Foreword - In recent winters, new binding systems have been the talk of the town, and increasingly seen on the feet of many snowboarders on the mountain. But are these new systems any good, and who are they actually right for? Your friendly snowboard enlightenment channel attempts to shed some light on the murky world of the binding market.
Let's start with a historical recap. You remember who Shaun Palmer is, and your bedroom was adorned with posters of Terje Haakonson and Craig Kelly, and you watched your first snowboard movies on VHS? Then you probably don't have a very high opinion of step-in bindings. After all, step-in bindings were already around in the '90s. Hard, clunky boots. Many incompatible systems; boots from manufacturer X didn't fit bindings from manufacturer Y. The fit of these super-stiff boots was a nightmare and only suitable for carving enthusiasts and those switching from hard boots. But wait, snowboarding is all about freedom, flow, and fun – well, that's probably why the first step-in systems gradually disappeared into obscurity after the turn of the millennium, and even the better of the bad systems can now only be found secondhand on classifieds websites.
The open-boot binding systems from Flow, SP, and the K2 Cinch have survived – for a long time, they were the only option for a bit more comfort on the slopes, even if they had a few minor issues. But these systems had a loyal following. And actually, the idea isn't bad! Who hasn't experienced it: the annoying squatting down in the snow to close the bindings, cold fingers while strapping in, and your friends have already taken off without you. This is precisely where step-in and fast-entry systems come into play. They promise more comfort, less time wasted, and still full performance. ...and that's why the idea has been making a comeback for several years now. Today, the systems are more sophisticated, lighter, and offer genuine riding enjoyment. This development shows that comfort no longer has to come at the expense of control, and there's something for every snowboarder starting this season. But enough talk, let's get into the details, with all the advantages and disadvantages of the systems.
Burton, Nitro, Flux & Union Step-On
These brands all partner with Burton's Step-On system: boots and bindings are perfectly matched. Getting in is lightning fast, and the connection is secure. Nitro and Union offer their own versions with different flex options. There are also boots from Burton, Nitro, and DC, and since Union introduced a new boot and Step-On binding this winter, we can probably expect a Step-On model from them soon as well. I think it's obvious to everyone that Burton will present further partners with the Step-On system in the future; you don't need to be a prophet to see that!
Per:
✔ Extremely quick start
✔ Firm hold
✔ Ideal for piste skiersContra:
✖ Special boots required
✖ Less flexible in boat choice
Love Snowboarding's opinion : Until this season, Love Snowboarding didn't carry StepOn bindings. I simply didn't like the Burton binding, and after the EU currency conversion, I found the Flux too expensive. With the Nitro, a better Burton version is now available at the same price, and we all know that Union makes excellent bindings – you can find both models in the Love Snowboarding shop. Add to that Nitro boots, which always have a top-notch fit and, above all, an excellent first fit.
FASE Systems from 32, Rome, Jones & Bataleon
This is all about speed entry: highbacks fold back, boots slide in, and you're ready. Perfect for riders who like classic bindings but want to get going faster.
Per:
✔ No special boat required
✔ Faster than classic straps
✔ Proven technologyContra:
Love Snowboarding's opinion : Okay, the Katana AW FASE is the binding I'm currently using the most. And yet, I wouldn't be the grumpy old snowboarder I am if I didn't ask myself: does the FASE actually solve a problem I never had? I've always thought the Rome Katana was one of the best bindings on the market: top-notch straps, easy entry, and perfect adjustability... now I can get in and out even faster. Okay. Cool! Fast Entry is trending, and I also think it's great that my 2-strap binding has another feature for the same MSRP. Plus, it's only a few grams heavier. So yes, it's great that we have the FASE system – especially for everyone who still wants the performance of a 2-buckle binding. FASE is right for you!
✖ Not quite as fast as real step-ins
CLEW Step-In
The German company CLEW uses a hybrid system: You ride with normal boots and click in the bindings as usual. The advantage: full flexibility, no special boots required. Ideal for riders who want comfort without being tied down.
Per:
✔ Can be used with normal boots
✔ Quick start
✔ High flexibilityContra:
✖ Slightly more weight
✖ Higher price
Love Snowboarding's opinion : CLEW is polarizing. That's clear. Do you like hitting the park? Is jibbing your thing? Then this isn't the product for you – why? The base has comparatively poor damping, and because all the mechanics are housed in the highback, it flexes about as much as a tank hit by a mosquito. BUT, if you mainly ride on groomed slopes, are looking for a straightforward system that's become significantly lighter this winter? Do you have a good boot that fits you and want a fast-entry system? Then the CLEW might be for you. Plus, the CLEW has the highest release system, meaning you have to bend down the least. And it's made in good old Germany – Schlaaaand :)
Nidecker Supermatic – Easy entry without having to boot
The Supermatic is Nidecker's clever solution for those who want to get started quickly but don't want to give up their favorite boots. The system uses a hybrid step-in mechanism : foot in, highback closes automatically, and you're ready to go. No special boot is needed – that's the big difference compared to step-on systems.
Per:
✔ Freedom in boat choice
✔ Quick start without annoying readjustments
✔ Stable grip for slopes and side hitsContra:
✖ Slightly heavier than classic bindings
✖ The mechanism needs maintenance (remove snow and ice)Love snowboarding. Conclusion:
The Supermatic is an exciting middle ground between a classic binding and a step-on system. It offers genuine comfort without forcing you into a boot system – a plus for anyone who wants to remain flexible. However, the mechanics are somewhat more complex, and those looking for an ultralight setup won't be entirely satisfied. For us, it's a solid solution that takes easy entry to a new level without excessive hype. In fact, you could say the Supermatic is the legitimate successor to the Flow bindings.
K2 Cinch, SP & Flow – The classics among easy entry bindings
Yes, they're still around – the K2 and Flow systems have shaped the market for years. The principle is simple: fold the highback back, put your foot in, close it – done. For many riders, this was the most convenient solution for a long time, before step-on and hybrid systems like the Supermatic came along.
Per:
✔ Works with normal boots
✔ Solid technology, proven for years
✔ Often cheaper than new systemsContra:
✖ No longer quite “state of the art”
✖ Somewhat heavier and less precise than modern alternatives
✖ Entry not quite as fast as Step-On or SupermaticLove snowboarding. Conclusion:
For those seeking a straightforward system and not chasing the latest trends, the K2 Cinch or Flow are still perfectly adequate. They're robust, reliable, and more than sufficient for many riders. However, compared to Step-On or Supermatic, their technology is showing its age. A solid option in our opinion, but more suited to traditionalists.
K2 ClickerHB – The step-in for carving fans
The ClickerHB is K2's answer to the question: "How do I combine step-in with maximum board control?" The system utilizes a heel-toe mount technology that connects the boot directly to the binding – without a highback folding mechanism, without any fiddling. The result: an extremely direct power transfer that will especially appeal to carvers.
Why do you see the ClickerHB so rarely? Quite simply: K2 never managed to properly promote the system. Marketing? Non-existent. Yet the binding is technically top-notch and a real alternative to Step-On for skiers who love precise turns.
Per:
✔ Super direct power transmission – ideal for carving
✔ Quick start, no fussing around
✔ Works with special K2 boots (good fit, solid quality)Contra:
✖ Boots are mandatory – no other brands
✖ Limited distribution, therefore few testing opportunities
✖ Less well-known = more difficult to find spare partsLove snowboarding. Conclusion:
The ClickerHB is a hidden gem for anyone who values performance and doesn't follow the mainstream. For carving, it's one of the best step-in bindings on the market – precise, fast, and uncompromising. It's a shame K2 missed the boat on marketing; otherwise, the binding might have become more popular with this niche target group!
Of course, I've ridden all the systems for love snowboarding. Some more than others. But as you know, I enjoy testing, and I always say: only those who test can give good advice. Currently, I'm enjoying riding with the FASE binding, but that's mainly because I think the Rome Katana is an excellent binding. All the systems have their target audience. Are there too many right now? Yes, probably – but I think it's great that bindings are constantly being developed again. Will we perhaps no longer have one or two of these manufacturers on this list in 3-5 years? I'm quite sure of that too: yes. Not every system will survive. I'm even making predictions now ;) – but only live in the shop...you never know if I'll have to rewrite the whole blog otherwise.
See you at love snowboarding - Yours, Tobias
