There are three basic pieces of snowboarding equipment you need in order to hit the slopes: the board, the boots and the bindings. People put a lot of thought into choosing a snowboard based on their skill level, style of riding and even the board’s graphics. The boots are also a big decision based on fit, comfort and riding style.
Bindings are often an afterthought, even though they’re essential for connecting boots to board. If you’re in the market for budget snowboard bindings, these Salomon Rhythm Men’s Snowboard Bindings are a great option. They're designed by snowboarders to give riders a solid connection to their board.
Different bindings work well for different riding styles, just like choosing your board and boots.
Freestyle riders spend their time in the park, often performing tricks. They play in the halfpipe, go off jumps and grind along rails. This riding style calls for more flexible boots and bindings, which can give more spring in the jumps and help cushion the landings.
Freeride boarders enjoy both speed and challenging terrain. They need an instant response from their board, which they get from stiffer boots and bindings.
All-mountain riders split the difference between freestyle and freeride. They’ll go anywhere and try anything, so their bindings fall in between the extremes of freestyle and freeride. They’re not too soft or too stiff.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly equipment, most all-mountain equipment falls into a more affordable price range. Dedicated freestyle and freeride equipment is for more advanced riders and often comes at a higher price.
Beginners or just casual boarders will be able to find affordable all-mountain boards, boots and bindings. With this type of equipment, you should be able to go anywhere on the mountain. However, you. may not be able to perform at the same high levels as advanced riders with this generalized equipment.
First, you’ll need bindings that fit your boots. Check the manufacturer’s sizing chart for information on what kind of bindings you'll need. Next, make sure your bindings will attach to your board. The baseplate of your binding will attach, or bolt, to your board in different bolt patterns depending on the manufacturer. You’ll want to make sure the bolt pattern on your board accommodates the bolts on your binding.
You’ll most likely choose between one of three binding types:
Budget snowboard bindings for adults start at around $90. Mid-level bindings go for around $150-$250, and higher-end bindings for more advanced riders can cost up to $600 and more.
A. First, find a pair of comfortable snowboarding boots that fit well. Next, find a binding that grips the boot securely. You should still be able to flex your boot when it’s in the binding, but it shouldn’t shift or wobble. There shouldn’t be a lot of excess strap dangling from the binding, and the boot shouldn’t extend over the binding too far.
A. Manufacturers do make bindings meant specifically for women. However, every foot is different, and your goal should be to find the binding that best fits your boot. Whether that’s a men’s binding or a women’s binding really depends on your foot.
Salomon Rhythm Men’s Snowboard Bindings
What you need to know: These mid-stiffness, rear entry bindings are priced just at the border between budget and mid-level.
What you’ll love: Although labeled on Amazon as a men’s binding, Salomon also classifies their binding as unisex. Installation is easy with the included hardware, and it comes in nine different colors.
What you should consider: The price is on the higher side for budget snowboard bindings.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Salomon Pact Men's Snowboard Bindings
What you need to know: It’s hard to find a better price for a solid all-mountain snowboard binding.
What you’ll love: The binding uses a zone baseplate pattern that works with most boards. And the adjustable forward lean and medium flex makes this a nice all-around board for a mix of riding styles.
What you should consider: Most reviewers said that you get what you pay for with this binding.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
System LUX Women’s Rear-Entry Flow Style Snowboard Bindings
What you need to know: These quality snowboard bindings for women are a great value for the price.
What you’ll love: The rear-entry style bindings make them easy to put on and off. It has forward lean and sliding strap adjustments, which you can fine-tune to your boot and riding style. The high-density dampening pads at the heel and toe reduce chatter and shock while giving a cushioned ride.
What you should consider: The binding hole pattern is suitable for most boards but often won't fit in non-channel style Burton boards.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Michael Ray writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
