system, offering insights into its benefits and potential drawbacks.
Initially skeptical, the reviewer was converted after experiencing the improved edge-to-edge performance and convenience of the Step On system. The ability to "pull/push" the board without traditional straps resulted in a noticeable enhancement in control and responsiveness. The ease of stepping in and out, especially when riding with skiers or other Step On users, is another significant advantage.
Unstrapping and stepping out take about the same amount of time once you get over the initial learning curve. At first you will find it annoying, but you just need to twist out a bit like MTB pedals.
One more reason to love step ons... No floppy bits when walking to the lift.
The reviewer's preferred binding is the Genesis, which offers a comfortable and stiff feel without heel bite. While the Ion boot is generally favored, the speed lace system may not provide sufficient tightness at the top for riders with low-volume ankles and high, small calves. As an alternative, the reviewer plans to test the Photon boots in both standard and soft versions to find the ideal fit.
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The reviewer normally freerides when there is pow and carves around and/or plays with side hits when there is no fresh snow.
The edge-to-edge performance improvement is due to "pulling/pushing" the board without pressing into straps. Also never having to stop to ratchet down a binding after a few turns is very nice.
As for coming off the lift and stepping on... ya it's very sweet especially if you ride with skiers (or other Step On riders). The reviewer could strap in while moving and this is still way easier/faster.
The reviewer believes that a triple boa Ion Step On would be the perfect boot, though it may not be available.
Durability and Reliability
Interestingly, the reviewer has experienced fewer binding failures with Step On systems compared to traditional strap bindings, attributing this to their simpler design.
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I've actually had less binding failures with step ons than any of my strap bindings. I think it's just because they are less complicated.
Ideal User
If you prefer a very loose feel, these probably aren't for you.
Genesis Bindings
Genesis is my favorite binding. Nonexistent heel bite and just about as stiff as the standard binding while being more comfortable.
Boot Fit Considerations
The reviewer has low volume ankles with a high, small calves (yes I do calf raises ), and I've found that the speed lace in the Ion just doesn't get tight enough at the top.
The reviewer is going to give photons a try this season (in the standard and soft variety) and in the 8.5 and a 9 just to see how it goes.
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The reviewer believes that his perfect boot would be a triple boa Ion Step On, but that may never happen.
Quick story on how the reviewer ended up in them. The reviewer was riding Union bindings and K2 Maysis boots that felt fine, but he had a buddy who comes out once or twice a year from Florida to ride. He's your typical vacation snowboarder who sits down to strap in after every lift.
The reviewer went with him to get him on a fast system (totally selfishly) and had no intention of liking/buying them, but after the first few turns he knew he would be getting a setup. The reviewer couldn't believe the edge to edge performance improvement due to "pulling/pushing" the board without pressing into straps. Also never having to stop to ratchet down a binding after a few turns was very nice.
When COVID hit in March 2020 and the resorts all shut down, the reviewer spent the rest of the season (March to April) splitboarding, hiking and playing around in empty resorts. I ended up ordering everything half off during this time for myself and a few riding buddies.
The reviewer has gotten a lot of good riders into them (my main riding partner is an absolute ripper who's been riding for 30+ years) and all of them were totally skeptical.
Summary: The Burton Tribute Snowboard Boots, when paired with the Step On system, offer a compelling combination of performance, convenience, and reliability for experienced snowboarders. While boot fit is crucial, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to enhance their time on the slopes.
