Are Step-In Bindings for LOSERS?!
Let us know in the comments - have you tried them?
Thanks to K2 for the Clicker X HB step in snowboard bindings (review in video)
Next time we'll have to try Burton Step-On Bindings and Review them.
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"we're going to try step ins..."
Makes you wonder if they were paid 😂.
Right? I mean, the Flow bindings have been around for a LONG time and those were initially the closest to a "regular" binding. The new Nideckers are the real deal..... a "normal" binding you can step into if you want to use it that way. I've used all 3 (Union/Burton classic bindings, Flow step-ins, Nidecker step-ins). Just bought the Nideckers this year. Honestly liked the Flow "Hybrid" bindings the best for responsiveness...really has more to do with the ankle strap and heel cup designs and relative flex than anything else. I'm not a fan of the newest rage of "mesh flex" (or "3D flex") toe and ankle straps. I don't like the flex ankle strap on the Nidecker step-in. I need to stiffen up the upper of my Salomon boots to feel the same "locked in" feel when transitioning to my toe-edge. I had this on one of my old Burton bindings too and was one reason I opted to try the Flow hybrid bindings. Best thing I tried..... took the Flow Hybrid ankle strap and installed on my Nidecker supermatic step-ins...... heaven. All the responsiveness I was looking for when switching from heel to toe edge, and all the convenience of using EITHER step-in or classic rip and ratchet binding straps.
@@jeebs9 I didn't pay ed shreds. I did get him the clickers though.
if you guys get me the others ones we will try them, but didn't have access
@@ShredSchool1 you can rent them for cheap at gear shops, I know the Step Ons are at the Burton stores for like $30 a day.
Switched to Burton Step Ons and DC Judge boots mid-season after a catastrophic failure of my traditional bindings on a double black. I hurt my back in the fall, and got the step ons so I wouldn't have to bend over as much. I absolutely love them. Best decision I've made. My local East Coast mountain is tiny and the servings that you save really add up. I race, ride all mountain, and pretend to hit the park.
Known from time to time to dabble in a few knuckles 😂
what's your setup?
@@gboates I primarily run a Greats Uninc 156 with Step Ons + DC Judge (for my wider feet). For powder and race days I have a Jones Hovercraft 2.0.
Don’t you still have to bend over?
I'm using this same binding and boot setup on a Jones Freecarver 9000. Good stuff.
Test the Burton version.
I'm 64 and lived through the first step in era. K2 Burton and even a Salomon step in that was excellent but was never brought to market. They all had issues . After many years on Flow, I switched to the Burton Step On with Burton Photon boots. I have 75 days so far this year. Riding all Mountain, Powder, moguls,switch and carving. No park, much to old for the crashing although I eat it enough in the bumps. The performance of the system is awesome. Very,very good response. No issues what so ever even in deeper snow. I laugh every time I hear the "if there so good ,why don't pros ride them?" I'm a solid Joe and they suit me just fine!
Same; I had the original Clickers back in 98 for a couple of seasons. Then I went back. 3 years ago I went Burton StepOns and it's a game changer. Love them.
I'm almost 68 and used Burton Step On for a second season. Sometimes I have a problem with second click, but I like them. I had K2 clickers and metal palates on the bottoms of boots were freezing my feet. I would love to try Clew, but they are expensive and some saying that Burton are better.
After 15 years of riding, bought step ons this season… will never go back
Don’t ride much pow I guess
@@hamedizzy5137 not as much as I would like… but step ons are no different than any other binding in Pow… have to clean out the foot bed regardless man
@hamedizzy5137 you can 100 percent ride POW in them
@@bob6693 you’ll need a brush lol
@@hamedizzy5137 How do you know? Have you actually tried step ons in powder? I have, and had no problem, nor need for a brush.
I don’t live in the mountains, but ride Mammoth 5-6 days a month…the altitude is an ass kicker, even after hitting the gym multiple times a week. With Step-Ons you’re not trying to stand from a seated position in the snow 20-30 times a day at 10,000 ft, thus saving LOTS of energy.
I switched to Nidecker Supermatics. Don’t need special boots. All of the goodness of step ins and none of the feeling of looseness.
Started using Nidecker Supermatics this season. I've just turned 60 & this deffo easier to get into, with less bending over. They were tricky to get out when I bailed in deep snow as it was hard to get to the release button. Overall I love them
That's when you release the bindings the usual way instead of using the level release. Just mark the straps where you set up the bindings so you know where to rachet it to. It's how I remember how far to rachet it for me whenever I need to unstrap the bindings the 'usual' way. Other than deep pow, it's always use of the lever.
I’ve been riding Burton step ons for the past 4 or 5 years and will never go back. I love them so much I have three sets of step on bindings. I don’t feel loose or that I’m going to pop out of them. If anyone ever tells you that you’ll pop out of them, it’s 100% user error
Problem with this video, it's opinion based on one brand of step in. Try different ones then make the judgement. Ived asked a lot of people who have tried the burtons, knnideckers, and clews. They all love them and have said they can never go back to regular bindings. Out of all the people ived asked, none were k2s. I have a pair of nideckers and got them after weighing in the pros and cons of the other systems. The biggest reason is because theyre the closest to regular bindings. I eventually will try the burtons but thatll be a huge extra cost because you need special boots for that system.
I use Burton Step On and like them. K2 have metal plates on bottoms of boots and they were freezing my feet so I sold them after one season. I would like to try Clew, but they are the most expensive.
I am using the Nidecker Supermatic. On a sunny bluebird day the step ins work amazing. Get out of the chairlift, step in. Done. On a powder day, if it is too deep, just strap like a regular binding. Compatible with any board mounting system (yes even the burton channel system) Compatible with all regular boots. Drawbacks. The binding is heavier than your normal binding. And also more expensive Give it a try.
Burton's Step Ons are on a whole new level, a million miles ahead of Clickers. Just as the Japanese rides said, they are actually more responsive than traditional bindings (while easier to step in than those Clickers). If that's still not enough for you, put on a couple foam spacers on top of your footbed. This makes it harder to step in, but the connection is even more solid. Please Please Please! You must try out those! Let me know if you are actually planning to, I can send you guys pictures of my setup (Most poor reviews are due to poor setups).
I will have to give them a try
@@ShredSchool1please do. I have ridden a variety of step in / on / clicker bindings from the first generation and probably hit the biggest jump of my life on a rental setup with those steel disk click in step on bindings with no high back. Wild …didn’t feel super in control. Owned a set of the original Burton step in (SI) customs with the freestyle boots. That was the best setup of its time. I rode mine until the boot basically fell apart. (Due to neglect probably lol. Riding in the rain. Once I melted some of it in front of a fire. I’m assuming that’s why the sole let go but otherwise I’ve never came out of them and I crashed super super hard doing dumb shit when I was young. Flash forward, I got the 2019 Burton Step On system with the Ion boots and I’m super happy with it. Probably the best riding setup I’ve tried. I mounted the new burtons in place of my old ones on my 2003 ride exile and it kills ice coast. I haven’t rode straps in years and I kind of don’t miss it. If I had money I would grab the best strap system to compare but I have to say the performance has been outstanding from my Burton Step On system with the Ion boots. Solid 🤙🏼
I use them. They are great. I had K2 and Burtons Step On are much better.
The best step-in is the Nidecker Supermatic, you don‘t need a special boot, you can use it with all normal snowboard boots, it is overall the best system, very quick in and out and you have the option to use it in the traditional way in hard condition in deep snow.
I use mine whenever I'm hiking the park. Saves a ton of time. Still ride my NOW bindings whenever I'm just out cruising.
All my boards have the Supermatic now. Only downsides are they're expensive and heavy, and the occasional snow getting into the mechanism and jamming the lever from getting loose. Hoping they can at least redesign it and make it lighter.
I finally got to take my Supermatics for a ride last weekend and I'd say the exact same thing. I'm not very skilled, but when the powder wasn't too deep I managed to step in whilst skating off of the lift a few times, and that felt pretty great! Now, when I accidentally flipped into 4ft+ powder or tripped over a yuppy ski family and clogged the ratchet mechanism with snow...uh oh....all I had to do was unstrap and move on. Best of both worlds with any boot you choose!
You still have to adjust straps
@@fudhater8592 only the first time, every time after that the straps are already set in place.
Have done approximately 70 days over 3 years in the burton step-ons. I wouldn't go back. Try them for more than just a day and you'll be convinced too.
I just turned 49. I've skied for years, and just gave snowboarding a try for the first time this year. I've gone twice so far. Not once did I feel the need to sit in the snow to strap in after my initial strap in. I sat down for that one because I had no idea what I was doing. Now I've got my first setup, a Jones Mountain Twin, 32 lashed double BOA boots and Union Force Bindings sitting in my closet waiting for their maiden voyage next winter. Probably the main thing that sucks about east coast living... The very short snow season
To provide context so you can decide if my comments are of any value, I’m a 50 year old guy that lives in Iowa. The local ski areas have elevation changes of less than 200’. I have to drive 10 hours to get to the nearest mountain. As a result I usually get less than 10 mountain days a year. I taught myself to snowboard when I was 30 and the park is generally a place I don’t go. To sum it up, I’m old and don’t get out much. I switched to Burton Step Ons 4 years ago and absolutely love them. I don’t feel the excessive play like was mentioned with the K2s. For me the responsiveness is excellent and I have never had a problem with popping out of my bindings unintentionally so long as I was properly clicked in. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of stepping in or getting out of the bindings and I’ve even managed to step in while getting off the lift for a seamless transition to the run. For an old guy like me Burton Step Ons are the way to go. I can go anywhere I want to go and have no worries. Getting in and out is a breeze, I will sometimes even take my board completely off so as to be much more comfortable when standing in a lift line because it only takes a second to put the board down and step one foot in. For me the ease and comfort are game changers. I’m too old to want to learn tricks and jumps, my body just doesn’t recover as and I work a job that I can’t do if I’m injured, but I feel confident that the bindings would perform well. I think Step Ons are a great addition to the lineup for us old losers. It expands the envelope making snowboarding accessible to more people and allowing us old dudes to keep riding longer. I may not be cool enough to shred but I can still get out there and enjoy the mountain. I think that’s what it’s all about.
Great contribution! Happy to hear you are getting out there and shredding it
Preach on Just enjoying the sport, views and fresh air
I'm turning 71 and carve hard, posi posi angles 9/10 boards. I can't find a pair of boots that can take the pressure my heel straps can. Good for the duffers - not everyone is super agro.
You are not old. I'm almost 68 and I also use Burton Step Ons and like them. Sitting on the snow is not fun. Also my skiing friends don't have to wait for me. Live in San Diego and snowboard in Mammoth most of the time. About three weeks a year. Keep on shredding. 👍
I have not tried the clews but I have tried the supermatics, flow, and Burton. For my money Burton is the best at the moment followed by flow and then the supermatics. I do think the supermatics will eventually be the best they just need to change a few things. For starters the release lever needs to be something stronger than plastic since it does not lock in the release position. Riding since the 80s. Tried all the crazy things along the way and I do think step ins / ons have a solid future. Not sure I like those k2’s with all that lateral movement.
I love my flow bindings! I was super stoked the first time trying them out in the park!
I tried Flow, K2 and Step On. I like Burton Step On the most. I also would like to try Clew, but I don't have money to burn. I use Burtons with Jones Flagship. It's a good set up.
I'm not for or against them. I use the few seconds of sitting down to strap in as part of my mind prep. Back country boarding is different though. I'm not constantly on and off lifts so the convenience of step ins doesn't really matter for me.
I've said this before. Step in just solves the number of steps to get in. I'm 40 years old. I had been using flow from the very beginning 20 years. So natural I went Supermatic. The price difference is what kept me from the Burton step-in version. I think both are great. They solve the same problems.
On Step-ons for 2 seasons and love them. Still occasionally fumble getting in them but that’s fine. What I never hear mentioned is how consistent they are as far as pressure and feel. No retightening or loosening ever - same pressure and feel every single time. And really, it’s a good thing that you have to be a little forceful to get out of them vs easy. I’ll ride them until the end. 😑
I've tried Burtons (2023). My hangup with them is that they don't allow for fine-adjustment. Some days I want the straps cranked and some days I want them loose. Depends on conditions - both snow and my own body. Also not keen on having to use Burton or DC boots as my feet hate them (vans all the way!! 😆) *Edit: and I run my board the same as Ed. Stiff bindings (Union Atlas/Force), soft boots (Van HiStd).
Dude. Same. Forces with my Hi-Std OGs. Or NOW Select Pros. Want my board and bindings doing all the work, not my feet.
after couple seasons in normal boots and bindings upgraded my equipment and got burton step on . i consider myself casual rider and they are huge improvement in terms of responsiveness
I was prejudiced about step in/on. But, I tried Burton step in and Clew Bindings. I like stiff bindings and more flexible boots, so the feeling of the Burton without straps bothered me. Plus, on pow days, it was practically impossible to click in. I bought the Clew (as incredible as it may seem), because it has straps, it is easy to click in and because it has the option of using a normal binding on pow days. It lacks a little cushioning, but I'm loving it.
I bought Clew 2 months ago... I don't know why people hate Clew they talk about cheap plastic but all brands use plastic lol.. product isn't perfect but is fantastic for me works with my K2 boots also I bought Burton Custom Camber and I use channel system.. my only complain about Clew is the shock absorption, and bindings is heavy.. I like more responsive bindings but I guess they can do better in shock absorption.. Powder conditions you can just use as normal binding.. otherwise super secure never had a problem with eject etc.
I spent 30+ riding days with my Clews this season, and i'm not going back to normal bindings. Burton SOs are great, but as you correctly mentioned, Clew can be used as standard bindings, when the pow gets deep. That's a huge advantage, plus i already had recently purchased good expensive boots, so going with Clew was the best option for me
I started using the Burton Step Ons a few years ago and they have worked out really well for me. I am 51 and the step ons are easier for me to get into. I am not a park rider so can’t comment on how they are for that aspect. The boots lock securely into the binding and I have never had any issues with the boots coming out or anything. For how I ride, the stop ons work great for me. And on a side note.. I have no skier friends.
Started with Switch binding for decades until my boots gave out. Bought the Clickers (without high backs) and been riding them for 5 years. I’m that guy that bombs the mountain and love how quick the turns are.
Friends and I all switch until the boots gave out, then Burton Step In. Feels super locked-in. And lighter.
I switched to Burton step ons this year and I love them. I do ski patrol at my local mountain and another guy on the patrol had them and I saw how much easier it was for him to “strap in” with a loaded sled. My boots were shot at the end of last year so I pulled the trigger over the summer and bought the boots and the bindings when they were on sale. A little awkward like you said lining it up sometimes, and the release can be a little awkward cause your toes are still locked in, but I found the Burton ones perform better or the same as the strap bindings I’ve used over the years. Also the burtons are LOCKED IN unlike the K2s. Seeing them in your video with the boot lift gave me anxiety lol
I wish you included Clews in this review. They represent the best of both worlds. You get pretty much the same straps plus the feel and safety as with regular bindings along with the convenience of easily stepping in and out of the bindings. I've had it for one season now, which obviously doesn't answer the question about its longevity, but loving every minute of it so far
Im a beginner boarder who just got his first board with Nidecker Supermatics. Love them. As someone who's getting older, you reduce the amount of times to bending down to half. Yes, the common complaint is weight can be an issue but where you rest from being tired with the weight, you make up for in the number of runs you do just by less strap in time.
Nidecker Supermatic rider here. Best of both worlds
I have the K2 Clicker X HB, K2 Clickers (no high back), Clew, Burton Step Ons, Nidecker Supermatics, and GNU Freedom rear entry bindings. Been using them for the last two seasons and so far, have ridden the K2 Clicker X, Clews and Nidecker Supermatics the most, but still bring the Burtons along, just in case.
Using flow 2 lights and I'm happy with them, save me a lot of time and effort, sometimes I'm quicker to strap in than my ski friends are to sort out their skis and poles 😅
Test #1 should be can you find a pair of comfortable boots and for how much.
the K2s were surprisingly comfortable and I am picky with boots
First season using the Burton Step On X Re:Flex..never going back! I was (am) scared of popping out..especially on a lift and potentially seeing 1500 euro worth of a snowboard and binding fall away to the extent that I still use a lease..though I’ve never come out of the binding even when falling hard. The ease of use, precision and instant reaction is a game changer for me personally. Each to their own though. What works best for any individual is what you should wear.
great to hear. Do you have to ride pretty stiff boots for this?
Yeah I ride the Burton Ions. I am thinking about also getting the Photons for the double Boa system! Great vid BTW! ❤@@ShredSchool1
@@MarkDonegalPhotons are great. Spoke to a one of the well known guys at Snowshoe and he rode the Ions, but switched to Photons and couldn't believe the difference in a positive way.
I ride the Photons with step ons , former Ion Cartel EST rider, love the double boa. Crazy responsive setup I really enjoy though sometimes I miss my traditional cartel and Ion strap in combo when poorly attempting butters.
@@go4abe do you find the double boa on burton boots loosens throughout the day? I had a pair of 32 boots with double boa that I had to tighten every few runs and couldn't stand it but kinda want the convenience of boa back lmao
Really like the Burton Step-ons. They don’t have the side to side sloppiness of the K2s. I ride a bit of everything except park and have the Genesis to soften the response a bit and they are perfect for me. The regulars would be too much. Worst part about Burton is being locked into the Burton boots, which are not a great fit for me.
Yeah i gotta try these too
I'm not 100% sure about this but I believe Burton licensed the technology to DC and some other brands so you may have more options in the future. Might be worth checking in with your local shop, they can definitely help get you setup with the right fit.
I’ll keep an eye out for that. Thanks!
DC - better heel lock
I have the dc boots with mine and they feel great
Never understood why they weren't more widespread, but the Flow-like bindings offer the best of both world : Fast, standing-up, while-already-riding get in ; and strap support and adjustable stiffness. (seems like the new supermatics are good in this area too)
I've been riding K2 clickers since 2000. Love them. When I did the switch, I found them more responsive than regular ones and told myself I would never go back. I do free riding (powder, trees, steeps) and don't go to the park though. I am glad to know that there are some new options now as I suspect mind will eventually break down (24 years and counting) and was dreading having to go back to straps. Thanks for the video.
I'm probably the opposite of most commenters here. I went from Flows to traditional bindings and I'm not going back. I have screws in my ankle that the traditional heel strap grind on so I used flows for years, they spread out the tension over a larger surface area vs straps. I went from the regular ones to the ones with the hybrid strap like on the supermatics. The hybrid straps were the best version of the Flow. I switched to Rome Kitanas after figuring out I could add padding to my boot to alleviate the issue with the screws in my ankle. I'm never going back to a step in, on or rear entry style binding. Once you learn to strap in standing up it's really only a couple of seconds difference gong in and zero time savings getting out. The Kitanas offer so much more control and feel it's insane.
I've got some Clew binding on pre-order for next season. As I do most of my boarding at indoor centres in the UK, quick entry will make a big difference to me.
Its not about saving time..per strap in . Its all about saving energy ,for older riders. Which easy entry bindings does let you ride more laps per day. As you have way more energy.
Rode FLOWs for the last 2 seasons and liked them. Switched to CLEWs this season and I like them too. For me it's a mobility issue as I have old skate & snowboarding injuries so the step ins really make a huge difference. Happy I've found products that allow me to continue to do what I Love. You just gotta find what works for you.
I made the change in 1999 with the K2 high back and the boots are made by Shimano. Been running them for so long I never even noticed it wasn’t cool. I only ride with skiers and also don’t spend much time in the park. I only had one problem over 20 years. It was at the top of mammoth mountain on a snow day and we did a little hike to get to a shoot and couldn’t give my boot on. After a couple sec stomping I took it off and found a pebble on my boot at the place it hooks in. Ez to just poke it out and down the mt I went. I made the change so long ago I really didn’t remember the last time I used strap bindings. I spent a couple weeks running hard ski boots on a big slalom board with both toes pointing down the. Mountain. Also spent a couple weeks with my board set up backwards it was to Help to be more comfortable running switch. Working at a resort you get speed lots on time on the hill and you do not feel like you have to get on as many runs in because you can go out the next day
I ride flow NXT-AT step ins. This season I switched to boots rated 10 in stiffness which gives much better control with the step ins. I have boots rated 7 but they were way to soft for step in bindings. My boots have the boa system which needs to be tightened a few times during the day. The trick to the old K2 clickers was to spray the bottom of your rear boot and the rear binding with pledge furniture polish. Snow will not stick to it and it lasts for a weeks of riding.
The clew and nidecker look interesting to me, the clew uses normal boots and has more traditional straps...so i like that idea . There are some things about the nidecker that have me leaning towards Clew or Burton ... if i got Burton though, i would totally have to get boots that had an ankle strap with the BOA tightening system... I've just returned to boarding after 20+ years , now riding with my teenage son. I had Morrow Engage 3 step in bindings and boots when I was a teen, and loved them... i don't fit the boots now so my son has been using them. At 40+ and out of shape i like the idea of step ins , but will have to look into it more, as of now im leaning towards traditional lace boots and strap in bindings, and maybe getting into better shape...lol I'd love to see this video updated with a comparison to Clew bindings as well, to see what you think about them....they're expensive, but it seems the Burton system isn't cheap either, and the clew still allows for any normal boots to he used... Cheers, and thanks for the video...
Old af, but newbie boarder. I have Nidecker Supermatics.It's so nice not to have to strap in -- it definitely accelerated the learning curve for me, particularly on the beginner hill where the run isn't that long. You get the advantages of traditional bindings if that matters to you, and you can use normal boots. I feel like a lot of the reviews are done by super proficient boarders, but there are those of us out there who just want a nice ride down the mountain, and I think for that group (if you have the coin) step-ins are a no-brainer.
Check out (╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻ AngrySnowboarder's review of the Clew vs. Supermatics. When it comes to build constructions, there's a pretty big difference.
my step ons are the best choice i've ever made, I regularly thrash big couloir with it, havent had any failures yet edit: ive got the burton step ons, with the photon boas, they have an ankle strap as well as the top calf strap, feels close to normal boots/bindings but more responsive
K2 Clicker HB with the backs pulled off for my daily rider, modified backs for my Knapton Twin. The response is unreal, the boots are Kamas (stiff) and the side to side wiggle is by design.
I rode the original k2 clickers for 20 years and loved them every time. Id still ride them but my boys need replacing and they aren't made anymore. I currently ride the nidecker supermatic and recommend those too
Straps for life.. thank you. Good night.
i have been riding the Burton step ons for ~3 years. I find them superior to straps for a couple reasons. 1 they make the entire board/binding combo lighter (this also reduces the effort needed for doing just about anything on the board). 2 as noted in the video, the direct connection between boot and board also reduces effort to turn and makes precise movement faster (I have not used the clickers specifically but if there is movement between the boots they appear to be an inferior product to the burton step ons). a trick for those not used to a more locked in boarding style is to loosen the boot a bit as there is no adjestment to the binding on step ons, if you have a double boa tighten the lower part of the boot while leaving the top slightly losser. this brings me to number 3, no adjustment in the binding straps (because there are none) means i get the same ride and responsiveness i expect (assuming i don't make my boot too loose or tight). 4 i dont need to get down as often, people have complained that getting a step on is difficult sitting down. it is not, it is just slightly different than the procedure you would go through with traditional straps. I would encourage everyone to at least try step ons but i admit the cost for specific boots and bindings at one time can be a barrier
I see some people in the mid-west using step-on bindings, but over all most still use traditional bindings. Here in Vermont I am sticking to my Nitro Team and Team Pro bindings with my Beast boards. I do mostly park, and feel way more secure in them. I have tried step-on bindings from Burton, and definitely was not for me.
I just wanted to try out Flow bindings and I must say that they will probaly be my main choice for my other setup aswell. Like, lets be honest, the time diffrence doesnt really is that big if youre a seasoned boarder but they arent just quicker, they feel amazing aswell. I got Flow Fuse Carbon and I love them in the park, cant wait to try them out on my freecarver aswell...! Traditional bindings are fine and super reliable but these flows, they got me convinced for the future!
Been using Flow since 2002 before they had ratcheting straps and just ordered the Flow Fuse yesterday. Great bindings. I looked at the supermatics too but couldn't justify paying like 3x.
I have a pair of flow fuses and I really think rear entry or the supermatics are the way to go. Not only can you get in faster but they also allow you to put your foot in for really short distances. And if you want to you can just use them like normal bindings. Also in some instances it’s much easier to adjust the angle of the high back
I have the Burton Step Ons since 2019 and it's all I know. Also, never had any issues with them, I'm starting to hit jumps and park too. I even like wearing them kinda loose.
I do all mountain carving and buttering mostly, and I switched to the Burton step-ons beginning of last season. I agree that they are harder to get out of than strap bindings. You have to bend down lower than with straps to pull the lever mechanism, and if the ground is not perfectly flat, pressure on the mechanism can make it either hard to pull the lever, or hard to get your heels out of the lock while pulling the lever (depending if you are on your toe or your heel). This had me questioning at the end of my first season whether there was really any point to the step-ons, but after my second season I definitely am sold on the ease of use in general. Getting in is easy of course, although I do still occasionally mess it up on the go. After 2 seasons I still feel like I'm getting better at it, so while it is basically easy, there is a learning curve for complete mastery. There is none of that lateral movement on the Burtons that you were showing with the Clickers. Connection points on the front of the boot are both left and right, so you are locked in both laterally and front-back. Especially with my Photon boots, with the integrated ankle strap, they feel very secure. I would agree with your Japanese friend that they feel really responsive. After 2 seasons I have no 'trust' issues. I've never experienced or heard of failure on step-ons, and I have had plenty of strap failure previously, so step-ons feel like the more secure and reliable choice at this point over strap bindings.
I got flows and they really feel like your regular binding once you set them up. No boot restrictions, holds you like any strap bindings, as easy entry. I ride mostly on the playful side but don't shy away from pow days and double blacks.
flows have been in the game a long time, since 96 i think. I have never tried them, will have to give them a shot
I love my Flow Nx2's, I've been using mine since 2015. I hate sitting down to strap up and I feel like the best of both types. I can't quite manage to strap up while moving like step in but unstrapping I can.
Switched to Burton Step On and rode with them all winter. They are amazing! Definitely not going back to strap on bindings.
I use Clew, love them. Be nice to hear your opinions on those
Had these K2s and hated them. The worst part for me is that the underside holes (where the step-in hardware locks in) would continually get packed with snow & ice, so the heel wouldn't click in. I spent way more time trying to get the heel to lock in than I would have with traditional bindings. I returned the K2 boots+bindings, switched to some Flows and the experience was much better, but I'm looking to pick up a set of the Nidecker Supermatics next season.
I’m 120kg (240 pounds) and this year was my 4th snowboard trip On my previous trips I asked my friends and my wife to help me strep on my bindings or it took me like 10 minutes to put them on and I was ending the day freezing This time I had my Burton step on and it was freeing so for big people or people that have other problems to strep on It think this is amazing 💯 % recommend
So 2 of my buddies have these and the main problem is the snow gets packed in the boot lock in area and they constantly have to scrape out the hard pack snow in that boot lock in section. It’s no problem on slushy days and icy days. Pow days they are extra slow with the constant scraping. They have had them for 3 season and switched back to strap bindings
Switched to Burton step ons. Very happy.
I have the burton step ons ions . They were super convenient when I was still learning how to snowboard. However, my boot felt stiff and narrow for my normal size , I should’ve went up a half size . My feet tend to cramp up and get tired if I do a lot of aggressive riding . I felt like I had to tighten the boots after a few runs . I noticed the back of binding lift when I lift my heels or try to Ollie which doesn’t feel like I’m connected to my board and getting the response I want . I think the step ons are great for beginners and riders who just like cruising on the groomers
@ShredSchool1 You should do the same video but with Supermatics
The other added plus is that you easily get an extra couple top to bottom runs in time saved. That pays for themselves in no time.
I used to ride K2 clickers. Love the boots and still Ride K2 today. I moved off Clicker after a trip to Crested Butte that just destroyed the system. Would I ride them again… probably, but I don’t know I’d make them my daily drivers. I love the connection I have with the board via straps. It’s not a trust issue as much as it’s a comfort issue knowing I’m connected.
So far I would say the Nidecker Supermatics are our favorites. easy in, easy out. Fits with every boot. But the downside is they are very heavy!
The clews are the best bindings
This year, I had a boa break on the slopes. I had a backup pair of boots (fortunately), because that happened in the past. If I had a "dedicated" set of boots that were only compatible with stepins, I would not have been able to switch to my backup pair of boots. That's a line I'm not willing to cross again.
I have a couple seasons on the Burton. Get the expensive, stiffer boots. The only issue I have is what you mention re: missing the step in and then things can get interesting. But being over 50, I'll never go back to straps. One thing that I noticed with the K2 is they look more like a bike pedal step in. Toe first. I wish Burtons were toe first also, but the truth is that with stiff boots, it's nothing like clipping into pedals.
I have Burton Step Ons for 2 seasons and I can click in toe first, although it’s easier heel first.
20yrs ago i tried step-ons (cant remember brand), last year i tried burton step-on, same problem with both, feels like the boot is the only thing supporting you and it needs to fit so perfect to feel "right"... this year i tried the supermatics, and for me it would work on softer boards since i feel like the highback is too soft... And they are a bit heavy. Staying on traditional bindings since u can find a better fit/suitible binding for a lower price and only saving about a minute or two per day 🤷♂️
next up: magnetic boots
Strap provides options. Strapless boots are stiff and in the end get loose. Strap bindings give me the option of picking any boot, any company. Thats why technical riders still strap-in
I'm an old fart and I like Burton Step-on bindings. I had K2 clickers. Metal plates on the bottom of boots were freezing my feet. I may try Clew one day.
Riding off & on for 15 years. Bought Burton steps in January after a strap broke on my Salamons. I'm 47 now and admit I love the lazy factor. Just get a good sized quality stomp pad with a boot scraper......you're gonna need it for pow days
Burton step ons for a few seasons now. the ease of use is too valuable for me to go back to regular. also, no failures or releases yet
I personally ride the clickers since the day they premiered I ride them today still with no backs to them send them on everything I do haven't let me down yet love em I generally do freeride but hit the big jumps on boring days ..
I used strap bindings for a few years and switched to the nidecker system and it works really well, still found some moderate issues trying to get in but even then when I had those issues I’d still take no longer than the regular bindings. Took them on bigger jumps than people would lead you to believe about them not being meant for park style boarding but i can understand the logic behind it regardless. I am curious about getting into hard booting for freestyle and pipe riding. I’m aware of Damian Sanders and his preaching about how it rides but I feel if it was truly good the standard wouldn’t be as overwhelmed with soft boots and soft boot systems. To my understanding the carving is better but what about tricks and comfort in park pipe and resort riding conditions. Most videos I find are primarily for back country split boarding but I simply do have that luxury most times I have the opportunity to ride.
Plus over all they looks so much better and are supposed to last much longer only thing is price but I think it’s fine if I’m replacing soft boots for the same price anyways
My $3,000 story: I learned with traditional bindings. My friend convinced me to buy Burton's stepons first time buying my own gear. I have wide feet. Boot was too tight but I still rode it first winter. I suffered. For next season I got the wide version of the stepon boot. Still suffered. Still too tight. I really enjoyed the bindings but wanted to be comfortable on the mountain. I ordered Clew. With Clew you can have pretty much any boots you want. With Burton you have to get their boot. I bought the widest boot I could find. I am now comfortable. Took me a minute to get used to the Clew, but now I can even step on to them as I slide of the chairlift and I just keep going. So yeah, I spent almost 3K on boots and bindings till I figured what works for me. But now every day on the mountain is so much fun, it's hard to stop riding to take a bathroom break and go home at the end of the day. However; if my friend never told me about the stepon bindings I would have just used the traditional ones from the start and saved a lot of money. In my own personal opinion, after experiencing 3 different types of bindings: Stepons are the most fun to own. And if you don't have wide feet and are comfortable in Burton's boot, go for it. I love my Clew, but the price difference between traditional bindings and Clew bindings just isn't worth the difference on fun you'll have. You can get good traditional bindings for about $120. If Clew were $250-$275 I would recommend getting those. But at $400+ not worth it. Because they have straps you still have to deal with all the issues they come with plus the stepons mechanism. So you're basically adding things that can go wrong to your bindings. With Burton's stepons there are no straps. So it's worth the money in my opinion. Some issues I had with my Clew: When it's really cold and some snow accumulates and turn to ice on the heel, sometimes I can't step all the way in. Sometimes I have to pull the release a few times before it releases. Someone recommended me to put my weight on the heel first and than it releases more easy, but it's not always possible. And turning my snowboard to the right angle so I can put my weight on my heel just to release the boot is kind of contradicting the point of having stepons. It is easier to step into the Clew bindings off the lift than it is with the Burton's ones. I personally don't need to sit on the snow to strap into traditional bindings. So to me Clew saves 10 seconds maybe. Is it worth $400? Not to me. Side note: I met a short thin girl with size 7 feet that also complained about her boot being too tight, and a salesman at a shop that sells Burton's products and he said it's a known thing that Burton has thin boots and people complain about them being too tight.
which boots fit for you? i'm super wide foot really tired to get boots..
@@dawisdead K2 Maysis Wide Snowboard Boots Mens. I own 2 pairs! I don't use the side BOA. I leave it as loose as possible.
@@Natures_Symmetry oh i put it on my list of suspects. i was between Maysis and Burton Photon. i'm leaning toward Maysis. i will try your boa option if i get that. Thank you!
@@dawisdead My pleasure. I know the struggle. Also, I recommend not getting Burton. Good luck!
Flow bindings are best!
we ride the first series of burton step ons still after i don't know how many years now. we ride them on everything. my wife has the simpler ones but burton makes ones that have a dual boa for big stuff and they have more support across the instep with a second boa. have taken them park, pipe, all mountain, powder, andcannot complain. i have seen beginners who don't know how they work not lock in properly and lose their board on the lift -both burton and clew -so know your gear and check before you ride that you are seated into the mechanism properly. All that said i mainly ride resrots and i'm from Ontario canada where the lines are long and the lifts are short but they were great at tremblant and killington too. ill be honest, the k2 ones you rode look terrible, but its their first year. give them time to fine tune with rider feedback.
I'm riding Burton's Step On for four years now. I'm not an expert, just an intermediate snowboarder. I never had that side-to-site lose movement shown by the K2. I feel really comfortable and never had an situation where the boots where come off. Once they are clicked in properly, only by using the lever to release. Since there are different brands and step in (step on, clickers or how ever you wanna calle it ;) ), you should give a final word based on one product. Perhaps try different ones, two or three, from those longer in the market to give a more sincerely opinion.
Vans/Switch was the best system ever! Unfortunately, they stop selling them. Actually I ride with Flow which is a good compromise.
If you are a skater, K2 Clickers help translate the skating feel to the parks. Your pops actually feel like an ollie and coming off airs feel more like launch ramps with the binding maneuverability.
That’s a cool way to look at it
waddup shredder, can you try out the Supermatics in a follow up?
are those rear entry?
I have the supermatics and they're 100% game changer. At least for me. They're dual entry, so basically rear entry but can also just be used as regular bindings. And you don't need any specific boots which was great, given that they're expensive. I could just continue using my existing boots and my girlfriend could even try them with her own boots. For any situation where you find yourself stepping in and out a lot in a short period of time, eg. Park runs to get back on the drag lift, it's complete game changer.
Totally agree I've been snowboarding for more than 20 years, and switched to the supermatics this year. I had some Raiden bindings and actually, even as a regular binding I prefer the supermatics. The step in thing is a total game changer, and the feeling when you ride is the same (in my case, better): absolutely zero compromission. I do mostly resort riding, back country and freeride in europe (pow as much as possible), some flat tricks and small jumps too. Like to ride swich and stuff and going fast: for all of those the supermatics are doing totally great. I will absolutely never go back@@SnippetsCutTheBull
I think you might find the Burtons more likeable given your want to have stiff bindings and soft boots. I use the Burton Step Ons and I really enjoy them. But to each his own. Whatever gets you having fun on the mountain.
Used Burton step ons for 4 seasons now. I wouldnt even look at other step in systems (exept supermatics) as they just look still to be stuck in the 1990s.( ive ridden since 92 and had lowbacks, baseless etc. strap binding back then and they were as bad bakc then.) Note aswell where you ride, my avg. hill here is 400m/1300ft, so it takes about 1 minute to blast down to elevator, which takes 3minutes back up, so the step ins are more than great system here. if i would live near a higher hill or mountain i probably would use strap bindings as there would be less strapping in and out. Yes for step ins.
My friend popped out of his Burton step-in bindings just cruising. I got to see him doing cartwheels with only one foot strapped in. When he came to a stop, he grabbed the knee of the unexpectedly loose leg in a ton of pain as the highback of the binding had struck it as he tumbled. Thankfully it wasn’t shattered but he was definitely done for the day/weekend!
Never happened to me. I"m guessing he wasn't 100% clipped in.
As the other commenter mentioned, it’s possible to be only partially clipped in, which is dangerous. There are three points that clip into the bindings, and you have to make sure you get all three before riding away.
@@dupersuper1000 he double-checks this every time, but yeah, it seems possible to think that you’re fully clipped in but in reality you’re actually in danger of your leg coming loose.
@@NoExperienceRequired I’ve definitely missed a clip a couple of times without realizing it at first. You just have to really pay attention to it, and even if you do it’s not always that easy to notice.
I did a double backflip today in the park with Step ins. Not just middle-aged guys who use them
I like my Burton step ons. I'm an intermediate rider. Getting out of them can be annoying sometimes
Not sold on stepons, or rear entry bindings. I bought a set of rear entry bindings, ran them about 4 to 5 xs and sold them, they are either too tight and hurt the bridge of my foot and are hard to get on. The alternitive is too lose..... At least you can slide your foot in the bindings. I am sticking with union
My back foot/push foot has popped out a couple of times, but it’s easy to catch and fix before shit hits the fan. It’s likely an issue of not locking in properly before the run, more than it is my boot actually popping out of the lock. So I boil it down to a rare user error
I ride K2 Clickers btw
the main reasons i dont swich to step ins is i think spending that much on something "clever" that is supposed to do the same thing isnt worth it, i like union binding and they dont make step ins, i like being able to ajust the responsiveness of my bindings due to how much i ratchet them, and i dont really care if putting on my snowboard is more convenient. they are cool they just don't seem worth the switch
I use step on's and they are fantastic, at least the Burton ones are.
You can adjust the high back dunce
I’ve been riding the step ons for 5 seasons now. Everyone knows about the pros but I have one con that might be a deal breaker for some or it could just be bad technique since I’m still noob (I ride about 25 times a season). The biggest issue I have with the step ons is that I am getting heel lift. I originally had the Burton swath boots which I really liked but the heel lift got so bad when trying things like nose rolls. I have tried j bars but they were uncomfortable. I eventually bought some photons with the softer flex (they are typically a stiffer boot) and they had a snugger strap. While the snugger straps has definitely lessened the heel lift, it’s still there, plus sometimes when one footing the boa pops open because it hits the binding. It’s super annoying because it doesn’t go loose all of the sudden and you don’t realize it’s popped open until you try something. I won’t go back to straps though, the ability to get off the chair and step in right away and beat the crowd or hit a side hit coming off the chair, with momentum, is nice. Plus, with straps I was constantly having to tighten them whereas with the step ons it’s pretty much a set it and forget it type thing. I can definitely understand why people like straps and that feeling of security you get plus the fact that your foot feels more secure but the concern about coming undone is a myth that needs to die. I’ve accidentally not clipped in all the way and still didn’t come out.
Oh and I ride all mountain and small park jumps.
Had step ons in 2021/22, the learning phase of them is the scariest, I had 2 user error ejections because I thought they were clicked in but turns out they were not completely. Ie: they are dangerous if you are stupid or new
your videos are f incredibles! hahaha love it
Thank you 🙏
You should try all of them step ins or ons bindings and not just one brand. That will make your video helpful than more biased. One more step to being a skier… wow.
ive had burton step ons for a while, loved em to death, but stepping in when your on a slight slope can be real akward. im gettin clew bindings so i can have the best of both worlds