You've probably seen riders at your local ski resort who seem to effortlessly glide off the chairlift and onto the slopes without the hassle of traditional strap bindings. They just step in and go. If strapping in is a constant source of woe, quick set bindings may be for you.This guide will cover who makes step-in bindings, how they work, how to get into them, some pros and cons and answer other questions, including boot and board compatibility.
Unlike traditional snowboard bindings, quick set bindings don't rely on toe and ankle straps to keep your boots attached to the snowboard. Instead, they use a locking mechanism to connect your boots to the board so you can click in and ride. These bindings are designed to save time, energy and strap-induced frustration on the slopes.
We'll dive deeper into the specifics of how the interface works below, but it's important to note that quick set bindings are designed to be used together with specialized boots. You can't use one without the other, as these boots include components that lock directly into the binding itself.
A Blast from the Past: Step-In Binding History
While these boot and binding systems seem futuristic, they're actually a blast from the past. Brands like Burton and K2 hawked earlier iterations of step-in bindings in the late 1990s and 2000s and, while hot for a moment, they didn't really catch on. But R&D teams redesigned their respective technologies and ultimately released newer step-in bindings that are currently on the market: Burton with the more well-known and trademarked version, Step On® snowboard bindings and Step On snowboard boots; K2 with its new Clicker X HB system.
Burton, for example, refined its technology and introduced Step On bindings in 2017. Unlike its earlier rendition that joined boot to binding at the sole of the boot, the brand's new Step On system locks from the heel cup and the toe box, providing more leverage and a higher-performance ride.
Read also: Review: Nidecker's Step-In Bindings
The roots of the newer Step On tech trace back about a decade when the late Jake Burton Carpenter asked the Burton research and development team to design a boot and binding interface that was easy to use, steepened snowboarding's gradual learning curve and would help reduce barriers to entry for the sport.
Which Burton Step On Bindings Are Best For You?
Throughout the R&D process, Burton realized that the performance applications of the improved system didn't just make the tech attractive for beginners, but for intermediates and even some advanced riders too. The Vermont-based brand has since licensed its Step On technology to snowboard bootmakers DC and Nitro with the hope that Step Ons will become widespread throughout the snowboard world and help more beginners learn the ropes.
How Step-In Bindings Work
Step-in bindings might seem complicated, but the tech is quite simple. While the interface may differ a bit between brands, the idea is the same: Just step into the bindings, apply pressure and lock the boot into place. For example, in the Step On boot/binding system, Step On boots sport cleats on both sides of the toes and one cleat at the heel. Step On bindings have two corresponding hooks at the toes and a corresponding clip at the heel.
When the boot presses into the binding, the cleats lock into the toe hooks and heel clip, providing three points of contact and locking the foot in place. To release the boot, simply pop the lever on the heel cup, lift your heel and voilà-you're free to skate onto the lift.
Step-by-Step: Getting Into Burton Step On Bindings
Looking for a more thorough explanation? Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how to get into Burton Step On bindings. Think: Heel, toe and go.
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- Place your board on relatively flat ground perpendicular to the fall line so the board doesn't slide away from you.
- Clear any snow off the base of the bindings before stepping in.
- Start with the heel. Press the heel of the boot into the heel clip on the highback of the binding until you hear a click. Press down until you hear a second click. (Tip: Ensure that your pant leg is in the metal clip on the back of your Step On boots to prevent it from getting caught.)
- Next, lock in your boot at the toes. Apply pressure so your toe cleats click into the side toe hooks on your bindings. Wiggle your boot from side to side to make sure both toe cleats are locked.
- You're ready to ride!
Boot Compatibility
Many snowboarders are interested in trying step-in bindings but have perfectly functioning boots at home. Unfortunately, because the boots are half of the locking mechanism, Step On bindings, for example, are solely compatible with Step On boots. As mentioned above, Burton has licensed its Step On technology to other snowboard bootmakers like DC and Nitro in recent years, so those brands also offer Step On boots to fit Step On-specific bindings.
K2 is another brand with step-in bindings, called Clicker X HB, which only work with Clicker X HB boots. In other words: Yes, you need compatible boots.
Pros and Cons of Step-In Bindings
Like any snowboard gear, step-in bindings have advantages and disadvantages. Here's a breakdown:
Pros:
- Convenience: The biggest reason step-in bindings are gaining popularity is that snowboarders can avoid strapping in at the top of runs. That means no more ice-cold keister, a lot less bending over and more time to ride. Practiced users can stomp into step-in bindings extremely quickly, allowing them to maximize time spent riding as opposed to fiddling with bindings.
- Impressive response: Because the toe and heel of the boot are directly connected to the binding, riders report that edge-to-edge response is as immediate as it gets. This connectivity is also helpful when generating pop for ollies.
Cons:
- Too "locked in": Some strap purists appreciate the wiggle room of traditional bindings, especially when tweaking grabs, throwing tricks or leaning into butters and presses, and they report losing that playfulness with step-in bindings. There's also been mention of uncomfortable pressure points due to the stiffer tongue construction of the boots.
- Compatibility: Because of the tech at play and the need to match boot to binding, there are fewer boot options on the market-at least for now.
- Can take some getting used to: For some, riding step-in bindings is a natural transition. For others, it can take some getting used to. Some riders report that binding entry and exit on steeper slopes or in deep powder can be more challenging than with traditional strap bindings.
Who Should Use Step-In Bindings?
Here's a look at whether step-in bindings are right for different rider levels:
Beginners:
Beginners may love step-in bindings because of the ease of entry and exit. Beginners often spend fewer days per year on the slopes, meaning every minute on the hill is precious. And as we mentioned earlier, less time spent messing with bindings means more time turning and learning.
Read also: Battle Bindings: Performance and Value
While Step Ons were originally conceived for beginners, be sure to do your research. There are multiple Step On options on the market for both boots and bindings. Beginners should gravitate toward the softer, more affordable options, as they'll be easier to flex, drive and command.
Advanced Riders:
If you're an advanced rider, you may prefer the ride feel and play provided by traditional bindings. That said, improvements in Step On binding tech and boot comfort might make now the time to give the Step On system a try, particularly if bending over to strap in is a constant thorn in your ride. If you're a parent trying to keep up with the groms, regularly ride with skiers or have limited time on the slopes, even more reason to dip your toes in Step On life.
Board Compatibility
Can you put Step On bindings on any snowboard? Re:Flex Step On Bindings are compatible with boards that sport traditional 4 x 4 hole patterns as well as the Burton Channel system. EST Step Ons are solely compatible with boards that use the Channel system.
Alternative Quick Entry System: FASE Fast Entry System
The FASE (Fast Entry System) is a high-performance two-strap snowboard binding system that delivers fast, step-in and rear-entry style convenience. The FASE system enhances the locked-in, responsive ride of a true two-strap binding while preserving its performance, comfort and full compatibility with all snowboard boots.
Three components work together to make entry and exit faster and more intuitive:
- The AutoBack: The AutoBack is the key to the FASE Fast Entry System. It allows for hands-free entry by automatically closing as your boot steps into the binding and opening when you lift your heel to exit.
- The FastStrap: The FastStrap is an innovative long ankle ladder that stays connected for ultra-fast, one-handed strapping.
- The Locked-In Toe Strap: The Locked-In Toe Strap is designed to stay in place and complement the Fast Entry System. Simply set the tension and ride.
Step-by-Step: Getting Into FASE Fast Entry Bindings
- Open mode: When the AutoBack is angled back with the hitch engaged on the pedal and the FastStrap fully open, the binding is ready for entry.
- Insert your boot and catch the toe strap. (The AutoBack closes automatically as the Locked-In Toe Strap stays in place.)
- Buckle down only the FastStrap (ankle strap). (Since the ankle ladder is already engaged, you only need one hand to complete!)
With the AutoBack closed around your boot, and the FastStrap securely buckled you’re ready to charge in any terrain or snow condition.
How do I step out?
- Simply open the FastStrap (ankle strap) until it stops.
- Bend your knee, lift your heel, and exit completely.(The AutoBack opens automatically.)
The FASE Fast Entry System is built for riders who want fast, step-in style convenience without giving up the precision and board feel of a true two-strap binding. It works for beginners through experts, from all-mountain cruising to steep freeriding, deep powder, park laps, and everything in between.
Still a Skeptic?
No worries, traditional strap-in bindings aren't going anywhere. At least not yet.
