History of snowboarding. What types of bindings are installed on a Park or freestyle snowboard?

Since the advent of snowboarding, there have been different options for “bindings” (if you can call them that) for riding a board down a snowy slope. In this article we will try to trace how fastenings have developed from the very first options to the present day.

1. Fastenings appeared in the first Snerfers back in 1966. At that time, metal brackets served as fastenings that created adhesion to the board. This type of fastening was used until the early 1970s.

3. The first Flite boards used ridges fused into the topsheet.

5. In the mid-1970s, Burton experimented with different materials to improve the grip of his feet and board, including some rather exotic options - crushed glass and sand for aquariums. A light of hope has arrived with a new product from 3M. The first Burton boards from 1977 to 1984 were equipped with self-adhesive rubber from 3M.

7. Manufacturers tried to make the fixing straps tighter to hold the legs more securely. As a result, the idea of ​​a clamp (an old door handle) was born that allowed the straps to be tightened further after the legs were inserted into the bindings.

9. In the early 1980s, Winterstick began using foam-filled belts.

11. Many were scared by the fact that their legs were fastened to the board. But later it turned out that falling is much safer if your feet remain on the board. In 1982, Burton used a heel-holding strap in the bindings, and the front and rear fastenings were the same.

13. Here's what Burton bindings looked like with fasteners designed to look like fasteners on ski boots. Model late 1970s early 1980s.

15. Soon after the introduction of soft backs, manufacturers began to use hard backs, but soft backs continued to be widely used.

16. In the mid-1980s, bindings began using a new oddity called the highback - one of the biggest advances in snowboard binding development. The highback worked (and still works) as a lever, making it easier to hold the rear edge and improve board control. Following highback pioneers Jeff Grell and Louis Forney, other companies quickly followed suit. The widespread use of highbacks began in 1984. Burton equipped all boards with highbacks in 1984/85.

18. In 1985, Burton introduced one-piece highback bindings with Fastex fasteners. These bindings were the first bindings on the market to combine a highback and a solid base.

20. A year later, Burton developers used straps similar to modern ones in the fastenings and added a third strap in the shin area. Additional highback pads were also offered for such mounts.

22. These bindings from SnowTech have a folding highback. This was done to simplify the storage and transportation of snowboards. This model is also interesting with its tool-free highback adjustment system.

24. In the early 1990s, so-called “Cant Kits” appeared. They were metal and plastic wedges located under the back of the mount to align the rider with the board.

26. In 1990, Burton introduced Flex bindings. These fastenings combine the best features of strap and rigid fastenings. They featured a third strap and a “FLAD” highback (Forward Lean Adjuster, that is, adjusting the inclination of the highback), which, using a fastener, fixed the highback to the base with the required angle of inclination. Thanks to this highback shape, board control was improved. Flex mounts were produced until 1998.

28. In 1995, baseless mounts, which appeared under the influence of skateboarding, flourished and in 1997 rested in peace. The main idea of ​​these bindings is that if you remove the base, you can “feel” the board better.

29. In 1996, Shimano and Switch introduced step-in bindings. The simplicity and convenience of this system prophesied the death of the strap-on. But because of the patent, other binding manufacturers were unable to develop bindings with two clamps (at the toe and heel). Therefore, many companies began to produce alternative step-in fastenings with a lock in the middle of the foot. Companies invested tens of thousands of dollars in development and advertising, and their efforts subsequently resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on lawsuits.

31. In the mid-1990s, the development of fastenings began to slow down. The next big step was ratchets, which made it easier and more accurate to adjust the straps. Almost all manufacturers started producing these mounts, making all mounts almost the same. Also in this period it is worth noting the appearance of base sheathing, improvement of strap sheathing and the development of various systems for adjusting fasteners without tools.

33. Palmer Snowboards introduced the Power Link system at ISPO in 2000. A two-piece backing inserted between the board and the fastenings. This padding lifted the rider off the board, allowing for narrow, responsive boards without getting their feet caught in the snow.

35. Burton Lexa bindings were the first specifically designed for women. They didn't adjust well, but the sizes were woman-only.

Snowboard (sports equipment)

Snowboard with soft bindings

The first snowboards did not have good handling, which led to their use being banned in many ski resorts of the time. For this reason, for many years there was mutual hostility between skiers and snowboarders. By 1985, only 7% of resorts in the United States allowed snowboarders on their slopes, about the same in Europe. Along with the improvement of equipment and skating techniques, this figure increased. By 1990, most major resorts had a separate snowboarding slope. Today, approximately 97% of resorts in North America and Europe allow snowboarding, and about half of them have parks and halfpipes.

The highest number of snowboarders - about 6.6 million - was recorded in 2004. By 2008, this number had dropped to 5.1 million due to low snow winters and the so-called “return of skis,” a process particularly characteristic of Europe. The average age of snowboarders is from 18 to 24 years; women make up about 25% of the total.

Snowboarding equipment

Types of boards

A modern snowboard is a high-tech product, a fusion of technologies and based on modern composite materials, and therefore lightweight and durable. Typically, the internal structure of a snowboard is " sandwich", that is, a multilayer structure made of carbon fiber, fiberglass and wood, or the so-called. " cap"(It is possible to find a hybrid structure). The sliding surface is made mainly of polyethylene with special additives to reduce friction. The top of the snowboard has a protective coating and pattern. There are three main (not counting intermediate and exotic) types of snowboards:

• Hard (Alpine). Directional, long and narrow boards with a pronounced nose and tail. Can only be used with rigid bindings and rigid boots. Designed for both sports disciplines (parallel slalom, parallel giant slalom, snowboardcross) and carving. This type of board is characterized by maximum speeds, precise reactions and demands on skills and physical preparation. Slalom boards are shorter and have a smaller radius, carving (extreme carving) boards have a larger length and radius and specific torsional rigidity.
• Freeride. Directional boards for riding in virgin soil. As a rule, they have a considerable length, a wide nose and lugs shifted towards the tail. Boards of this type are used with both soft and hard setups. A striking representative of this type of boards are swallow tails. swallow-tail, russian dovetail) - long boards with a wide nose and tail, divided into two parts like the tail of a swallow. These boards are characterized by an increased sliding area, maximum effective edge length and the ability to “float” in the snow.
• Soft: The most common type of boards. There are many varieties of this type, designed for the disciplines of freestyle, jibbing and universal (All-Mountain) for the backcountry. As a rule, boards of these types are short in length, have weak directionality or have no directionality (Twin-tip), and low rigidity. Jibbing boards are made without edges. Freestyle boards can be intended for its individual varieties: big air, halfpipe, snowboard park, etc.

For a beginner snowboarder, a softer snowboard is suitable. It more easily forgives mistakes when riding - with a “soft” board it is easier to learn to ride. However, upon reaching a certain level, you can “fall asleep” on such a board, and then, willy-nilly, you will want higher speeds and steep turns.

Types of snowboard deflections

Boots

There are two main types of snowboarding boots: hard and soft. Hard boots are a construction of an outer plastic boot and a soft inner part (that is, almost a complete analogue of ski boots), while soft boots differ in that the outer boot has little rigidity.

Fastenings

The leg mounts are installed on special threaded recesses called “ mortgages" The number of such recesses can be from 2 or more per mount, which provides the necessary adjustment for a specific riding style and for convenience. There are two main types of bindings, which differ in the way the boot is secured and the mechanics.

• Soft bindings, consisting of a platform attached to the snowboard and special straps with latches; any soft boots are suitable for this type of binding.
• Rigid fastenings. Available with automatic latch ( step-in- the boss on the toe of the boot clings to the bracket on the mount, and the heel, equipped with movable pins, is fixed in the holes in the back of the mount) and with a cap element ( frogs- the tide on the heel of the boot clings to the bracket on the mount, and a movable element is placed on the toe of the boot, fixing the final position). Only special hard plastic boots are suitable for rigid bindings.

Rack

It is generally accepted to divide athletes into “regulars”. regular- regular), placing the left leg forward, and “goofy” (eng. goofy- stupid), placing the right hand forward, as in skateboarding. This terminology, however, does not mean that one stance is correct and the other is not, or even that there are generally more “regulars” than “goofies.” Each athlete finds a stance that suits him best over time; some do not consider themselves to be either one or the other and constantly change stances.

The stance is determined by the angle of rotation of the bindings relative to the length of the snowboard. A right angle relative to the length of the board is taken to be zero degrees. Positive angles are those at which the toe is turned in the direction of movement; if the toe is turned in the opposite direction, the angle is considered negative. The front leg is usually not placed at a negative angle, as this causes the rider to move backwards. The back foot can be placed at either a positive or negative angle, depending on the athlete's goal. The snowboarder chooses the angles of rotation of the bindings in accordance with the task and based on personal preferences.

• Straight The stance is popular among beginners who have not yet decided which way to go, riders or those who want to have a rigid stance when riding in forward and reverse directions. Both legs are placed across the board, that is, the angles are set to approximately 0°. Of course, in practice, these angles are rarely zero, due to the structural features of the legs, which, in turn, leads to an automatic transition to a stance duck foot. It is also necessary to remember that excessively hanging the toes of the boots over the edges of the board will inevitably lead to touching the slope, which usually entails a fall.
• Duck stand or Duck foot(English) Duck stance, Duck foot) is useful for tricks because it assumes the rider's feet are symmetrical relative to the center of the board. In general, the legs in this stance are not necessarily turned to the same angle. The back leg simply needs to be turned out at an angle less than zero. Thus, the rider can change direction at any time. This change of stance during movement is called a feint (sometimes “interception”). fakie, switch- feint, switch).
• Directed suitable in most cases, the front leg is turned at an angle of approximately 15° to 21°, and the rear leg at an angle of 0° to 10°. This stance is usually recommended by instructors; The stability of such a stance is also noted in some martial arts. On the other hand, the athlete’s balance is significantly different when riding in a stance opposite to the main one. This can be compensated for by learning to ride backwards in this stance, or by choosing a different stance, such as a flat or straight stance.
• Carving rack, strongly directed, also sometimes alpine(tracing paper from English) alpine- alpine, alpine) the front leg is turned at an angle of up to 90°, the back leg is usually slightly less. Used by athletes and on hard equipment.

It should be remembered that the given angles are not standardized in any way, and the rider himself, over time, selects the angles for each of the possible stances.

Snowboard bindings are an integral part of winter equipment for every rider. The bindings directly connect you to the snowboard and transfer all muscle movements to the board. If your snowboard bindings are well matched to your board and riding style, you will have a more interesting riding experience.

Riding style

It's important to choose snowboard bindings that suit your riding style. Snowboard bindings fit into three general riding styles. You should choose the correct binding flex based on both your riding style and the flex of your boots.

It would be pointless to choose hard bindings with soft boots or vice versa. For best riding results, make sure the stiffness of your bindings is directly related to the stiffness of your boots.

Stiffness rating

Most manufacturers rate firmness from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being very stiff. As a rule, the hardness rating is understood as follows: 1-2 (soft), 3-5 (medium), 6-8 (hard), and 9-10 (very hard). Ratings and stiffness may vary depending on the fixture and its materials. Three materials are usually used as a base: metal, plastic or composite.

Park or freestyle

Riders who spend most of their time in parkland performing tricks are considered freestylers. Softer snowboard bindings are suitable for this style of riding, which give the rider the opportunity to make mistakes and land more softly.

Allmountain

Freeride

This category includes sheer and deep snow and high speeds in desolate, difficult terrain. Such bindings should be more rigid for better responsiveness and energy transfer to the snowboard when moving quickly.

Types of fastenings

Snowboard bindings fall into 2 main categories:

Strap-in fastenings

This is the most common type of fastening. They typically use two straps (one above or across the toe and one across the ankle). Strap-in bindings offer different options for support, cushioning and other adjustments. They are suitable for all riding styles and conditions.

Quick Release Fasteners (REAR-ENTRY)

Such fastenings are also called speed entray (Speed ​​Entry literally: quick entry). They have a hinged highback that drops down like a bridge, allowing you to simply step into the bindings. In addition, the hinged back allows for quick and easy release from bindings. So your skiing friends won't have to wait for you anymore. Quick-release bindings are usually chosen by riders who prefer comfort.

Snowboard binding design

Snowboard bindings consist of several components:

Straps

Bottom cap strap. This strap sits on the front of the boot, wrapping around it for comfort and stability. It helps align your foot for better heel placement, which transfers more power to the board.

Traditional bottom strap. This strap is usually found at the bottom of the bindings and simply holds your boot in place. It cannot be used as a cap strap.

Hybrid bottom strap. This strap can be used traditionally over the legs or angled forward for use as a cap strap.

Upper strap This strap is large enough to fit securely around your foot. Without it, the fastenings would not hold.

One-component strap. Often found on modern and quick-release fasteners. This is one complete strap that covers your boot at the bottom of the toes and along the ankle.

Highbacks (rear walls)

• The highback is a vertical plate that runs from the heel to the bottom of the shin.
• It controls the edges of your board, which are located at the heel.
• Stiff and high highbacks are designed for better control and speed.
• Softer and shorter highbacks are designed for park riders and beginners looking for flexibility and lightness.
• Custom highbacks allow you to easily adjust the position of the bindings on the fly, depending on your riding location and preferences.
• Backless bindings provide a feeling closer to ice skating. Ankle mobility increases and board control decreases.

Base

• This is the main link between the bindings and the snowboard.
• Bases are made of various materials with different ratios of strength and rigidity. The base of the higher bindings is made of strong materials that optimize board rigidity, energy transfer and durability.
• Cushioning in the base ensures comfort and proper energy transfer.
• Canting is a slight tilt of the leg that causes your knee to lean slightly forward for a more natural stance.

Buckley

Buckle is a mechanism that fastens the belt to the strap, while simultaneously adjusting the degree of compression of the boot. Its main characteristic is strength. That's why good buckles are made of aluminum.

It should also be large enough so as not to cause problems when fastened with a glove or mitten and have a smooth movement, which provides a certain guarantee of further performance.

Fitment and compatibility with snowboard boots

For snowboard bindings you will find the following sizes: small S/M, medium M/L and large L/XL. Finding the correct size bindings for your boots is essential, so always check the manufacturer's binding size chart to see which binding size you require.

And even after looking at sizing charts, it's still important to check that the bindings are the right size for your boots. Do this by placing your boot in the bindings as if you were about to buckle it in: the boots should not stick out too much from the bindings, and the straps should not be too tight or loose. If the strap does not reach the buckle, it may need to be adjusted.

The straps on the mounts are usually adjustable on both sides. The heel should fit snugly against the bindings. Properly selected bindings should allow the boot to bend, but not dangle from side to side. If you have comfortable boots, and the bindings securely cover them without additional effort, then you have chosen everything correctly.

Snowboard compatibility

Just like snowboards, bindings come with a variety of mounting options. Snowboards have many mounting options and different types of mountings. Most models are compatible with each other, but it's best to make sure you don't buy the wrong set.

Luckily, most brands these days make universal discs or make multiple discs for different types of bindings, such as Burton's The Channel System.

Mortgages 2X4 and 4X4

• Standard mounting platform.
• The difference is the vertical distance (centimeters) between the bolt holes.

3D embeds (BURTON)

Compatible with most known holes, but rack options are more limited.

THE CHANNEL (BURTON) system

• 2 rails are used instead of standard mortgages.
• The best option is to buy custom EST mounts made by Burton. EST bindings allow the rider's feet to be in close contact with the board for increased sensitivity. This mounting system offers a wide variety of rack options.
• Burton offers a special disc for non-EST bindings to use with The Channel system.

Cost of fastenings

Alas, good snowboard bindings from a decent manufacturer cannot be cheap. The price of fastenings is affected by:

• materials from which the base is made;
• the associated stiffness of the crepe;
• associated shock-absorbing characteristics;
• number of settings;
• technology and bells and whistles;
• brand.

The more bells and whistles a mount has that makes the rider’s life easier and settings, the more expensive they are. When purchasing mounts, it is important to understand what you need. How and where are you going to ride, how often, how important are these or those joys and are you willing to pay for them.

For beginners, simpler mounts are quite suitable, but for those with experience, it’s time to think about more expensive models. You can get acquainted with the full range of snowboard bindings and choose the right ones in our catalog.

What is a snowboard? This is a board designed so that an athlete can ride it down a slope or mountain. But you can ride in different ways, and therefore the design and materials of the snowboard are very diverse, but at the same time, they all have a sliding base on one side and foot bindings on the other. Also, all boards have a metal edge along the edge, with which the athlete controls this sports equipment.

But snowboarding did not appear immediately in the form in which we know it today. It has come a long way, and the history of snowboarding itself is worth learning about.

1929

The history of snowboarding began in the 29th year of the last century, which was made by a certain Jack Burchet. The unusual thing about this event was that instead of the usual skis, he used a wooden sheet, which he controlled with a rope. No one knows why he did this, and his decision to register this action leaves even more questions.

1939

This year, Vern Wiklund showed the world a new invention, which he called the “bunker”. It consisted of a board with pads for the legs. There were also belts that acted as foot fastenings, and the board itself was made of oak and had a significant bend. A rope was attached to the bow of this structure, which, like reins, could be used to control the “bunker.” After the first model, 4 more modifications followed, which, unfortunately, did not make it into mass production. Their role was limited to entertaining descents for the inventor and his friends.

1963

Tom Sims, a young student at an American school, designed and defended a project for a board for descending snowy slopes, which was called a “skiboard.”

1965

A few years later, another step was taken towards creating a real snowboard. This year, in an attempt to spice up his daughter's holiday, Sherman Poppen connected ski runners and installed a binding with a rope in front. He even gave his creation a name - “snurfer”. The father’s efforts were not in vain; the daughter was delighted and hurried to show it to her friends. They, too, were amazed at the fun they had while riding a snurfer, and the hobby began to spread among young people. And Poppen decided to patent the invention and soon gave the right to produce “snurfers” to the Brunswick company.

The decision was more than successful, because in less than a year the athletes bought about 500,000 boards. In the same year, the first “snurfer” competitions were held, which were organized by Brunswick in order to generate sales.

1970

But the direct ancestor of the snowboard was not the snurfer. History has prepared this role for the invention of Dimitri Milovich - a surf-shaped board, which had traces of belonging to ski slalom and metal edgings along the edges.

1972

Bob Webber receives a patent for a "skiboard" he invented himself.

1975

Dimitri Milovich was able to organize mass production of snowboards. The production facility was located in Utah, and boards bearing the Winterstick logo were produced here. By that time, he abandoned metal edges, because Milovich practiced in virgin lands, where edges were simply not needed. He also patented the dovetail snowboard shape.

1976

Milovich realized that the use of metal edges was necessary and received a patent for a board with them.

1977

Jack Barton began creating a snowboard that would later be named after him, and Bob Webber used a polyethylene base for a board that was called the "Yellow Banana". The banana idea was taken up and developed by Tommy Sims, who supplied him with a skateboarding deck. The end of this year saw Sims launch skiboards.

That same year, inventor Mike Olsen completed the creation of his version of a snowboard, which he improved over the next 7 years - all the time he studied in college. Upon graduation, he wasted no time in opening the GNU company, which specialized in the production of snowboards.

1979

At the now regular competitions among snurfers, Jack Barton applied to participate on his own sports equipment, which was a board with rubber fastenings. At first the organizers did not allow him, but many participants wanted to compete with Barton and their voice broke the stubbornness of the competition organizers.

The same championship will remain in history for the fact that the first tricks on a snowboard were performed there. A certain Paul Graves, a professional rider from the Snurfer company, performed 4 full rotations, and at the end of the descent he dropped to one knee and incredibly impressively jumped off the board, which aroused the admiration of the audience.

The first halfpipe was built in '79, and this U-shaped tube caused a furor among journalists, who first announced the birth of the sport of snowboarding.

1980

At that time, developments in the field of snowboarding were carried out in parallel by two companies - Burton and Winterstick. And they led to the idea of ​​using ski production technology in the development.

1982

Paul Graves, mentioned above, establishes the first snowboarding championship. The name chosen for it was quite original - “Surface”, and the competitions themselves took place in slalom and. The winner of this event was Tommy Sims, who won quite enchantingly - having taken the first prize, he crossed the finish line, crashed into the limiter and broke his finger. Well, Doug Barton turned out to be the best in terms of total indicators.

1983

At this time, snowboard bindings with a high back appeared. The invention was patented by Jeff Grell and Louis Fornier.

1985

Three significant events occurred in 1985. The first is the final focus on alpine skiing by the largest companies Sims and Burton. They abandoned surf-oriented boards and began equipping snowboards with metal edges. Secondly, a freestyle board with a rounded tail saw the light of day. Third, the first carving board appeared, released by GNU.

And the first magazine entirely dedicated to snowboarding was published.

1986

European snowboarding was born. At this time, the first competitions took place in Switzerland, the film “The Snow of Judgment” was released, full of daring on the boards.

1994

A triumphant hour for snowboarding - from now on it has become a discipline of the Olympic Games.

1998

Since 1998, snowboarders have been assigned the role of “bad guys,” and all because of the scandal surrounding Olympic champion Ross Rebagliati. Traces of marijuana use were found in his blood. However, they were weak and the athlete got out of it, explaining by accidentally inhaling smoke at a party.

year 2000

In the USA, snowboarding is becoming the most popular sport. It is ahead of alpine skiing in terms of the growth rate of adherents, which amounted to 51% per year versus 6%. The total number of snowboarders in the United States was approximately 7 million. In the same year, the first boards began to appear in the CIS.

Conclusion

Snowboarding is an exciting activity that, in just under a hundred years, has grown from children's entertainment to an Olympic sport. The history of snowboarding has never known any falls; riding techniques and equipment have been continuously improved and continue to improve.

Snowboard bindings are an important piece of equipment that is responsible for transmitting the force you apply while controlling the board. Control over the board on the slope and ease of edging depend on their quality, manufacturability, rigidity, and settings.

There are several types of snowboard bindings: step in(no longer produced) hard(for high-speed descent on hard directional boards and plastic boots) and soft, the most popular today.

What does the mount consist of:

- mounting base, including a heel arch and a dial for setting the degree,

- highback with tilt adjustment,

Top and bottom straps, straps and clips.

The mount clips face outward, so you can easily distinguish the right mount from the left.

Take a look at the disk, it shows degrees from 0 in both directions. Additional holes in the disk are designed to adjust the position of the fasteners forward and backward.

It is necessary to understand the structure of fastenings, first of all, because the latest technologies and developments are devoted specifically to them. The battle for the title of the best today involves fastenings with the lowest weight, a quick fastening system and made from the most durable materials.

It is thanks to the design of the binding structure and the selection of the most advanced materials that manufacturers manage to take leading positions and make your skating comfortable and progressive.

Materials

Real space technologies are used in the production of materials for fastenings. Today, the main materials for the best fasteners are carbon, fiberglass, nylon, various aluminum alloys (which greatly enhance their strength), as well as premium steel for fastening parts such as screws. Today these are the strongest and lightest materials. However, the desire to purchase 100% carbon bindings is unlikely to end in success for your wallet. Choose reinforcement exactly where it's needed most, namely in the highback, heel arch and base. Balance the level of bindings with your level of skiing.

Modern technologies

Asymmetrical highback

This design of highbacks serves for the best contact between the boot and the binding, which means better control and energy transfer. A highback with such a structure perfectly fixes the leg exactly where it is needed. Recommended by manufacturers for wide stances, and therefore more suitable for freestyle or jibbing.

By the way, as a rule, a highback with this design has a lightweight design, which has a positive effect on the overall weight of the mounts.

Dead zones

The place where the bindings attach to the snowboard is the point where you feel the board the worst and the snowboard flexes the worst. Of course, if you are just starting to ride, you are unlikely to be able to feel it. However, as you improve your riding level, you will understand what exactly these dead zones are called.

In their quest for perfection, fastener manufacturers are trying to reduce the area of ​​these areas. This is achieved by reducing the area of ​​the base; different manufacturers have different patented methods. Some reduce the area of ​​the discs, others adapt the mounting base for rocker boards.

Also, in our opinion, an excellent solution is to mount special shock-absorbing cushions into the base. They, like ABS, protect you during particularly hard landings and significantly reduce vibration levels.

Straps

The straps don't just connect your leg to the anchor base. In modern bindings, straps, both upper and lower, do this in a clever way. They are made of a material that remembers the shape of the boot and simplifies the process of fastening. In addition, the surface of the straps is capable of excellent energy distribution. As a result, even with the strongest fixation, the leg will not be pinched.
Most of the design decisions were focused on the bottom strap design. So, today there are several variations.

Strap with traditional fixation over the boot. This type of fastening can be found from all manufacturers. The advantages of such a system are stability, good fixation and the least risk of snow getting under the strap itself.

A popular option for the lower strap is cap strap. Such a strap, according to manufacturers, better fixes the foot in the binding, pressing the boot along the length, which is very important when skating off-piste or in the park. However, it is important to perfectly fit the strap to the boot, otherwise snow will get in, the strap will slide down and the fixation will loosen.

The best, in our opinion, technological solution in lower strap designs is multi strap. This means that you can attach it in two positions, at your discretion.

Riding style

One of the important parameters is the riding style for which you should choose bindings. There is no clear gradation in style among manufacturers, but there are some similarities.

- Technical Freestyle/Freeride Bindings can be called the toughest among all existing on the market. Indeed, for skiing in deep snow or strong amplitude tricks on springboards, you need the most reliable fixation.

- Jibbing Bindings, on the contrary, are softer.
- All mountain bindings– the most versatile and practically suitable for any type of riding.

Here it is worth talking separately about Flow mounts. The fastening system of this company is different from all other manufacturers. This Step-in-Go system. So, instead of two straps, there is a single strap that covers the boot quite comfortably. The highback also reclines back, making it easier to buckle up. There are different opinions about the pros and cons of such a system. An undeniable advantage is the speed and ease of insertion.

Installation of fasteners

So, you have already found the perfect pair for yourself. Now the question of installing a mount on a snowboard is relevant. You can easily do this yourself.

Please note that the board must fit the fastenings; there may be inconsistencies. For example, Burton makes boards with embeds that are only suitable for fastenings from the same company, so you need to pay attention to this. Burton has a special system of EST embeds, although not on all boards, but you have to be careful. As a last resort, there are special adapters for them for regular crepes, but these are unnecessary expenses and inconveniences. And it should be noted that Burton bindings with the EST system are only suitable for snowboards with the same system. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. Basically, manufacturers strive to make bindings that would fit absolutely any snowboard.

Rack

Which foot forward do you skate?

There is a stand "regular" - left foot forward, "goofy" - right. It is difficult for beginners to decide from the very beginning. You will understand your stance during the skating process, which foot forward will be comfortable for you to ride. But there is a proven way to find out this at home, which works 99%. Ask to be pushed in the back. Whichever leg you put forward is the leading one. Check several times to confirm the result.

So, for example, you are a goofy. Your right foot is in front. That is, you place the right mount closer to the nose of the snowboard.

Why so many mortgages?

To adjust the width of the stand. For some, a wide stance is more comfortable, especially in freestyle, while for others, on the contrary, a narrow stance is more convenient. To begin with, let's install a universal middle rack and select the middle mortgages.

When installing bindings, once you've decided on your stance, you need to consider your lead foot.

The choice of mounting angles is an important aspect

To do this, take a closer look at the degree scale indicated on the mounts and listen to your feelings. On average, the rotation angle of the mount for the rear leg is about 10 degrees, for the front leg - 15-18 degrees, but this is a matter of taste and style of the rider. Many people prefer the so-called duck stance with the same angle for the back and front legs, which is especially good in the park when skating in switch (not in your own direction).

Today, there is a trend among board and binding manufacturers to move the binding holes back, which allows the board to ride more smoothly. In addition, the offset mount makes it easier to move through the snow without sinking or getting bogged down - ideal for skiing in deep snow.

Which mounts should I buy?

The main point when buying bindings is their compatibility with your boots.

Firstly, boots and bindings must fit properly. Place your boot into the binding and tighten the straps. pay attention to sock, it should not stick out much or, conversely, sink into the mount. Most models have a gas pedal that can be adjusted forward or backward depending on the size of your boot.

Please also note the length of the straps, they should not be too long or too short. There should be no situations where the boot dangles and the length of the strap is too long to secure it, or, conversely, the boot is difficult to fasten.

Secondly, check the compatibility of components. Snap your boot into the binding and take a close look. The heel should be recessed into the corner of the binding, while the sole of the boot should be level on the base, and the back should fit snugly against the highback of the binding.

Note. When you fasten into the fastenings, do not step on the straps or straps, you can break them. When transporting, assemble the highback and close the straps to prevent damage to the straps.

If you buy equipment from the same brand or a ready-made set, you can be sure that everything will fit and work as it should, and you will not feel discomfort when riding.

When choosing fasteners, do not forget to pay attention to appearance. Today, colors and designs vary greatly, ranging from fluorescent brights to dark military colors. In addition, some manufacturers include in their collections bindings designed by famous artists, illustrators or riders themselves. But don’t forget: whatever the design of the bindings, it should reflect your personality on the slope.