8 Best Snowboard Bindings of 2023 - Men’s and Women’s

We cover the best snowboard bindings for any terrain and all the riding experience levels, from budget-friendly options to high-end expensive gears, and of course our favorite - the step on bindings

Which is the best snowboard binding on the market? It’s a bit of a tough question to answer, considering all the factors that come into play. Bindings are a crucial part of your setup. They’re the critical interface between you and your snowboard but often find themselves somewhat overlooked.

Before you jump into the bindings reviews, we suggest learning more about bindings technicals. We created a whole dedicated section for that in this article below - All you need to know about bindings.

You will learn about types of bindings, their parts, the boots and board compatibility, flex rating, maintenance, and more.

Comparison chart

Gender	Type	Bindings	Price	Flex	Terrain	Compatibility	Rider Level
Men	Strap	Burton Genesis	379$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Men	Strap	Union Strata	250$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Men	Strap	Union Ultra	299$	Medium	Freestyle / All-Mountain	2x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Men	Strap	Burton Cartel X	329$	Stiff	Freeride / All-Mountain	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Advanced - Expert
Men	Strap	Burton Freestyle	179$	Soft	Freestyle / All-Mountain	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Beginner-Intermediate
Men	Strap	Union Flite Pro	169$	Medium - soft	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Beginner-Intermediate
Men	step-on	Burton Step On Genesis	379$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Men	step-on	Burton Step On	299$	Stiff	All-Mountain / Freeride	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Women	Strap	Burton Escapade	379$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Women	Strap	Union Trilogy	279$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Women	Strap	Union Ultra	299$	Medium	Freestyle / All-Mountain	2x4, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Women	Strap	Burton Lexa X	329$	Stiff	Freeride / All-Mountain	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Advanced - Expert
Women	Strap	Burton Citizen	179$	Soft	Freestyle / All-Mountain	2x4, 4x4, Channel	Beginner-Intermediate
Women	Strap	Union Rosa	169$	Medium - soft	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Beginner-Intermediate
Women	step-on	Burton Step On Escapade	379$	Medium	All-Mountain / Freestyle	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced
Women	step-on	Burton Step On	299$	Stiff	All-Mountain / Freeride	2x4, 4x4, 3D, Channel	Intermediate-Advanced

Best Step-On Bindings

Among step-on bindings, there is no doubt which is the best. You just need to decide which step-on from Burton's collection you prefer.

Burton Step On Genesis Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (379$)
Burton Step On Escapade Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (379$)

Given that these share the same name as Burton's Genesis, I guess they will be rated medium flex (no official rating). However, they were stiffer than that. The response was lightning-quick, seemingly allowing for an even more intense carve. It appears as though the combination of boots and highback played a significant role in this improvement. In addition, the boots literally hook into the highback, so the bindings and boots have a much stronger connection than normal. They feel like the original Genesis in hand, but they feel stiffer while riding because of the ultimate connection to the boot.

In terms of adjustability - there is non, but the minute you get used to it, you never go back unless you ride powder.

Clicking in - is the best part. You simply slide your boot in 1,2,3 clicks, and you are good to go.

Clicking out - you need to unlock your back lock and then walk yourself out. This is a bit more awkward than clicking in, but I quickly got used to it. With the powder, you have to walk yourself out of the binding, and I found it extremely hard a couple of times, so now I no longer ride deep snow with step-ons.

From my personal experience, once you try to step on - you never go back.

Burton Step On Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (299$)
Burton Step On Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2022 (299$)

The only difference I found between the regular step-on and the Genesis step-on is the Flex.

The regular step-on is stiffer than the Genesis. Due to the fact that your boots are 100% connected to your bindings without any possibility of adjusting with straps, I find Genesis to be stiff enough to ride any terrain, including freeride.

Of course, it's a matter of personal preference, but remember that the step-on adds to the control, even with medium stiff bindings.

After the initial launch, step-on bindings' price went down; now boots+bindings are almost the same price as the regular Burton combination.

Best All Mountain Bindings

Burton Genesis Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (379$)
Burton Escapade Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (379$)

The Genesis bindings are the perfect choice for passionate snowboarders who need one set of gear to do it all. From jumps, jibs, and butters in the park, bombing bowls or shredding steep terrain

Adapting to most board flexes between 3/10 and 7/10 while working best with boards in the 4-6 range - these are also ideal if you have multiple setups but want one pair of bindings that excels on each.

Burton's Genesis Bindings are the perfect fit for any rider. Not only can you rotate and adjust the highback to perfectly align with your board's edge, but you also customize ankle and toe straps independently. All of these adjustments can be made quickly, as most require no tools at all!

Burton's Genesis bindings provide an effortless experience thanks to their smooth ratchet systems that make strapping and releasing a breeze. The foam and gel inserts give extra comfort when riding, especially through the park or on rougher snow conditions. These bindings also benefit from a superior board feel, allowing you to butter with ease due to how they flex perfectly in sync with your boards' movement.

These bindings offer the best of both worlds - delivering outstanding shock absorption and butterability, as well as an impressive response on mid-flex boards, making them just right when you feel like going off-piste. The 'hammock' in front rises to grip your boots tightly while its ankle and toe straps wrap around comfortably, offering stability without compromising flexibility or freedom of movement. With these amazing features packed into one pair, there's sure to be something here for everyone!

Union Strata Snowboard Bindings Men’s 2023 (250$)
Union Trilogy Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (279$)

Cruise on silky-smooth snow hit your top spot again and again, or crush through gnarly terrain with the Union Strata Snowboard Bindings. A must-have for any fan of the brand - their fused Vaporlite bushings absorb bumps while providing a durable base so you can rip without worry. And no matter how long your mission is, Forma Ankle Straps lock in comfort levels to keep the energy going strong, not to mention Hexgrip Toe Straps that secure even tighter than usual when fastening down foot placement – helping transform riders into unstoppable machines!

The new Duraflex ST material replaces the previous Duraflex material and has increased glass for greater responsiveness without increasing weight. But improving the durability for cold temperatures. In terms of cushioning and vibration dampening, OTE Fused Vaporlite bushings set new standards using new precise manufacturing technology. These Union 3D Extruded Aluminum heelcups are designed for optimum heel hold, and minimum drag and are considered much stronger than any plastic alternatives. The Hexgrip Toe Strap with Secure Lock keeps you locked in and on point with multi-positional options. Thanks to the new pin system, toe strap adjustment has been redesigned and reinforced with double the strength. Featuring Union's bombproof ratchet system, Magnesium buckles are light, sleek, and durable.

Women's Trilogy version is based on the same technologies with a small difference in the baseplate and ankle strap to adapt it to women's boots.

Best Freestyle Bindings

Union Ultra Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (299$)
Union Ultra Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (299$)

With a complete technological revamp, Union Ultra bindings are back after a few years of absences.

Ultra-cushioned ride and incredible spring off the jumps with Union's s16 Duraflex Highback Ultra Snowboard Bindings. With a long list of technical advancements, these bindings are designed to offer torsional flex for a smooth ride on any terrain. Riders can enjoy complete control from powdery backcountry lines to park jibs and rails.

The union binding is designed for both men and women. The women's fit has the same technology but a different layout.

Explicitly designed for snowboarders who love freestyle, the Union Ultra Snowboard Bindings form a suspension system that lets you load and unload power at will. With all that pop, you'll need some extra cushion for landings, and Union delivers.

It's a really reasonable 299$ price tag.

P.S. Although Union defined those bindings more as a freestyle type, I really considered them the number #1 best snowboard bindings overall in the all-mountain category.

Best Freeride Bindings

Burton Cartel X Snowboard Bindings Men’s 2023 (329$)
Burton Lexa X Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (329$

For over a decade, the Cartel and Lexa have achieved legendary status in snowboarding. But they're not done yet! The new X models offer an upgraded highback for maximum precision and power on every ride - so you can reach peaks like never before.

Stiff bindings are designed for technical maneuvers, even at high speeds. Great for all-mountain carving and powerful freeriding. Universally compatible with all current mounting systems, including 4x4, 3D, and the Channel. A consistent response and feel for all-terrain dominance with 45% short-glass / nylon composite baseplates.

Featuring FullBED Cushioning System for maximum comfort and minimal fatigue. It's got the same cushioning as Burton's high-end boots, and it's formulated to resist repeated impacts without breaking down or hardening in cold weather. Hi-back design that follows your left and right legs' natural contours for maximum control and comfort.

Straps - Hammockstrap™ 2.0 and Supergrip Capstrap™ 2.0 . The minimalist design combines two materials into one technologically advanced toe strap. Over-molded material improves boot wrap and comfort, while a firmer spine provides a lightweight and supportive skeleton. Ultra-durable, glue-free, stitch-free and PU-free construction.

Buckles - Featuring lightweight aluminum and polycarbonate levers that deliver buttery smooth and reliable ratcheting.

Best Budget Snowboard Bindings for Beginners

Burton Freestyle Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (179$)
Burton Citizen Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (179$)

The Burton Freestyle and its sister Burton Sitizen binding are ideal for entry-level beginner freestyle and all mountains riders. With brand-name hardware under your boots and the Re: FlexTM Full bed Cushioning System to provide full cushioning and shock absorption centered on a baseplate - you get all of these features at an affordable price! Nothing fancy is needed here; just hit the slopes and ride the park or whatever challenges await with confidence in reliable performance from this low-budget offering from the best snowboard brand out there.

The Freestyle binding has a soft flex that is perfect for the park and for beginners that choose mid-soft boots. Its one-piece polycarbonate baseplate provides a consistent response with an impressively low weight, while its minimalist design makes it look small and lightweight. The included ReactstrapTM features comfortable 3D curved triple-axis spine technology, which easily conforms to any boot shape, all in perfect alignment with 4x4,3D or Channel snowboard mounting systems - just what you need to start.

Union Flite Pro Snowboard Bindings - Men’s 2023 (169$)
Union Rosa Snowboard Bindings - Women's 2023 (169$)

Union Rosa and The Union Flite Pro bindings provide top-of-the-shelf technology at an unbeatable price for beginner snowboarders ready to improve their skills all over the mountain. This binding is both lightweight and compatible with any mounting pattern, so you can customize your ride without the compatibility worry! Plus, Thermoformed EVA Brushing will give you optimal shock absorption while protecting vulnerable heels. However, although the "pro" in the name is not exactly top-notch in this area, it will suffice and get you through your juicy powder day.

Both Union bindings offer incredible value for the price with Duraflex footbeds and 3D aluminum heel cups that guarantee a reliable hold and fast-in-fast-out buckles. Their Grade 8.8 steel frame offers maximum stability no matter how low temperatures drop! The Rosa and Flite is an ideal snowboarding option for men and women new to the sport offering unbeatable durability in a medium flex package for a bargain price.

How to Choose Snowboard Bindings – All You Need To Know

What are the best snowboard bindings for you? Do you want to know how to choose them? We'll walk you through the key considerations so you can get started right away.

Bindings connect you directly to your snowboard and transfer your energy, so choosing one that fits your riding style, and ability level is crucial. Bindings come in three types (straps, step-on, rear entrance), each with its own pros and cons, and ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference.

All this and more will be covered in the next 5 minutes of reading: checking the compatibility between your snowboard and boots, understanding what flex rating best suits your riding style, and your snowboard levels.

Types Of Snowboard Bindings

Strap in Bindings

This is the most common type of snowboard binding. For ages, they have been the standard because they are easy to use, secure, and responsive. Their pros are clear -

• It's the cheapest version,
• It's easy to maintain and replace straps when needed.
• very flexible and adjustable
• simple and secure

Rear-Entry Bindings

Bindings with rear entry can be identified by their reinforced highback and single strap at the toe. These bindings have an open highback, which can be slipped into the strap, and then closed.

Compared to stap-in, rear-entry bindings are a great way to make things easier. Not only do they save time in putting them on and taking them off, but they also provide an extra level of security while riding around. Instead of having to clip your boots into two separate bindings, which can be daunting for beginners, these all-in-one bindings make it simple and quick. Moreover, the locking mechanism that allows you to click in and out makes everything more snug and secure while out on the mountain so that you can focus on your stunts instead of worrying about falling just because your bindings were loose. Rear-entry bindings are reliable, convenient, and very easy to use!

Step-On Bindings

Step-on bindings are the latest and greatest game-changer on the slopes. Whether you're an experienced snowboarder looking to try something new or a new beginner, step-ons have everything you need and more.

To begin with, it's fast and convenient to use. You can get in and out in seconds without sitting on the snow. I can easily get in when I jump from the chairlift, for example.

In other words, it redefines the whole snowboarding experience.

Additionally, after 2 years of riding Burton's step-on binding, I can confidently say that it provides more control over your board. Your foot is 100% connected to the board since there are no straps that can be tightened lighter or tighter.

My only two cons are :

that they are more difficult to get out of than straps, which is not a huge deal. But when you are riding in deep snow and get stuck, good luck to you. So if you do a lot of deep snow riding - avoid step-on bindings.

The other cons - although the binding looks very robust and high quality, i'm 100% sure that maintenance will cost more than replacing new straps.

There are currently two brands that make step-on boots and bindings - K2 and Burton, and based on many comments, Burton is much more reliable.

So:

• Snowboarding experience at other levels.
• Convenient and fast.
• Very high responsiveness.
• Not good for deep snow.
• Higher cost of maintenance.

Bindings Compatibility With Snowboard and Boots

Binding Compatibility with Snowboards

Bindings have different mounting options, just like snowboards. The binding's mounting disc holes have to align with the binding's mounting options and hole patterns. It's good to ensure that the discs used with your bindings are compatible with your mount pattern. Nowadays, most brands offer "universal discs" or multiple discs to fit different mounting holes. Double-check the binding mount pattern spec to ensure the binding is compatible with your snowboard.

Burton is similar to Apple; they make the best equipment but don't like mixing it with other brands.

If you want to know more I wrote a compelling article about how to put bindings on snowboard

Binding Compatibility with Snowboard Boots

Choosing the right size snowboard bindings is essential to make sure they fit perfectly with your boots. To help you out, manufacturers provide a convenient sizing chart on their product pages so you can be certain of selecting just the one that's made for you!

Ensure a perfect fit for your boots by consulting the manufacturer's size chart. Then place them in your bindings and make sure everything is snug - but not too tight! If you can't quite reach the ratchet, try adjusting both sides of the straps until they are centered over your boot to get just right tension.

The binding should hug your heel for a secure hold without limiting movement - allowing you to flex freely on the slopes, confident no extra play will hinder that shredding experience!

Bindings Flex Rating

When selecting a snowboard binding, the flex of your set should suit your personal ability level and the terrain that you ride. This attribute also needs to sync with the flexibility of the snowboard boots.

The flexibility of the binding is defined by the flexibility of the highbacks (add picture)

Beginners prefer to ride more flexible snowboard boots and snowboard bindings because they are more forgivable for the mistakes you make.

Freestylers look towards flexible binding highbacks when wanting a forgiving ride, as well as easier jumps/tricks landings.

Advanced riders & freeriders vary in their preference for taller or stiffer highback structures - all to achieve higher speeds throughout deep powdery terrains or steep slopes alike! Thinking about preferred riding styles is an excellent method for narrowing down choices before making any purchases:

Your Riding Style

All-mountain:

Perfect for groomed runs, powder, parks, and pipes. The skill level and terrain preference determine the flex level of bindings. The majority of riders tend to prefer softer or medium flex, while racers prefer stiffer flex.

Freestyle:

Extreme jumps, spins, tricks, halfpipes, rails, and boxes. Bindings designed for freestyle skiing usually have a soft flex for greater maneuverability and ease of turning.

Freeride and Splitboard:

Good for unmarked terrain in the backcountry and side-country. For more control, the bindings are stiffer.

Powder:

Boards that float in deep powder require stiffer bindings for better control.

Sizing and Fit

Snug and secure – that's the way to go when it comes to snowboard bindings. With a compatible binding, you can ensure your boots fit perfectly without pinching or slipping out of place while still maintaining their natural flex. If there is too much slack in the strap ends after tightening them up, keep shopping for alternate options!

Quality and maintenance

Investing in the highest-quality gear can be a real game changer. Going for budget models from lesser-known brands may seem like an easy way to save money, but it could easily come with hidden risks and put you in a less comfortable situation on the slopes or even a dangerous one when you riding at high speed, especially when talking about skiing equipment such as bindings! Cheap materials mean less quality control. You don't want to take chances if failure is not an option on high mountain slopes! At the end of the day, it's always worth paying extra for that essential peace of mind knowing you won't get caught out by poor performance or faulty parts.

Quality matters of course but so does maintenance - shop staff are more likely to be well-versed in maintaining common binding models than obscure ones.

These differences become particularly apparent when you need a repair out on the hill; parts for major brand bindings will often be available at local shops whereas ordering an unfamiliar part could mean your ride day ends abruptly or being resigned to using someone else's worn setup.

Snowboard Binding Parts

Baseplate

Baseplates form an essential link between your bindings and board. The material chosen is key - higher-end boards feature more robust baseplate materials for maximum power transmission plus boost durability. Cushioning likewise provides comfort and helps maximize that energy transfer out to the edges of your deck – while canted footbeds adjust your stance from regular flat angles, enabling you to find a much more natural riding position without affecting flex too drastically.

Highbacks

Highbacks are vertical plates extending from the heel cup to the lower calf, offering control over the heelside edge of your board. Tall and stiff highbacks provide more speed and control, while shorter and softer models give park riders and beginners better flexibility. Forward lean adjustments can be modified on the go for personal preference. Those without a backplate offer more mobility in the ankle and a less rigid feel when riding.

Straps

Toe Strap :

The strap wraps over the toe box of the boot for a comfortable and stable fit. Ultimately, this strap helps align the foot for a better placement in the heel cup, resulting in a more responsive board.

Ankle Strap :

There is a hefty strap that secures the bindings safely above the ankle, and if it were not present, the bindings would fall off. The ankle strap is the main strap that connects your leg to the binding.

Footbed

You and your bindings are directly connected by the footbed. Its functions are cushioning and power transmission. Most footbeds are made of foam, which absorbs a lot of shock. Footbeds are canted for increased comfort, so your knees are aligned better due to the outward angle of the footbed. The toes of the footbed can also be raised up for a better power transmission, referred to as a 'gas pedal'.

FAQ

How To Put Bindings On Snowboard?

Bindings are easy to set up. All you will need is a screwdriver. However, you must know a few key factors before you start. Getting your width, angle, and stance right will enhance your comfort level and slope performance. I wrote a compelling article about it here

How to adjust snowboard bindings

You can easily adjust your snowboard bindings at home by checking three basic things: the angle of the board, the distance between your bindings, and finally the angle of your bindings.

What size snowboard bindings do i need

To find the right snowboard binding size, you should consider your boot size as well as the size of your board. A binding that is too large or too small can cause discomfort and lack of control while riding. Generally, bindings are sold in sizes S, M, L and XL. To properly fit your bindings to your boots:

1. Measure the length of your boots from toe to heel
2. Cross-reference with a sizing chart to determine which size will fit best
3. Once you have determined the correct size, align the center of the baseplate with the center of your board
4. Position your feet evenly in each binding before tightening down all screws

How should snowboard boots fit in bindings

Snowboard boots should fit snugly in the bindings, with no excessive movement. The boot should be centered over the board, with your toes not protruding outside of the binding. Be sure to also adjust your highback as needed to ensure optimal fit and performance when riding.

Do good snowboard bindings make a difference?

Snowboard bindings are a very important part of your gear because they deliver power from your legs, feet, and body into your snowboard. You will be able to control your board easily with a good pair of bindings, your feet will be comfortable, and your bindings will absorb vibrations.