You can toggle (by clicking the "+" sign) each year below to see the lists from past season's.
Of the 13 freeride bindings I rated:
FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Jones Apollo
- US
- CA
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Stiff (8.5/10)
Starting off the list at #5, we have the Jones Apollo bindings.
The Apollo are one of 3 pairs of Jones bindings and are the stiffer, more hard charging on the three.
The Apollo has almost ridiculous shock absorption, helped from the footbed, skate tech and bushings in combo.
But it's not just shock absorption that make these great freeride bindings - they are also super responsive and can really handle big carves and bombing at speed, really well - and when you're charging, they are one of the best at absorbing chatter along the way.
Score Breakdown for the Apollo
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
- US
- CA
Smart rating score: 86.6/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
Next we have, at #4, the Salomon Quantum.
A nice stiff flexing binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong, have good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast and riding big mountain.
They come in at a reasonable (less than the average for this category) price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
Score Breakdown for the Quantum
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.0 | 6/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.6/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Union Atlas FC
- US
- CA
Smart rating score: 90.7/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Coming in at #2 is the Union Atlas FC.
The Atlas FC are a stiffened up version of the Union Atlas.
They've got you well covered in terms of response and charging, but they're also pretty comfortable at the same time, and all round are just quality bindings with no weaknesses.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas FC
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.5 | 7/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.7/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Rome Cleaver
- US
- CA
- UK/EU
Smart rating score: 91.8/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
I got the chance to try the Rome Cleaver for the first time last winter. And they didn't disappoint!
These bindings have ultra adjustability - more than any other freeride binding that I've tested. Add to that great shock absorption and board feel plus an ability to lay into really deep carves and bomb at whatever speed you can throw at them, and you've got yourself a beast of a freeride binding.
Score Breakdown for the Cleaver
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 31.5/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 9/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.8/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XV
- US
- CA
Smart rating score: 92.3/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
And, finally, the #1 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
The XVs are light, stiff and just respond like a dream - without feeling like tanks at the same time, when you're riding a bit slower.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and need something that can power a stiff and aggressive board, and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
Typical of Flux bindings, the XVs have a firm locked-in feel with great ankle support. Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
And they're cheaper than the average price of all the bindings I rated for this list, so they're great value for money too. They're not cheap in general, but for bindings in this category, they are one of the less pricey options.
Score Breakdown for the XV
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.3/100 |
Of the 11 freeride bindings I rated:
FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: NOW O-Drive
Smart rating score: 84.5/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Starting off the list in #5 is the NOW O-Drive.
Really stiff and super responsive, the O-Drive is a great option for those hard chargers that want to bomb and carve aggressively.
They have next level shock absorption which comes from both the padding in the footbed, the "Skate Tech" hinge and the bushings.
Score Breakdown for the O-Drive
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.5/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Jones Apollo
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Stiff (8.5/10)
In at #4 we have the Jones Apollo bindings.
The Apollo are one of 3 pairs of Jones bindings and are the stiffer, more hard charging on the three.
Like the O-Drive above, the Apollo has almost ridiculous shock absorption, coming from the footbed, skate tech and bushings also.
But it's not just shock absorption that make these great freeride bindings - they are also super responsive and can really handle big carves and bombing at speed, really well - and when you're charging, they are one of the best at absorbing chatter along the way.
Score Breakdown for the Apollo
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Smart rating score: 86.6/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
Next we have, at #3, the Salomon Quantum.
A nice stiff flexing binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong, have good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast and riding big mountain.
They come in at a reasonable (less than the average for this category) price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
Score Breakdown for the Quantum
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.0 | 6/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.6/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Union Atlas FC
Smart rating score: 90.7/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Coming in, in the #2 position is the Union Atlas FC.
The Atlas FC are a stiffened up version of the Union Atlas.
They've got you well covered in terms of response and charging, but they're also pretty comfortable at the same time, and have really decent board feel too.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas FC
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 3.5 | 7/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.7/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XV
Smart rating score: 92.3/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
And, finally, the #1 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
The XVs are light, stiff and just respond like a dream - without feeling like tanks at the same time, when you're riding a bit slower.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and need something that can power a stiff and aggressive board, and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
Typical of Flux bindings, the XVs have a firm locked-in feel with great ankle support. Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
And they're cheaper than the average price of all the bindings I rated for this list, so they're great value for money too. They're not cheap in general, but for bindings in this category, they are one of the less pricey options.
Score Breakdown for the XV
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.3/100 |
Thanks for reading
So that’s my Top 5 Freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
Of the 10 freeride bindings I rated:
FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: NOW O-Drive
Price: $569
Smart rating score: 84.5/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Starting off the list in #5 is the NOW O-Drive.
Really stiff and super responsive, the O-Drive is a great option for those hard chargers that want to bomb and carve aggressively.
They have next level shock absorption which comes from both the padding in the footbed, the "Skate Tech" hinge and the bushings.
Score Breakdown for the O-Drive
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.5/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Jones Apollo
Price: $499
Smart rating score: 85.1/100
Flex: Stiff (8.5/10)
In at #4 we have the Jones Apollo bindings.
The Apollo are one of 2 pairs of Jones bindings and are the stiffer, more hard charging on the two.
Like the O-Drive above, the Apollo has almost ridiculous shock absorption, coming from the footbed, skate tech and bushings also.
But it's not just shock absorption that make these great freeride bindings - they are also super responsive and can really handle big carves and bombing at speed, really well - and when you're charging, they are one of the best at absorbing chatter along the way.
Score Breakdown for the Apollo
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 85.1/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Price: $399
Smart rating score: 86.6/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
Next we have, at #3, the Salomon Quantum.
A nice stiff flexing binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong, have good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast and riding big mountain.
They come in at a reasonable (less than the average for this category) price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
Score Breakdown for the Quantum
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.0 | 6/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.6/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Union Atlas FC
Price: $549
Smart rating score: 90.7/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Coming in, in the #2 position is the Union Atlas FC.
The Atlas FC are new for 2021 and are a stiffened up version of the newly rebuilt Union Atlas.
They've got you well covered in terms of response and charging, but they're also pretty comfortable at the same time, and have really decent board feel too.
Score Breakdown for the Atlas FC
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 3.5 | 7/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.7/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XV
Price: $399
Smart rating score: 92.3/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
And, finally, the #1 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
The XVs are light, stiff and just respond like a dream - without feeling like tanks at the same time, when you're riding a bit slower.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and need something that can power a stiff and aggressive board, and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
Typical of Flux bindings, the XVs have an extremely firm locked-in feel with great ankle support. Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
And they're cheaper than the average price of bindings of all the bindings I rated for this list, so they're great value for money too. They're not cheap in general, but for bindings in this category, they are one of the less pricey options.
Score Breakdown for the XV
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.3/100 |
Thanks for reading
So that’s my Top 5 Freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
>>TOP 5 FREERIDE BINDINGS (Latest Season)
Of the 11 freeride bindings I rated:
FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: NOW O-Drive
Price: $499
Smart rating score: 86.6/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Starting off the list in #5 is the NOW O-Drive.
Really stiff and super responsive, the O-Drive is a great option for those hard chargers that want to bomb and carve aggressively.
They have next level shock absorption which comes from both the padding in the footbed and the "Skate Tech" hinge. Uncompromising yet comfortable and absorbs shock from landings and chatter better than most.
Score Breakdown for the O-Drive
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 10/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 2.5 | 5/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.6/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Price: $399
Smart rating score: 87.1/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
Next we have, at #4, the Salomon Quantums.
A nice stiff flexing binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong, have good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast and riding big mountain.
They come in at a reasonable price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
Score Breakdown for the Quantum
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 3.0 | 6/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.1/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Union Ultra
Price: $449
Smart rating score: 87.1/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
In at #3 we have Union’s Ultra bindings.
The Ultra FC (which used to be in this list is no more) and hasn't really been directly replaced. The new Forged Force in the 2020 line is different enough to not be a direct replacement. The Ultra changed enough for 2020, to be moved into this category.
The 2020 Ultra features a stiffer base plate than it had in previous models and overall feels a little stiffer (I used to rate it 7/10 in flex).
The Ultra is one of those bindings that manages to combine great response with great board feel - and does it all with good shock absorption and in an overall very comfortable package.
Add good adjustability and ankle support to the mix and you have an all-round quality binding for charging hard.
Score Breakdown for the Ultra
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.5 | 31.5/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.1/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Burton X-Base
Smart rating score: 90.3/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Coming in, in the #2 position is the Burton X-Base!
If you really have no issues with how much you spend on your bindings, then the X-Base are going to be one of the ultimate freeride bindings.
But a warning – these things don’t come cheap!
Super light weight, hyper responsive and not a weakness in sight.
If you’re looking for something to really bomb down the mountain and need something that responds super-fast and can handle the stiffest, most aggressive boards, the X Base is that binding.
On top of that, the X Base have really awesome board feel too.
The X-Bases comes in both Re:Flex (for standard 4 hole binding mounting systems) and EST (to fit Burton’s Channel system). The EST will have a sightly different feel due to the way it mounts to the board.
Score Breakdown for the X-Base Re:Flex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 8/10 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.5 | 9/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.3/100 |
Score Breakdown for the X-Base EST
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 3.0 | 6/10 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 10/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.2/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XV
Price: $395
Smart rating score: 91.9/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
And, finally, the #1 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
The XVs are light, stiff and just respond like a dream - without feeling like tanks at the same time.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and need something that can power a stiff and aggressive board, and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
Typical of Flux bindings, the XVs have an extremely firm locked-in feel with great ankle support. Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
And they're cheaper than the average price of bindings of all the bindings I rated for this list, so they're great value for money too. They're not cheap in general, but for bindings in this category, they are one of the less pricey options.
Score Breakdown for the XV
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 5.0 | 35/35 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 5/10 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.9/100 |
Thanks for reading
So that’s my Top 5 Freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
>>TOP 5 FREERIDE BINDINGS (Latest Season)
Of the 11 freeride bindings I rated:
FREERIDE BINDING #5
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 86.0/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
The first bindings we’ll look at, in at #5, are the Salomon Quantums.
A nice stiff flexed binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong and are highly adjustable (so long as you’re not concerned with being able to adjust the forward lean), have pretty good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast and riding big mountain.
They come in at a reasonable price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
Score Breakdown for the Quantum
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shock Absorption | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Comfort | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Board Feel | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.0/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #4
Bindings: Union Ultra FC
Price: $549
Smart rating score: 87.6/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
In the #4 spot we have Union’s Ultra FC bindings.
These bindings might cost as much as a lot of snowboards – but you get something super high-tech for that money.
Lightness wasn’t a factor for the scores here, but if it was the Ultra FC would score the highest in that area - they are super light.
So if you’re looking for bindings that are not only super-responsive, comfortable, and providing of awesome board feel but are also super light (making your overall ride more snappy and nice when on the lifts, or hiking), then the Ultra FCs should be high on your list.
Score Breakdown for the Ultra FC
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Shock Absorption | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Comfort | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Board Feel | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.6/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #3
Bindings: Flux TM
Price: $285
Smart rating score: 89.2/100
Flex: Stiff (8/10)
Flux are just good at making responsive bindings, IMO. And the TMs are no different. They might be a bit heavier and ever so slightly softer flexing than their older brother, the XV (see #1), but the TMs are almost as responsive – and have that same board feel.
The TMs are the cheapest on this list by a good margin too. So, if you're looking for this type of binding at a reasonable price (almost $100 cheaper than the average price), then look no further.
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 if you're looking for a stiff, responsive bindings with great ankle support.
Score Breakdown for the TM
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Ankle Support | 5.0 | 15/15 |
Shock Absorption | 2.5 | 5/10 |
Comfort | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Board Feel | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.2/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #2
Bindings: Burton X-Base
Price: $549
Smart rating score: 90.3/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
Coming in, in the #2 position is the Burton X-Base!
If you really have no issues with how much you spend on your bindings, then the X-Base are going to be one of the ultimate freeride bindings.
But a warning – these things don’t come cheap!
Super light weight, hyper responsive and not a weakness in sight.
If you’re looking for something to really bomb down the mountain and need something that responds super-fast and can handle the stiffest, most aggressive boards, the X Base is that binding.
On top of that, the X Base have really awesome board feel too, so that you can have your bindings flexing naturally with your board.
The X-Bases comes in both Re:Flex (for standard 4 hole binding mounting systems) and EST (to fit Burton’s Channel system). The EST will have a sightly different feel due to the way it mounts to the board.
Score Breakdown for the X-Base Re:Flex
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Ankle Support | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shock Absorption | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Comfort | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Board Feel | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.3/100 |
Score Breakdown for the X-Base EST
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Ankle Support | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shock Absorption | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Comfort | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Board Feel | 5.0 | 10/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.2/100 |
FREERIDE BINDING #1
Bindings: Flux XV
Price: $395
Smart rating score: 91.9/100
Flex: Stiff (9/10)
And, finally, the #1 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
These are like TMs – but another step up in quality – lighter yet stiffer, we’re getting into some serious space age stuff here. You do pay more for them than you do for the TMs but they’re still only just above the average price for freeride bindings, so still completely reasonable for what they are.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and need something that can power a stiff and aggressive board, and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
Typical of Flux bindings, the SVs have an extremely firm locked-in feel with great ankle support. Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
Score Breakdown for the XV
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Response | 5.0 | 35/35 |
Adjustability | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
Ankle Support | 5.0 | 15/15 |
Shock Absorption | 2.5 | 5/10 |
Comfort | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Board Feel | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Entry/Exit | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.9/100 |
Thanks for reading
So that’s my Top 5 Freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
NOTE: This is a past seasons top 5. For the latest season's Top 5 Freeride Bindings list, check out the link below:
Of the 10 freeride bindings I rated:
- The average score was 85.5/100
- The highest score was 92.5/100
- The lowest score was 76.9/100
- The average price was $397
Men’s Freeride Binding #5
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 86.0/100
Flex: Stiff (8 out of 10)
The first bindings we’ll look at, in at #5, are the Salomon Quantums.
A nice stiff flexed binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong and are highly adjustable (so long as you’re not concerned with being able to adjust the forward lean), have pretty good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast especially through trees, down chutes, steeps etc.
They come in at a reasonable price too (as far as freeride bindings go anyway!)
The Quantum’s Score Breakdown
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Board Feel: | 3.0 | 6/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 86.0/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #4
Bindings: Union Ultra FC
Price: $519
Smart rating score: 87.6/100
Flex: Stiff (8 out of 10)
In the #4 spot we have Union’s Ultra FC bindings.
These bindings might cost as much as a lot of snowboards – but you get something super high-tech for that money.
Lightness wasn’t a factor for the scores here, but if it was the Ultra FC would score highly in that area.
So if you’re looking for bindings that are not only super-responsive, comfortable, and providing of awesome board feel but are also super light (making your overall ride more snappy and nice when on the lifts, or hiking), then the Ultra FCs should be high on your list.
The Ultra FC’s Score Breakdown
tbody>
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 87.6/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #3
Bindings: Flux XF
Price: $295
Smart rating score: 90.9/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
At #3, we have the Flux XF.
These bindings are by far the best value for money on this list. They are the least expensive here by a good margin (and a good bit lower than the average price for freeride bindings) – but still have awesome performance. Price didn’t come into play here, so the XFs made #3 on their performance alone – the smaller price tag is just a bonus.
Slightly softer flexing and not quite as light as their super-hero older brothers (see #2), the XFs are still really stiff and super responsive but manage to give great board feel at the same time.
They have that great boot support that flux are known for and part of that comes down to the way they their ankle straps sit on the inside of the heel cup (most bindings they are on the outside).
The Score Breakdown for the XFs
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 5/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Board Feel: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 90.9/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #2
Bindings: Flux XV
Price: $385
Smart rating score: 91.9/100
Flex: Stiff (9 out of 10)
The #2 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
These are like XFs – but on some steriods – lighter yet stiffer, we’re getting into some serious space age stuff here. You do pay more for them than you do for the XFs but they’re still pretty close to the average price for freeride bindings, so still completely reasonable for what they are.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
These bindings are super responsive, with an extremely firm locked-in boot support feel.
Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
The XV’s Score Breakdown
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 5/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Board Feel: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 91.9/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #1
Bindings: Burton X-Base
Price: $549
Smart rating score: 92.5/100
Flex: Stiff (9 out of 10)
And in the #1 position is the Burton X-Base!
If you really have no issues with how much you spend on your bindings, then the X-Base are going to be the ultimate freeride bindings.
But a warning – these things don’t come cheap!
Super light weight, hyper responsive and not a weakness in sight.
If you’re looking for something to really bomb down the mountain, particularly through the backcountry, then look no further.
You get Burton’s typically brilliant adjustability (though I’ve rated them slightly less than some other Burton bindings, just because of the fact that the ankle and toe straps aren’t tool-less adjustable), shock absorption and comfort too and add to that a really firm supporting feel inside the binding and you are looking at some awesome freeriding bindings.
The X-Bases comes in both Re:Flex (for standard 4 hole binding mounting systems) and EST (to fit Burton’s Channel system). The EST will have a sightly different feel due to the way it mounts to the board.
The X Base’s Score Breakdown
Re:Flex score
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Comfort: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 92.5/100 |
EST score
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 30/30 |
| Adjustability: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Ankle Support: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Comfort: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Board Feel: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 5/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 90.3/100 |
I’m going to be honest, I wouldn’t spend this much on bindings – but if you want the ultimate and don’t mind paying for it, then go for it.
If you want something Burton Freeride but want to pay a little less, then the Genesis X is a good option. They’re more all-mountain to freeride, rather than pure freeride – but would still do a great job as a freeride binding.
Thanks for reading
So that’s my Top 5 Freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
NOTE: This list was for the 2017-18 season. For the latest Top 5 Freeride Bindings List, check out the link below:
>>Latest Season’s Top 5 Men’s Freeride Bindings
Of the 19 freeride bindings I rated:
- The average score was 78.3/100
- The highest score was 91.5/100
- The lowest score was 56.5/100
- The average price was $338
Men’s Freeride Binding #5
Bindings: Salomon Quantum
Price: $349
Smart rating score: 85/100
Flex: Stiff (8 out of 10)
The first bindings we’ll look at, in at #5, are the Salomon Quantums.
A nice stiff flexed binding to bomb the mountain hard and fast with.
These bindings will hold your boots nice and strong and are highly adjustable, with pretty good shock absorption and enough comfort to keep you riding all day.
But mostly this binding is super responsive which is exactly what you want when you’re riding hard and fast especially through trees, down chutes etc.
I had heaps of fun with this paired with the Salomon Man’s Board last spring.
The Quantum’s Score Breakdown
| 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: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Comfort: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
| TOTAL | 85.0/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #4
Bindings: Ride El Hefe
Price: $369
Smart rating score: 85.5/100
Flex: Stiff (8 out of 10)
In the #4 spot we have Ride’s El Hefe bindings.
Like with Salomon’s Quantums the El Hefe’s are super-responsive – just what you need for big mountain riding.
The El Hefe’s also absorb shock really well and have the comfort to keep you riding all day.
They may not have quite the same boot support or adjustability as others on this list but will still do a good job in those areas and more than makes up for it in responsiveness, comfort and shock absorption.
The El Hefe’s Score Breakdown
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Boot Support: | 3.0 | 9/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
| TOTAL | 85.5/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #3
Bindings: Flux XF
Price: $285
Smart rating score: 89/100
Flex: Medium-Stiff (8/10)
At #3, we have the Flux XF.
These bindings are by far the best value for money on this list. They are the least expensive here by a good margin (and a good bit lower than the average price for freeride bindings) – but still manage to have awesome performance. Price didn’t come into play here so the XFs made #3 on their performance alone – the smaller price tag is just a bonus.
Slightly softer flexing and not quite as light as their super-hero older brothers (see #2), the XFs are still really stiff and super responsive.
They have that great boot support that flux are known for and part of that comes down to the way they their ankle straps sit on the inside of the heel cup (most bindings they are on the outside).
The Score Breakdown for the XFs
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Boot Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
| Comfort: | 4.5 | 9/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| TOTAL | 89.0/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #2
Bindings: Flux XV
Price: $335
Smart rating score: 90.0/100
Flex: Stiff (10 out of 10)
The #2 spot goes to Flux’s XV bindings.
These are like XFs – but on some steriods – light yet stiffer, we’re getting into some serious space age stuff here. You do pay more for them than you do for the XFs but they’re still pretty close to the average price for freeride bindings, so still completely reasonable for what they are.
If you you like to ride hard and aggressive and don’t want to compromise on stiffness and response then the XV might be your ultimate bindings.
This get’s the stiffest rating possible, it’s super responsive, with an extremely firm locked-in boot support feel.
Add to that great comfort and a lot of tool-less adjustability and you have the near perfect freeride binding.
Whilst they may lack somewhat in shock absorption, these babies more than make up for it for that super aggressive rider looking for the ultimate in response and support.
The XV’s Score Breakdown
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
| Responsiveness: | 5.0 | 25/25 |
| Flex: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Adjustability: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Boot Support: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.0 | 4/5 |
| TOTAL | 90.0/100 |
Men’s Freeride Binding #1
Bindings: Burton X-Base
Price: $539
Smart rating score: 91.5/100
Flex: Stiff (9 out of 10)
And in the #1 position is the Burton X-Base!
If you really have no issues with how much you spend on your bindings, then the X-Base are going to be the ultimate freeride bindings.
But a warning – these things don’t come cheap!
Super light weight, hyper responsive and not a weakness in sight.
If you’re looking for something to really bomb down the mountain, particularly through the backcountry, then look no further.
You get Burton’s typically brilliant adjustability, shock absorption and comfort too and add to that a really firm supporting feel inside the binding and you are looking at the ultimate in freeriding bindings.
The X-Bases comes in both Re:Flex (for standard 4 hole binding mounting systems) and EST (to fit Burton’s Channel system). The EST will have a sightly different feel due to the way it mounts to the board.
The X Base’s Score Breakdown
Re:flex versions score
| 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: | 5.0 | 15/15 |
| Shock Absorption: | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| TOTAL | 91.5/100 |
EST score
| 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: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Comfort: | 5.0 | 10/10 |
| Entry/Exit: | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
| TOTAL | 85.5/100 |
I’m going to be honest, I wouldn’t spend this much on bindings – but if you want the ultimate and don’t mind paying for it, then go for it.
If you want something Burton Freeride but don’t want to pay for it, then the Genesis X is a good option. They’re more all-mountain to freeride, rather than pure freeride – but would still do a great job as a freeride binding. Unfortunately Burton haven’t released a 2017 model of the Diode this year, which was #1 here last year.
Thanks for reading
So that’s my top 5 freeride bindings. I hope this has been helpful in your search for bindings.
If you want to check out the latest season’s top freeride snowboard bindings, check out the link below:
>>Top 5 Freeride Snowboard Bindings (LATEST SEASON)
For the latest season's list, check out the link below.
>>TOP 5 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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