Top Snowboard Bindings of 2023: A Comprehensive Review

1. Burton Genesis EST

The Burton Genesis EST is a top-tier binding designed for the all-mountain freeride enthusiast. This binding is packed with features that make it stand out in 2023.

  • Flex: Stiff
  • Ability Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Pros: Fully adjustable design, high-quality Double Take buckles for quick tightening
  • Cons: Only compatible with Burton Channel boards, toe strap can come undone
If you're looking for an outstanding binding and don’t mind spending the money, the Burton Genesis EST is definitely your choice.

The highback consists of three parts: a stiffer outer frame for support, an inner Heel Hammock that fits snugly around your boot, and an internal spring system for added suspension. Combined, they provide a smooth ride while keeping your board very responsive.

Despite its high-quality ratchets, the toe strap can come undone quite often. However, the gel cushioning absorbs impact better than many other models, making it perfect for big jumps in the park or backcountry.

2. Union Strata

The Union Strata is a top choice for all-mountain riders who love to hit the park and carve up the slopes. This binding excels in park and freestyle riding thanks to its mid-flex design and excellent shock absorption features. The rubber footbed provides a super smooth ride, making it ideal for high-speed carving.

  • Flex: Medium
  • Ability Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Pros: Rubber footbed for smooth rides, canted footbed for joint comfort
  • Cons: Forward lean adjustment requires a screwdriver

The Strata's baseplate might not look soft, but it offers plenty of rubber cushioning to dampen chatter. This makes your ride softer without losing response time. The canted footbed also helps tweak your stance, making it easier on your joints.

The Union Strata is a well-rounded binding that offers comfort and performance, making it a great choice for any snowboarder looking to up their game.

3. Union Atlas

The Union Atlas bindings are a top choice for all-mountain riders. These bindings offer a perfect blend of comfort, adjustability, and performance.

  • Highback Flex: The highback is pretty stiff when pulled directly back, but it has a decent twist. This makes it responsive without being too rigid.
  • Binding to Boot Adjustability: The Atlas is one of the most adjustable bindings in Union's lineup. With features like an adjustable gas pedal/toe ramp and heel loop, any boot within the recommended size range will fit perfectly.
  • Comfort: The new, larger strap is comfortable and doesn't dig into your calves. The footbed is wide enough to prevent pressure points from the baseplate or heel loop.
  • Boot Support: The bigger ankle strap and toe strap work together to pull the boot into the heel loop, providing excellent support.
  • Turn Initiation/Response: The Atlas offers sharp turn initiation, making it easy to power through turns.
  • Shock Absorption: Excellent shock absorption, reducing the impact on your feet during rough rides.
The Union Atlas is a versatile binding that excels in various conditions, making it a reliable choice for any snowboarder.

If you're looking for a binding that combines comfort, adjustability, and performance, the Union Atlas is a fantastic option.

4. Flux XF

The Flux XF is a standout in the freeride category. This binding really wraps around the whole boot for excellent support. It feels like a bear hug for your feet, providing great ankle support and quick edge-to-edge responses. This makes it perfect for intermediate to advanced riders.

  • Flex: Medium/Stiff
  • Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced
  • Pros: Excellent boot support, smooth entry and exit
  • Cons: Almost no cushioning under the baseplate
Despite the lack of cushioning, the Flux XF performs exceptionally well in deep snow adventures. The fiber-mixed nylon highback allows for effortless carving and shredding through fresh powder. The buckles on both straps work smoothly, and the integrated bottle opener is a fun bonus.

Overall, the Flux XF is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable freeride binding with great support and responsiveness.

5. Burton Malavita

The Burton Malavita is a top choice for freestyle riders. With a medium flex, it offers a perfect balance between support and flexibility. This binding is designed for intermediate to advanced riders who want to push their limits in the park or on the slopes.

  • Pros:
  • Cons:
The Burton Malavita is on the softer end of the spectrum thanks to the highback being of medium stiffness and the baseplate bending along with the board. This will give you great butterability and you can really use the full flex of the board. Great for popping high ollies!

6. Flow NX2 Fusion

The Flow NX2 Fusion is a standout in the world of snowboard bindings. It's known for its quick entry and exit, making it a favorite among riders who value convenience. The highback offers a great balance between stiffness and support, providing plenty of lateral flex and freedom of movement. This results in a highly responsive binding that's perfect for all-mountain versatility.

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

The Union Flite Pro is our top pick for beginners and those on a budget. It's the most affordable option in our review, yet it packs all the essential features you need in a snowboard binding.

  • Flex: Soft
  • Ability Level: Beginner-Intermediate
  • Pros: Highly adjustable, fits any board and boot on the market
  • Cons: No tool-less adjustment; you need to bring a tool up the mountain

The 3-way adjustable aluminum heelcup ensures a perfect fit with any boot, providing direct energy transfer when switching edges. The softer baseplate offers a surfy feel and is forgiving, making it ideal for beginners or those looking for high butterability.

The symmetrical, minimal style highback, designed by snowboarding legend Gigi Rüf, allows for plenty of lateral freedom while still providing ample support.

The Union Flite Pro is an excellent choice for a beginner binding, freestyle binding, or lightweight powder board binding, especially considering its price!

8. Burton Escapade

The Burton Escapade is our top pick for a women-specific binding. It offers a medium flex and is perfect for advanced to expert riders. This binding is ideal for all-mountain adventures, whether you're cruising or slashing through powder.

Key Features

  • Full footbed cushioning: Provides a delightful, airy riding experience.
  • Nylon composite baseplate: Offers phenomenal shock absorption and comfort all day long.
  • Kickback Hammock in the highback: Adds to overall boot support and gives a surfy feel, even in choppy terrain.
  • Double Take ratchet system: Ensures your strap stays tight with less wear on the teeth.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
    • Full footbed cushioning for comfort.
    • Great boot support with the Kickback Hammock.
    • Durable Double Take ratchet system.
  • Cons:
    • Not the most responsive, but more forgiving.
    • Straps are stiffer than most, which takes getting used to.
Although it's not the most affordable binding out there, you'll definitely get a product that will have you enjoying the mountain for years to come.

Ideal For

  • Advanced to expert riders: Perfect for those who want a reliable and comfortable binding for all-mountain use.
  • Women-specific setup: Provides benefits in fit and performance by catering to the female body shape and riding style.

Where to Buy

  • Available at major retailers like Backcountry, Evo, and REI.

Whether you're looking for a new setup or upgrading your current gear, the Burton Escapade is a solid choice for any hard-charging female rider.

9. Burton Cartel EST

The Burton Cartel EST bindings are a solid choice for riders who want to tackle all types of terrain with confidence. These bindings offer a great mix of responsiveness and comfort, making them ideal for intermediate to advanced riders.

  • Responsiveness: The medium/stiff flex ensures quick and precise movements, perfect for navigating tight spaces like trees.
  • Comfort: Despite their stiffness, the ergonomic design of the straps provides plenty of comfort without putting excessive pressure on your boots.
  • Durability: These bindings are built to last, withstanding daily use without significant wear and tear.
If you're a die-hard Burton fan or just love these bindings, the extra cost could be well worth it.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks. The EST version is only compatible with Burton's channel system, limiting you to Burton boards. Additionally, the highback design can be a bit cumbersome when getting on lifts.

Overall, the Burton Cartel EST bindings are a reliable option for those who want to ride all over the mountain with confidence.

10. Burton Step On Escapade Re:Flex

The Burton Step On Escapade Re:Flex bindings are a game-changer for those who want to avoid the hassle of strapping in every time. These bindings are the easiest to get in and out of quickly. They use a unique system with three points to connect each boot to the board: two clips on the toes and one at the heel. Just snap your toes in first, then stomp down on your heel. No sitting or bending down required.

Once you try these bindings, you'll never want to go back to traditional ones. The convenience is unmatched, and the ride is smooth and responsive.

Key Features

  • Fast Entry and Exit: No more sitting down to strap in. Just step on and go.
  • Secure Fit: Despite the lack of straps, the bindings provide a secure and responsive ride.
  • Versatile Performance: Suitable for various riding styles, from cruising groomers to tackling moguls.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros:
    • Quick and easy to use
    • Comfortable and supportive
    • Great for all-mountain riding
  • Cons:
    • Only compatible with specific boots
    • Slight learning curve for getting out of the bindings

These bindings are perfect for those who want to spend more time riding and less time fiddling with their gear. If you're looking for a hassle-free experience, the Burton Step On Escapade Re:Flex is the way to go.

The Burton Step On Escapade Re:Flex bindings are perfect for snowboarders who want a quick and easy setup. These bindings offer great support and comfort, making your ride smooth and enjoyable. Ready to upgrade your gear? Check out our website for more details and get the best deals on snowboarding equipment!

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