The Nidecker Supermatic bindings offer a quick in and out experience, rivaling the speed of Burton Step On systems. This review delves into the various aspects of these bindings, providing a comprehensive overview for snowboarders considering this option.
Weight and Comparison
One of the most notable aspects of the Nidecker Supermatic is its weight. At 2.8 lbs, these are the heaviest bindings tested. Most bindings typically weigh between 1.8lbs and 2.2lbs, making the extra weight of the Supermatic noticeable.
While some argue that the weight difference is balanced out by the weight of Burton Step On boots, this isn't necessarily true. After weighing many Burton Step-On boots, they were found to be similar in weight to standard Burton boots, around 2-2.4 lbs, with most boots weighing between 1.8-2.4 lbs. Thus, the Supermatics will generally be heavier overall.
Ease of Use
The Nidecker Supermatic excels in providing a quick and efficient entry and exit. It's as fast as the Burton Step On system and preferred over the Clew bindings because it doesn't require reaching behind the calf to pull a lever. Compared to traditional Flow bindings, the Supermatic is significantly faster and easier to use, eliminating the need to pull up a lever.
Flex and Feel
The highback flex of the Nidecker Supermatic is a highlight. It offers a nice medium to medium-soft twist and a decent amount of give at the top, providing a comfortable "mullet feel." However, the Supermatic lacks flex underfoot, making it harder to butter and creating a somewhat dead feel compared to most bindings from the 2020s. It isn't as bad as the Clew binding, but in comparison to most bindings in the 2020s, it is lacking.
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Responsiveness
Despite the lack of underfoot flex, the Nidecker Supermatic offers a good amount of response. When paired with the Nidecker Mellow 155, which is a bit wide, the bindings powered the board edge to edge effectively, resulting in satisfying turns. The Hybrid Straps, borrowed from Flow's Nidecker Fusion, contribute to evening out the response compared to Flow's Fusion Straps.
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Shock Absorption
The Nidecker Supermatic falls short in heel shock absorption compared to Burton Step On bindings but offers better shock absorption than the Clew bindings, which only have a thin layer of EVA foam across the footbed. The Hybrid strap setup is commendable, providing ample support without needing adjustments after stepping in, unlike some Flow bindings with Fusion Straps.
Adjustability and Other Features
There is little to no boot-to-binding adjustability. That is just a problem with most quick-release/step-in bindings. There is some stance width adjustability if you are in the middle of the suggested sizing. The ratchets aren’t super smooth but they are meant to be set up once and forgotten.
Summary
Despite its weight, limited adjustability, and less modern underfoot feel, the Nidecker Supermatic manages to deliver a pretty good overall riding experience with great response.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.8 lbs (Heavier than most bindings) |
| Ease of Use | Quick in and out, comparable to Burton Step On |
| Highback Flex | Medium to medium-soft twist with good give at the top |
| Underfoot Flex | Lacking, makes buttering harder |
| Responsiveness | Good, powers the board edge to edge effectively |
| Shock Absorption | Lacking in heel compared to Burton Step On |
| Strap Type | Hybrid Straps (from Flow's Nidecker Fusion) |
| Adjustability | Little to no boot-to-binding adjustability |
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