The Best All Mountain Freeride Bindings for 2023

1. Burton Genesis EST

The Burton Genesis EST is a top-tier binding designed for the all-mountain rider. It's packed with features that make it stand out. However, it does have some limitations. Since it's the EST version, it's only compatible with Burton Channel boards. Also, the toe strap, despite its high-quality ratchets, tends to come undone quite often.

Pros

  • Fully adjustable design to tweak it to your wishes.
  • High-quality Double Take buckles for lightning-fast tightening.
  • Gel cushioning absorbs impact better than many other models.

Cons

  • Not compatible with other snowboard brands.
  • Toe strap can come undone frequently.
If you’re looking for an outstanding binding and don’t mind spending the money, the Burton Genesis EST is definitely your choice.

2. Union Strata

The Union Strata bindings are perfect for those who love to ride the park, surf the powder, and enjoy freestyle snowboarding. These bindings are Union's top choice for park and freestyle riding. The Strata's soft and surfy flex feels like an extension of your board, giving you maximum control and creativity during grabs, spins, and jibs.

  • Shock-absorbing design for comfort
  • Great for all-mountain cruising
  • Ideal for a powder board
Feel the true flex of your snowboard come alive with the Union Strata. These bindings offer a playful and effortless ride on any terrain. Join the countless riders who swear by them and experience the perfect blend of freestyle performance and comfortable versatility.

3. Union Atlas

The Union Atlas bindings are a top choice for all-mountain freeride enthusiasts. Built for performance, these bindings offer a perfect blend of comfort and durability.

  • Flex Rating: Medium to stiff, providing the right balance for various terrains.
  • Riding Category: Ideal for all-mountain and freeride adventures.
  • Availability: Sizes S, M, and L are in stock.
The Union Atlas bindings are a must-have for those looking to upgrade their snowboarding experience. Don't miss out on these essential upgrades for your snowboarding experience!

4. Flux XF

The Flux XF bindings are a top choice for all-mountain freeride enthusiasts. These bindings strike a perfect balance between responsiveness and manageability. With a medium-stiff flex rating of 7/10, they offer excellent carving and turning capabilities without being too stiff.

  • Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
  • Compatibility: 2x4, 4x4, Channel
  • Smart Rating Score: 93.1/100

The Flux XF bindings provide exceptional ankle support and are highly adjustable, making them suitable for various boot sizes. However, they do sacrifice some shock absorption, which might be a concern for riders with sensitive knees.

The Flux XF bindings wrap around your boots like a bear hug, offering great support and lightning-fast edge-to-edge response.

Despite the minimal cushioning under the baseplate, these bindings are comfortable and free from unwanted pressure points. The buckles on both straps ensure smooth entry and exit, and the integrated bottle opener is a fun bonus for après-ski relaxation.

5. Burton Malavita

The Burton Malavita bindings are a top choice for those who love freestyle riding. These bindings offer a medium flex, making them perfect for versatile riding styles. The highback and baseplate work together to give you excellent butterability, allowing you to fully utilize the board's flex.

  • Flex: Medium
  • Ability Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Pros: The binding flexes with your board, making it feel softer.
  • Cons: Limited micro-adjustability in stance width.
The Burton Malavita is one of the best medium flex snowboard bindings for versatile riding. It excels in comfort and responsiveness, making it ideal for various riding styles.

6. Flow NX2 Fusion

The Flow NX2 Fusion bindings are a top pick for those who crave both performance and comfort. These bindings are known for their quick entry and exit, thanks to Flow's rear-entry system. The highback offers a great balance between stiffness and support, giving you plenty of lateral flex and freedom of movement.

  • Flex: Stiff
  • Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced
  • Pros: Quick entry and exit, reduced weight
  • Cons: Less ankle support due to lower strap

The aluminum alloy base makes these bindings lighter and stiffer, perfect for all-mountain versatility. Flow's famous Set-it and Forget-it power strap eliminates pressure points, making for a more comfortable ride.

If you're looking for a high-performance binding with the comfort that only a Flow binding can offer, the NX2 Fusion is an excellent choice.

7. Union Flite Pro

Soar through your snowboarding progression with the Union Flite Pro binding. This featherweight champion is the lightest men's binding on the market, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate riders who crave comfort and ease of learning. Imagine effortlessly maneuvering around the slopes with minimal weight holding you back. The Flite Pro's soft flex is ideal for developing riders, allowing you to hone your skills and build confidence with every turn. As you progress, the Flite Pro can keep up. Take your riding to the park and experience freestyle fun with a binding that moves with you, not against you. The soft flex allows for playful tricks and easy landings, making learning new maneuvers a breeze. So grab a pair of Union Flite Pro bindings and unlock the freedom of lightweight performance.

8. Burton Escapade

The Burton Escapade is our top pick for a women-specific binding. It offers a medium flex that's perfect for advanced to expert riders. This binding is ideal for cruising or slashing some powder.

The nylon composite baseplate features a canted, full-bed cushioning for amazing shock absorption and comfort. The Kickback Hammock in the highback adds to your overall boot support, giving you a surfy feel, even in choppy terrain.

The straps are a bit stiffer than most, but you'll get used to it. Burton's Double Take ratchet system ensures your strap stays tight with less wear on the teeth.

Although it's not the most affordable binding, you'll definitely get a product that will have you enjoying the mountain for years to come.

9. Salomon Highlander

The Salomon Highlander is a standout in the all-mountain freeride category. This binding excels at hard, deep carves at speed but remains manageable at slower speeds. With a medium-stiff flex rating of 7/10, it offers a great balance between responsiveness and comfort.

  • Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
  • Compatibility: 2x4, 4x4, Channel
  • Smart Rating Score: 85.1/100

Key Features

  • Excellent board feel, thanks to the flexible heel loop
  • Great combination of comfort and responsiveness
  • High marks in carving and slow speed response
The Salomon Highlander is perfect for riders who want a binding that can handle both high-speed carves and more relaxed cruising. Its flexible heel loop and overall design make it a versatile choice for various terrains.

10. Union Force

The Union Force is a true workhorse in the world of snowboard bindings. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this binding has stood the test of time with minimal changes. It's the binding of the people, designed to work season after season.

  • Durability: Built to last, the Union Force can handle all kinds of riding conditions.
  • Versatility: Suitable for 90% of all-mountain riders, making it a go-to choice for many.
  • Mid-Flex: Offers a balanced flex that's not too stiff or too soft.
If you're looking for a binding that just works, the Union Force is your best bet. Reliable and consistent, it's the VW Golf of snowboard bindings.

Available in sizes S, M, L, and XL, the Union Force is ready to hit the slopes with you.

Union Force bindings are a game-changer for snowboarders. They offer unmatched performance and comfort, making your ride smoother and more enjoyable. Want to learn more about how these bindings can enhance your snowboarding experience? Check out our detailed guides and tips on our website.

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