You can toggle (by clicking the "+" sign) each year below to see the lists from past season's.
Of 17 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #6=
Bindings: Salomon Highlander
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Starting off the list at #6, we have the Salomon Highlander.
The Highlander is an impressive binding that has that knack for hard, deep carves at speed, but is also really manageable at slower speeds.
Whilst there isn't any mini-disc or anything like that, the Highlanders also have really good board feel - part of that might be down to the flexible heel loop.
Whatever it is that makes this binding tick, it's got a great combination of all the factors that I tested for, for an all-round, comfortable, fun, yet responsive binding.
Score Breakdown for the Highlander
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #6=
Bindings: Union Atlas
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Next up we have the Union Atlas.
The Atlas are just an all-round quality set of bindings - with no weaknesses - and importantly for this category, have great responsiveness.
But they're also highly adjustable, compatible with pretty much every board out there, out of the box, and are really comfortable and damp. They don't have the same board feel as others on this list, but even that is still not bad.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Nidecker Supermatic
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 85.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
New for 2023, we have the Nidecker Supermatic.
If you're looking for a speed entry binding, but haven't taken to any of the other speed entry systems on the market, the Supermatic are worth looking into.
The way their speed entry system works is my new favorite among speed entry bindings. And more importantly, IMO, they have great performance.
You can lay down some deep carves in these bindings but they're still good at slower speeds. And they have really good absorption too to dampen those flat landings and chatter.
Score Breakdown for the Supermatic
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Burton Cartel X
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 87.8/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Coming in at #4, we have the Cartel X, the bigger brother of the longstanding Cartel.
It's got some good upgrades from the Cartel, the most important, for this list, being that it's stiffer and harder charging.
All round just a really good binding.
Like all higher end Burton bindings, the Cartel X comes in both a Re:Flex and an EST version. I have included scores for both below. I have included the Re:Flex model as the main entry to this list, because the EST is only compatible with Channel boards, but (IMO), the EST version is the best bet, if you do have a channel board.
Score Breakdown for the Cartel X Re:Flex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.8/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Cartel X EST
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 27/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.4/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Union Falcor
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 92.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7.5/10)
In at #3, we have the Union Falcor.
I’m big on board feel and the Falcor has awesome board feel – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have great response. And that response is explosive and lively.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a reasonable amount of stiffness, are nice and light, highly shock absorbing, have great response and still have awesome board feel (and score well in all the other important factors too), then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 27/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.0/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Rome Katana
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 92.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
I was stoked to get hold of a pair of 2023 Katana's - was looking forward to testing these for a while - and they didn't disapoint.
They are the most adjustable binding I've come across - you can adjust literally everything on these bad boys - but aside from that, they have great board feel, shock absorption and response, making these on the better buys, if you're looking for something with a mid-stiff flex.
Score Breakdown for the Katana
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XF
- US
- CA
Smart rating score: 93.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Finally, in at # 1, we have the Flux XF.
The XF are one of the best carving/turning bindings out there, IMO.
The XFs achieve that elusive balance of being super responsive, but without being unforgivingly stiff and still easy to manage at slower speeds. They also provide great board feel, great ankle support and are highly adjustable.
They give up a bit of shock absorption but apart from that they are about the perfect all-mountain-freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the XF
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.1/100 |
Of 15 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
O.k. let’s get straight into the top 5!
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Salomon Highlander
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Starting off the list at #4, we have the Salomon Highlander.
The Highlander is an impressive binding that has that knack for hard, deep carves at speed, but is also really manageable at slower speeds.
Whilst there isn't any mini-disc or anything like that, the Highlanders also have really good board feel - part of that might be down to the flexible heel loop.
Whatever it is that makes this binding tick, it's got a great combination of all the factors that I tested for, for an all-round, comfortable, fun, yet responsive binding.
Score Breakdown for the Highlander
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Union Atlas
Smart rating score: 85.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (6.5/10)
At #4, we have the Union Atlas.
The Atlas are just an all-round quality set of bindings - with no real weaknesses - and importantly for this category, have great responsiveness.
But they're also highly adjustable, compatible with pretty much every board out there, out of the box, and are really comfortable and damp. They don't have the same board feel as others on this list, but even that is still not bad.
The Atlas was been completely rebuilt for 2021 (no extra changes for 2022), but still retains it's overall feel, functionality and personality.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Burton Cartel X
Smart rating score: 87.8/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Coming in at #3, we have the Cartel X, the bigger brother of the longstanding Cartel.
It's got some good upgrades from the Cartel, the most important, for this list, being that it's stiffer and harder charging.
All round just a really good binding.
Like all higher end Burton bindings, the Cartel X comes in both a Re:Flex and an EST version. I have included scores for both below. I have included the Re:Flex model as the main entry to this list, because the EST is only compatible with Channel boards, but (IMO), the EST version is the best bet, if you do have a channel board.
Score Breakdown for the Cartel X Re:Flex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.8/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Cartel X EST
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 27/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.4/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Union Falcor
Smart rating score: 92.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7.5/10)
In at #2, we have the Union Falcor.
I’m big on board feel and the Falcor has awesome board feel – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have great response. And that response is explosive and lively.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a reasonable amount of stiffness, are nice and light, highly shock absorbing, have great response and still have awesome board feel (and score well in all the other important factors too), then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 27/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.0/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XF
Smart rating score: 93.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Taking over the # 1 spot this year, we have the Flux XF.
The XF are one of the best bindings out there, IMO.
The XFs achieve that elusive balance of being super responsive, but without being unforgivingly stiff and still easy to manage at slower speeds. They also provide great board feel, great ankle support and are highly adjustable.
They give up a bit of shock absorption but apart from that they are about the perfect all-mountain-freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the XF
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.1/100 |
Over To You
Thanks for reading and I hope this has narrowed down some great all-mountain-freeride binding options for you.
Of 16 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
O.k. let’s get straight into the top 5!
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Arbor Cypress
Price: $264
Smart rating score: 84.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Starting off the list at #5, we have the Arbor Cypress.
The Cypress are a solid choice, with great adjustability and good all-round quality, wrapped in a really reasonable price-tag.
Score Breakdown for the Cypress
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 3.5 | 7/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 3.0 | 3/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Salomon Highlander
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
In at #4, we have the Salomon Highlander.
The Highlander was new for 2020 and returns for 2021. It's an impressive binding that has that knack for hard, deep carves at speed, but is also really manageable at slower speeds.
Whilst there isn't any mini-disc or anything like that, the Highlanders also have really good board feel - part of that might be down to the flexible heel loop.
Whatever it is that makes this binding tick, it's got a great combination of all the factors that I tested for, for an all-round, comfortable, fun, yet responsive binding.
Score Breakdown for the Highlander
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Union Atlas
Price: $329
Smart rating score: 85.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (6.5/10)
At #3, we have the Union Atlas.
The Atlas are just an all-round quality set of bindings - with no real weaknesses - and importantly for this category, have great responsiveness.
But they're also highly adjustable, compatible with pretty much every board out there, out of the box, and are really comfortable and damp. They don't have the same board feel as others on this list, but even that is still not bad.
The Atlas has been completely rebuilt for 2021, but still retains it's overall feel, functionality and personality.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Flux XF
Price: $300
Smart rating score: 93.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
At #2, we have the Flux XF.
The XF are one of the best bindings out there, IMO.
The XFs achieve that elusive balance of being super responsive, but without being unforgivingly stiff and still easy to manage at slower speeds. They also provide great board feel, great ankle support and are highly adjustable.
They give up a bit of shock absorption but apart from that they are about the perfect all-mountain-freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the XF
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Union Falcor
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 94.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
And finally in the #1 spot, we have the Union Falcor.
I’m big on board feel and the Falcor has awesome board feel – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have the best response (equal with the XF) on this list. And that response is explosive and lively.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a reasonable amount of stiffness, are super light, have great response and still have awesome board feel (and score well in all the other important factors too), then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94.1/100 |
Over To You
Thanks for reading and I hope this has narrowed down some great all-mountain-freeride binding options for you.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
>>TOP 5 ALL-MOUNTAIN FREERIDE BINDINGS (Latest Season)
Of 14 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Union Atlas
Price: $309
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (6.5/10)
Starting off the list in #5 is the Union Atlas.
The Atlas are just an all-round quality set of bindings - with no real weaknesses - and importantly for this category, have great responsiveness.
But they're also highly adjustable, compatible with pretty much every board out there, out of the box, and are really comfortable and damp. They don't have the same board feel as others on this list, but even that is still not bad.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Salomon Highlander
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
In at #4, we have the Salomon Highlander.
The Highlander is new for 2020 and is an impressive binding that has that knack for hard, deep carves at speed, but is also really manageable at slower speeds.
Whilst there isn't any mini-disc or anything like that, the Highlanders also have really good board feel - part of that might be down to the flexible heel loop.
Whatever it is that makes this binding tick, it's got a great combination of all the factors that I tested for, for an all-round, comfortable, fun, yet responsive binding.
Score Breakdown for the Highlander
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Burton Genesis X
Price: $449
Smart rating score: 88.8/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Genesis (the version without the X) also made my list of the top all mountain bindings. So it’s no surprise that it’s bigger, bolder older brother makes this list.
With more stiffness and response than the Genesis it finds itself at home in this category. They’re not the most responsive bindings on this list – but they’re still really responsive and couple that nicely some awesome board feel and comfort.
As with most Burton bindings, you can get the Genesis X in both a Re:Flex model and an EST model.
Score Breakdown for the Genesis X
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 24/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.8/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Flux XF
Price: $299
Smart rating score: 93.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
At #2, we have the Flux XF.
The XF are one of the most value for money bindings out there - coming in well under the average price for this category. Price didn’t come into play here, so the XFs made #2 on their performance alone – the smaller price tag is just a bonus.
The XFs achieve that elusive balance of being super responsive, but without being unforgivingly stiff, and still providing great board feel.
They give up a bit of shock absorption but apart from that they are about the perfect all-mountain-freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the XF
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Union Falcor
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 94.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
And finally in the #1 spot, we have the Union Falcor.
I’m big on board feel and the Falcor has awesome board feel – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have the best response (equal with the XF) on this list.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a reasonable amount of stiffness, are super light, have great response and still have awesome board feel (and score well in all the other important factors too), then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 30/30 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94.1/100 |
Over To You
Thanks for reading and I hope this has narrowed down some great all-mountain-freeride binding options for you.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
>>TOP 5 ALL-MOUNTAIN FREERIDE BINDINGS (Latest Season)
Of 13 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Arbor Cypress
Price: $249
Smart rating score: 83.5/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Arbor have only been making bindings for a couple of years, but in that time they've created a great pair in the Cypress. There's room for improvement and it will be interesting to see how these improve over the next couple of years.
The biggest improvement necessary is with the Ratchet system, which makes it sticky and slow to put on and take off the straps.
But that's a small factor when you take into account that these bindings are nice and responsive, have good board feel and highly adjustable.
Plus, they are the cheapest bindings on this list by a good distance and more than $70 cheaper than the average price of the bindings I rated in this cateogory. So, if you can put up with those sticky ratchets and want a high performing binding for a good price, then these are great options.
Score Breakdown for the Cypress
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 4.0 | 24/30 |
Board Feel | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Adjustability | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Ankle Support | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shock Absorption | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Comfort | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Entry/Exit | 2.0 | 2/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.5/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Union Ultra
Price: $449
Smart rating score: 88.3/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The first of two Union offerings in this list, the Union Ultra, comes in at #4.
These certainly aren’t the cheapest going around – but they are some of the lightest (just 710 grams! - though I measured them at 780 grams but I included disc and screws and my measurements probably aren't as accurate! - either way the only bindings that I've measured as lighter are the Union Flite Pros).
Whilst they’re super-responsive, they also have great board feel and are really easy to butter – thanks in no small part to the mini-disc system which minimizes the dead-spot on the board and helps the board to flex more with the board, but at the same time they’ve got plenty of shock absorption.
So if you’ve got the cash to spend and you want a binding that’s not only light, comfortable and damp but that also has great board feel and response, then the Ultras are a great choice.
Score Breakdown for the Ultra
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 4.5 | 27/30 |
Board Feel | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Shock Absorption | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Comfort | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Burton Genesis X
Price: $449
Smart rating score: 91.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Genesis (the version without the X) also made my list of the top all mountain bindings. So it’s no surprise that it’s bigger, bolder older brother makes this list.
With more stiffness and response than the Genesis it finds itself at home in this category. They’re not the most responsive bindings on this list – but they’re still really responsive and couple that nicely with the same awesome board feel and comfort that the non-X Genesis have.
As with most Burton bindings, you can get the Genesis X in both a Re:Flex model and an EST model.
Score Breakdown for the Genesis X
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 4.0 | 24/30 |
Board Feel | 5.0 | 15/15 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shock Absorption | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Comfort | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.0/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Flux XF
Smart rating score: 93.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
At #2, we have the Flux XF.
The XF are one of the most value for money bindings out there - coming in well under the average price for this category. Price didn’t come into play here, so the XFs made #2 on their performance alone – the smaller price tag is just a bonus.
The XFs achieve that elusive balance of being super responsive, but without being unforgivingly stiff, and still providing great board feel.
They give up a bit of shock absorption but apart from that they are about the perfect all-mountain-freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the XF
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 30/30 |
Board Feel | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Adjustability | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Ankle Support | 5.0 | 15/15 |
Shock Absorption | 2.5 | 5/10 |
Comfort | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Union Falcor
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 94.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Falcor are the replacement in the Union line for the old T Rice. But they’re not just a name change – they’ve completely redesigned this binding (and for the better).
One of the major upgrades, which makes this binding a step above the old T Rice, IMO – is that it has Union’s mini-disc. This improves the board feel of the Falcor over the T Rice and over other Union offerings for this category like the Atlas.
I’m big on board feel so that’s a big tick in my books – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have the best response (equal with the XF) on this list.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a reasonable amount of stiffness, are super light, have great response and still have awesome board feel, then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 30/30 |
Board Feel | 5.0 | 15/15 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Shock Absorption | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Comfort | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94.1/100 |
Over To You
Thanks for reading and I hope this has narrowed down some great all-mountain-freeride binding options for you.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
Of 16 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
- The average score was 79.8/100
- The highest score was 94.7/100 (see below)
- The lowest score was 56.4/100
- The average price was $283
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #5
Bindings: Salomon Defender
Price: $279
Smart rating score: 81.9/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Salomon Defenders are the 2nd most affordable bindings in this list (after #4) and come in at well under the average price for this category of bindings.
But it’s not just price that the Defender bindings have going for them. They also have ample response for quick edge-to-edge transition, and they offer good boot support and are one of the easiest bindings around to adjust to get that perfect fit.
Score Breakdown for the Defenders
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Board Feel: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 81.9/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #4
Bindings: Flux TT
Price: $200
Smart rating score: 84.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The TTs are the cheapest binding on this list and come in well under the average price for this type of binding.
You get great response and an overall decent quality binding for a small price.
If you can handle a bit of a lack of shock absorption but want something with decent response, a low price-tag and something that will provide great ankle support, then the TTs are a great fit.
Score Breakdown for the Flux TT
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Board Feel: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 5/10 |
| Comfort: | 3.0 | 6/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 84.0/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #3
Bindings: Flux TM
Price: $285
Smart rating score: 92.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Flux are just good at making responsive bindings, IMO. And the TMs are no different. They might be a bit heavier and slightly softer flexing than their older brothers, the XF and XV, but the TMs are almost as responsive – and have that same board feel.
They are the top responding bindings on this list (along with #2 below).
If shock absorption is a big deal to you, and you don’t have high shock absorbing boots to compensate, then they may not be perfect for you, but otherwise these are a great choice for all-mountain freeride style riding.
Score Breakdown for the Flux TM
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Board Feel: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 5/10 |
| Comfort: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 92.0/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #2
Bindings: Union Falcor
Price: $329
Smart rating score: 93.6/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Falcor are the replacement in the Union line for the old T Rice. But they’re not just a name change – they’ve completely redesigned this binding.
One of the major upgrades, which makes this binding a step above the old T Rice, IMO – is that it has Union’s mini-disc. This improves the board feel of the Falcor over the T Rice and over other Union offerings for this category like the Atlas.
I’m big on board feel so that’s a big tick in my books – but even more importantly for this category, the Falcor’s have the best response (equal with the TM) on this list.
So, if you’re looking for bindings that have a good bit of stiffness, are super light, have great response and still have good board feel, then these are a great option.
Score Breakdown for the Falcor
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 93.6/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #1
Bindings: Burton Genesis X
Price: $449
Smart rating score: 94.7/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Genesis (the version without the X) also made my list of the top all mountain bindings. So it’s no surprise that it’s bigger, better older brother tops this list.
With more response than the Genesis but all else being just as high quality, the Genesis X scores well in every area that I rated.
They’re not the most responsive bindings on this list – but they’re still really responsive and they don’t have a single weakness that I could detect.
As with most Burton bindings, you can get the Genesis X in both a Re:Flex model and an EST model.
Score Breakdown for the Genesis X
Genesis X Re:Flex
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 94.7/100 |
Genesis X EST
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 91.5/100 |
Over To You
Thanks for reading and I hope this has narrowed down some great all-mountain-freeride binding options for you.
NOTE: This list was for the 2017-18 season. For the latest Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings List, check out the link below:
>>Latest Season’s Top 5 Men’s All-Mtn-Freeride Bindings
Of 16 different all-mountain-freeride bindings that I rated:
- The average score was 79.7/100
- The highest score was 92.8/100 (see below)
- The lowest score was 58.8/100
- The average price was $315
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #5
Bindings: Salomon Defender
Price: $269
Smart rating score: 82.0/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
The Salomon Defenders are the most affordable bindings in this list and come in at well under the average price for this category of bindings.
But it’s not just price that the Defender bindings have going for them. They also have ample response for quick edge-to-edge transition, and they offer good boot support and are really easy to adjust to get that perfect fit.
Score Breakdown for the Defenders
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Boot Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
| Butterability: | 3.0 | 3/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 82.0/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #4
Bindings: Ride Capo
Price: $329
Smart rating score: 87.1/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
Like the Defenders, the Capos also come in at a price that is under the average for this category. So they’re another great option if you have a smaller budget but still want hard charging responsive bindings.
And response is something that the Capos have in spades!
One thing that’s awesome about these bindings is that they also manage to be really damp and shock absorbing but responsive at the same time.
Score Breakdown for the Capo
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Boot Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Butterability: | 3.0 | 3/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 87.1/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #3
Bindings: Union Ultra FC (Forged Carbon)
Price: $519
Smart rating score: 89.7/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
Not for the budget conscious – but definitely for the performance conscious who want the best bindings for them, with price being no object.
This bindings absolutely kill it! They are super responsive, but at the same time really comfortable and crazy light – they weigh in at only 740 grams!
If you want the future in bindings now and aren’t afraid to pay the price, check out Unions FC bindings.
Score Breakdown for the Ultra FCs
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Boot Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Butterability: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 89.7/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #2
Bindings: Union T.Rice
Price: $319
Smart rating score: 89.7/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
If you want something Union (a smart move in my opinion) but don’t want the price tag of the Forged Carbon’s, then the T.Rice is the binding for you.
If response, comfort, easy adjustability and plenty of shock absorption is what you look for in your bindings, the T.Rice have it. They are definitely for charging hard but you can also still butter with these bindings when you want to.
Score Breakdown for the T.Rice
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Boot Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Butterability: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 89.7/100 |
All-Mountain-Freeride Binding #1
Bindings: Burton Genesis X
Price: $439
Smart rating score: 92.8/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
The Genesis (the version without the X) also made my list of the top all mountain bindings. So it’s no surprise that it’s bigger, better older brother tops this list.
With more response than the Genesis but all else being just as high quality, the Genesis X scores well in every area that I rated.
They’re not the most responsive bindings on this list – but they’re still really responsive and they don’t have a single weakness that I could detect.
As with most Burton bindings, you can get the Genesis X in both a Re:Flex model and an EST model.
Score Breakdown for the Genesis X
Genesis X Re:Flex
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Boot Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Butterability: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 92.8/100 |
Genesis X EST
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 4.0 | 20/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Boot Support: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Butterability: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 89.2/100 |
Latest All-Mountain Freeride Bindings List
Check out the link below for the latest season’s top 5 all-mountain-freeride binding list.
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Snowboard Bindings (LATEST SEASON)
For the latest season's list, check out the link below.
>>TOP 5 ALL-MOUNTAIN FREERIDE SNOWBOARD BINDINGS (LATEST SEASON)
Buying Past Season Models
Often models don't change that much from year to year so if you can find a past season model, it will likely be close enough to the latest model but you can get it cheaper, if available and in a suitable size for you. For past year's models check out the links below to see if they still have any left.
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