This page will outline what I consider to be the best all mountain bindings for women for the 2020/21 season.
Each binding is assessed as to how well they perform specifically as all-mountain bindings for women, using my unique rating system.
All-Mountain bindings should be able to handle anything you throw at them be it freestyle riding, riding the groomers or riding the backcountry.
Of the 14 different women's all-mountain bindings that I looked at:
Right, let’s get into the top 5.
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN BINDING #5
Bindings: Union Trilogy
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Smart rating score: 84.9/100
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Starting the list at #5, we have Union’s Trilogy bindings.
With women’s specific base plate and highback this binding offers up great all round performance for women. And comes at a really reasonable price for the quality you get from it.
And if response is what you're looking for they equal or beat every other binding on this list for response. One of, if not the, most responsive binding at this price point.
For more check out the video and the Trilogy's score breakdown below
Score Breakdown for the Trilogy
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 16/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 16/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
COMFORT | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.9/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN BINDING #4
Bindings: Flux GS
- CANADA
Smart rating score: 84.9/100
Flex: Medium (5/10)
The Flux GS might lack somewhat in the shock absorption department but they more than make up for it everywhere else.
Really good response that belies their flex, great ankle support, typical of Flux bindings and super comfortable.
The kind of binding that you can use across multiple boards and that you can use anywhere on the groomers, in the backcountry and in the park.
Score Breakdown for the GS
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 16/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 16/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 5.0 | 10/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.9/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN BINDING #3
Bindings: Burton Lexa
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Smart rating score: 87.1/100
Flex: Medium (6/10)
And in at #3, we have Burton's Lexa bindings.
The Lexa offer up some really nice features, particularly for the price point.
They provide a good amount of response, are super-comfortable and really have no weaknesses. If you're looking for a binding on the stiffer end of medium, these are worth checking out - and they down in price for 2021 (something that doesn't happen very often!)
For more check out the video and the Lexa's score breakdown below
This video is for the 2020 model. The 2021 is a little different.
Score Breakdown for the Lexa
Like most Burton bindings they come in an EST version, which fits Burton’s Channel System and the Re:Flex version (which fits 2 x 4 and 4 x 4 systems in addition to as the Channel system).
Lexa Re:Flex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 3.5 | 14/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 4.0 | 16/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.1/100 |
Lexa EST
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 4.0 | 16/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 3.5 | 7/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.2/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN BINDING #2
Bindings: K2 Hue
- CANADA
Smart rating score: 87.6/100
Flex: Medium (6/10)
The K2 Hue is a decently responsive binding with great board feel (thanks in part to K2's mini-disc and Tripod Chassis System).
It's like a women's specific hybrid of the K2 Lien AT and K2 Lineup, offering the perfect sweet spot between freestyle and freeride, able to excel anywhere on the mountain and do anything.
It's a great option for that do-it-all one quiver snowboard or as bindings that can accommodate a multi-board quiver (if you don't want to have multiple pairs of bindings).
Check out the Video to Learn more about the Hue
Score Breakdown for the Hue
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 3.5 | 14/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
COMFORT | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.6/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN BINDING #1
Bindings: Burton Escapade
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Smart rating score: 93.0/100
Flex: Medium (5/10)
And the #1 spot goes to the Burton Escapades!
Apart from being a little less responsive than some of the bindings on this list, the Escapade is pretty close to the ideal women’s all mountain binding.
They are versatile enough to do everything you want from the park to the backcountry and everything in between.
They have the luxury of comfort to keep you riding all day comfortably, awesome shock absorption to absorb all the bumps and jumps, great adjustability, the brilliant ratchet system that Burton is famous for, and nice firm boot support to keep you securely locked in.
Check out the Video for more about the Escapades
This video is a couple of years old now, but not heaps has changed with them.
Score Breakdown for the Escapade
Like most Burton bindings they come in an EST version, which fits Burton’s Channel System and the Re:Flex version (which fits 2 x 4 and 4 x 4 systems in addition to as the Channel system).
Escapade Re:Flex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 3.0 | 12/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
COMFORT | 5.0 | 15/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 93.0/100 |
Escapade EST
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
RESPONSE | 3.0 | 12/20 |
BOARD FEEL | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SHOCK ABSORPTION | 4.0 | 12/15 |
ADJUSTABILITY | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
COMFORT | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
ANKLE SUPPORT | 4.0 | 8/10 |
ENTRY/EXIT | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.8/100 |
Thanks for Reading
I hope this has helped you to narrow down your options for your next pair of bindings if you’re an all-mountain rider or want one pair of bindings to fit multiple boards.
Check out the links under each binding to learn more and for current prices and availability.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking for bindings that would work with my gear. I currently have size 6.5 32 STW BOA boots and a 142cm Never Summer Infinity board. I’m a beginner/intermediate rider. I was looking at some Burton Bindings, however when I look at the sizing, Burton’s binding for size Small is (4-6) and Medium is (6-8). Should I buy a small or a medium binding since my boot is in-between sizes. Also, what are your recommendations for bindings?
Thanks!
Hi Linda
For Burton bindings with 6.5 STW Boas, you should go Medium for sure.
For matching with the Infinity, I would look at either the Scribe or the Escapade. The Escapade are the nicer bindings, but also considerably more expensive and both would be a good match with the Infinity. If money isn’t a big consideration, then I’d go Escapade. But the Scribe would definitely do the job and for a significantly more friendly price.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!!!
Thanks so much for your helpful reviews! I’ve been riding lexa bindings on a feelgood camber but I find that it’s a lot of effort off-piste, so this year I got a storyboard for powder-days. Which bindings do you think would match the story? I’m debating between lexa x and the escapades. I want to be more confident off-piste/ powder/ ungroomed runs…and hopefully learn switch to take my riding to the next level. Any advice would be appreciated!
Hi Kay
Thanks for your message.
What I would do is get the Lexa X but put them on your Feelgood and use the Lexa on the Story Board.
Hope this helps
THANKS Nate!!
You’re very welcome!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your articles they have been extremely helpful with my new snowboarding journey!
I’ve gone snowboarding about 4 times so I’m definitely still a beginner, however I want to start to take up snowboarding as a winter hobby and do it more regularly. I recently bought a Salomon Wonder 144, and Ride Hera boots in a size 6.5, and am about 130lbs. I’m looking more into all mountain bindings, but something I can progress in.
What bindings would you recommend?
I’ve been doing some research, as well was suggested a few styles from Union Juliet, Union Legacy, Salomon Hologram, Salomon Nova, and Ride CL-6.
Would any of those binding be good for what I currently have? Are there any other binding aside from what I mentioned you would recommend instead?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Brittney
Thanks for your message.
For the Wonder, I think around 5/10 to 6/10 flex would be a good match, and a good match to the boots too. As a beginner I would be erring on the softer side, so 5/10 probably the best bet. Everything you’ve got there would work for sure, but I would be leaning more to something like Juliet or Salamon District W or Salomon Mirage. Salomon Nova probably good too, but maybe even bordering on a little too soft. The Legacy would work for sure, but it’s just that little bit stiffer – but with the mini-disc it uses, it does make it easier to flex with the board, so it can feel a little softer than it is. The Burton Escapade Re:Flex and Flux GS from this list would also be really solid choices, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thank you for taking the time to reply back, really appreciate it!
I’m looking for cost friendly as well so the price of Union Juliet and Salomon Mirage are good, not fond of the hand and apple design with the Salomon District. Out of those two which would you say would be a better all mountain binding for me? I was also looking into the Union Trilogy, is that a possibility too, or would the previous two options be better?
Also, what size bindings do you think I would need? Since I have a 6.5 boot would I be a small, or medium seeing how I’m right on the cusp between both small and medium?
Hi Brittney
Both the Mirage and the Juliet would definitely work well. I would be leaning slightly to Mirage, but both are good bets, IMO.
The Trilogy is getting a bit on the stiff side for a beginner, IMO, so I would be leaning more to the other 2. And with the Trilogy it doesn’t have the mini-disc, so you feel that extra stiffness more than you would on the Legacy.
Size-wise, I would go small for Union with 6.5s. You could certainly still ride Mediums with that boot size, but I would err to Small. The only reason to consider Medium’s with 6.5s is that the baseplate length will probably work better with the Wonder 144, in terms of getting a little bit more leverage with the longer baseplate. But first and foremost you want the best boot fit in the bindings, which is likely to be the small.
For Salomon Small for sure.
Okay thanks, this is very helpful. Sorry for so many questions I’m still new at this. Would you say the Mirage over the Juliet because it’s a bit more flexible since it’s also a good freestyle binding? So it’s not too advanced for me?
Hi Brittney
More just that it’s a little better quality. Both are a similar flex. The Mirage maybe marginally softer, but not by a lot. Neither too advanced, but yeah, just a little better in terms of quality, IMO, with the Mirage.
Hi! Thank you for your reviews. Can you suggest a binding for me? I am an intermediate to advanced rider and recently ordered a new board to replace my 20 year old equipment. The board I went with is Capita The Equalizer 142. I am 5′ and 108lbs. My current bindings are Burton Escapades that are over 15 years old… I love to ride aggressively and fast mostly groomers not by choice but because of where I live – sometimes I am a bit of playful and I am also teaching my kids often too so I do go a lot gentler with them. Thanks for any suggestions! I will also need boots at some point. The options sure have changed since I started!
Hi Cat
Thanks for your message.
With the Equalizer being a mid flexing board, I would be looking at putting on something around 5/10 to 6/10 in terms of flex. That should be a good match to the board. For your style and specs I think 5/10 is a good way to go. Should be stiff enough for when you want to charge on your own, but not so stiff that they’ll be a chore to ride slowly when you’re with the kids. You could go to 6, but for your specs I think 5/10 will feel stiff enough and match well with the board. 6/10 certainly wouldn’t be wrong, but I wouldn’t go stiffer than that – but also wouldn’t go softer than 5, if that makes sense.
So this list is definitely the right place, IMO.
My picks would be either go Escapade again or go Flux GS or Union Trilogy.
For boots, when you’re looking for them, I would go a similar flex. Some options for when you need them:
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your expertise and for taking the time to reply! – Cat
You’re very welcome Cat. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
I’m looking for some new bindings this year. I currently have an older model Burton escapade and while I find them super comfortable they aren’t as responsive as I’d like. I demo’d a set of flux bindings last year (can’t remember the model) and I loved how responsive they were but the shock absorption was pretty poor.
I’m looking for something that’s going to be as responsive as possible while still having decent shock absorption. I’ve read a lot about the Burton lexa, Union trilogy or union legacy. Those all seem like good options but wondering if you have an opinion of if one would be a better option for me? Im a confident intermediate rider, I’d say my style is all mountain but leaning more towards freeride than freestyle. I’m also on the lighter side so weight is a bit of a factor for me too. Thanks!
Hi Ali
Thanks for your message.
I find Union bindings tend to be a little more responsive than Burton (flex for flex), so I would be leaning towards Trilogy or Legacy. Between the Trilogy and Legacy:
– Legacy maybe slightly more responsive overall – but it’s more of a springy response versus more of a smooth response on the Trilogy, if that makes sense.
– Legacy a little lighter
– Legacy a little more board feel – a little more flexing with the board versus the Trilogy which, still has decent board feel, but moves less with the board
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate. Wanted your thoughts on the GS bindings. I was recommended the GX/GS mainly because they come in an XS (after a few years finally discovered I’m a size 4 boot, which means all my current NOW bindings are too big). I’m intermediate progressing to advance and I used the Vetta and Conda bindings previously. Because I’m 4″11 and 100lbs, I’m wondering if the GX would be too stiff in general? I mainly ride in Australia, and Japan for the powder. The Conda was obviously stiffer than the Vettas but I also don’t know how accurate my feel was because I was wearing boots a whole size too big. Last season I used Bent Metal Upshots – they were big but adjustable unlike the NOWs.
Hi Jo
Thanks for your message.
I would probably be leaning towards the GS for you. Mainly because of your weight. The GX aren’t out of the question but I would be leaning GS for you. It also depends on the board/s you ride though. If you’re riding a stiffer board, then that might make the GX a better option. If you can let me know the board you ride and it’s length that would be great.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate. I have a few boards, Jones Twin sister in 143 (it’s an older model so they didn’t have the 140 then, I do feel like I should size down), Salomon Pillowtalk 143, huck knife grom 135. I generally find that medium flex boards feel stiff to me, probably because of my weight, and have been looking more into kids boards lately, but also don’t want to miss out on the tech. If you have any suggestions for boards/lengths as well, please let me know.
Hi Jo
For those boards I would be leaning GS.
In terms of sizing, I would be looking at something 137-139 for your specs. Not surprised you find boards around that 143 stiffer than what they might otherwise be. There are certainly still women’s boards in the size range. In terms of the type of board you’re looking for, can let me know a little about how you like to ride. e.g. do you ride park or any kind of tricks or side hits or the likes? Do you like to ride fast or more casual? Do you like to really lean into your carves or turn more casually? Powder? Trees? etc. Will help to narrow down a board option for you.
Also if you do ride park, it might be that you’re happy riding the Huck Knife Grom for park and want something more freeride oriented for your other board?
Hi Nate,
Yes you are correct re: huck knife grom for park. I’m not very good at park, only just starting out and I think it will be a while before I get any good haha.
Overall I’m not a very aggressive rider, I’d say generally lean more casual. I find that when I try to ride fast, it’s never really that fast compared to others (is this a weight thing?). I’ve been carving more as my riding improved over the years, but for a while I found it took a lot of effort and often wondered if it was the board or bad technique (probably technique lol)
Yes to powder and trees – I try to make it Japan yearly.
Hi Jo
I think an easy going freeride board would work well or an all-mountain board that’s leaning a little freeride, to give you something for a bit more performance in powder – and if you’re riding trees, then I would definitely try to go a little shorter than what you have now. Yes, that does typically mean sacrificing a little in terms of float, but for your specs, I don’t think you would sacrifice too much in terms of float, and the gain in maneuverability would outweigh that, IMO.
Also with your boot size, going narrower is a good idea too. Something like the Twin Sister is quite wide, especially for your boot size, so that would also make it harder to turn.
Some options that could work:
– GNU Gloss 140: It’s a softer flexing board, but it could work and is narrower and shorter overall versus what you have.
– GNU Ladies 139.5 – it’s not super freeride oriented, but it’s quite narrow and better than average in powder for an all-mountain-freestyle board
– Burton Day Trader 140 – it’s not super narrow, but very freeride oriented and still smaller overall versus what you have
– Salomon Wonder 140 – again not super narrow, but overall smaller than what you have – and a good all-rounder
Hey Nate. Would you suggest something like the space metal fantasy for a park board over the huck knife? seems like they’re releasing a new model in 139cm and will be narrower than the huck knife but a bit longer (vs 135cm).
Hi Jo
Good to hear from you again.
Assuming the Huck Knife Grom is similar to the men’s Huck Knife (but just in smaller sizing), then I would say the Space Metal Fantasy is an easier, less aggressive option – and very park oriented for sure.
If it comes out in a 139, and assuming it’s around that 228/229 waist width. Then I think that would be an appropriate size for you. I think ideally you could go a little shorter for a dedicated park board, but certainly going narrower will help. And it’s something that should feel softer and more playful than the Huck Knife Grom (making assumptions) even in 139 versus 135.
Thanks for your advice Nate. I have since purchased the GS, but it’ll be a while until I can try it out. Would you happen to know how the GNU ladies choice would compare to the Capita Equalizer?
Hi Jo
I would say the following between the Equalizer and Ladies Choice:
– Similar flex – around 5/10.
– Equalizer a little better for carving (like proper carves as opposed to just regular turns), speed and powder. Certainly not worlds apart, but a little better at those aspects.
– The Ladies Choice better for jumps, riding switch, butters, spins etc.
– Similarly good in uneven terrain.
Hey Nate. Hope you’ve been well. Sorry for all the questions. I got the Ladies Choice and the Space Metal Fantasy. What are your thoughts on the Lexa/Escapades for these boards over the Flux GS? I’m also assuming the Lexa X would be too stiff, but correct me if I’m wrong.
Also I believe that there is no Burton Day Trader this year. Do you know what would be the equivalent to this board or would the Ladies Choice do the same thing?
Thanks again.
Hi Jo
I’m good – thanks for asking! Hope you’re well too.
Yeah I would say the Lexa X is a little too stiff. You’d probably get away with it on the Ladies Choice, but definitely too stiff for the Space metal Fantasy. For the Space Metal Fantasy I would be leaning Escapade and that would work fine with the Ladies Choice too. The Lexa would also work for both, but if you are getting one pair to switch between the two, I would be leaning Escapade. Flux GS would also work well for both though. If you’re getting one for each board, then I’d probably put the GS on the Ladies Choice and then get something softer for the Space Metal Fantasy. Something like the Union Milan or something else from the following:
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Burton Day Trader a very different board to the Ladies Choice. It’s setback, tapered, has a directional shape, directional flat-to-rocker camber profile versus Ladies Choice which is a twin (no setback, no taper, twin camber profile – hybrid rocker camber profile). So yeah, very different. Day Trader very much a directional powder board. If you’re looking for something similar from Burton, then the Hideaway would be the closest equivalent probably, for something in the right size. There are others like the 3D Deep Daze, which are more similar to the Day Trader, but I think the smallest size would still be too big for you, in that one. But if you’re open to other brands for a more powder specialist, then I would be happy to look for something suitable for you. Just let me know.
Hey Nate
Yeah it’s certainly challenging looking for something that suits my weight and size. And yes to trees. I know it might not be exactly your area of expertise, but what bindings would you recommend to go for the kids powder boards that you suggested?
Hi Jo
Hard to say for sure, since I don’t really have any reference to how the boards might feel flex-wise, compared to what they are rated at. But assuming their flex is roughly how they are stated, then something around that medium flex for the likes of the Mini Mind Expander and Youth Flagship. For your weight, I wouldn’t go any stiffer than a 6/10 and a 5/10 is probably a better bet. So something like the Flux GS, Union Trilogy, Burton Escapade I think would work well.
For the Nitro Squash, it looks to be a little stiffer, though I would be surprised if a kid’s board was actually the 7/10 flex that it says it is. So I think a mid-flexing binding would still work. In this case a 6/10 flex might be better though. Something like the Lexa, K2 Hue or something like the Union Legacy.
The YES Pow Inc looks to be a little softer flexing – but something like the GS or Escapade would still certainly work on it. But if you wanted I think you’d be able to go a little softer in the bindings too – like 4/10. Something like the Salomon Nova, K2 Meridian, Union Milan or NOW Vetta.
Hi Nate. Thanks for your responses – they make sense. Yeah I’m looking for a directional powder board. Definitely open to other brands (and also bindings to go with). I have an old Salomon Pillow Talk but at 143cm. Look forward to hearing your suggestions.
Hi Jo
You could look into the Ride Psychocandy 138. It’s certainly wide for your boots, but for your freeride board you can go a little bigger – particularly if you’re looking mostly to ride it in powder. You could ride up to a 141/142, if it was a narrower width, for your freeride board. However, the one qualification to this is if you like to ride a lot of trees – in that case, you don’t want to go too much bigger. Whilst more surface area means better float in powder, it can also make the board feel sluggish when trying to do tight turns. In the case of the Psychocandy you wouldn’t be going long for your specs, but you would be going wide, so you’d be gaining that extra surface area from the width. But again, if you want that maneuverability for trees it might be a bit big still.
There’s also the K2 Wildheart 141 and Niche Ember 140, but they’re both too big overall, IMO – as they are really quite wide.
Unfortunately there aren’t too many directional powder board options in good sizes for you for women’s boards, IMO.
But you could definitely look at some youth boards. It’s not an area that I’m particularly knowledgeable in – I focus predominantly on men’s and women’s gear. But here are some options (I do remember your concern from an earlier message about not getting all the tech. And I think there isn’t as much tech in kids boards, but they’re worth taking a look at anyway I think – for sizing’s sake):
– YES Pow Inc 135 – this one is actually quite wide, but at 135cm I think it’s short enough to compensate in terms of maneuverability
– Nitro Squash Kids 137 – they make this for men’s and women’s as well. Not sure how dumbed down, if at all, the kid’s version is
– Jones Mini Mind Expander 138 – again, they make this in men’s and women’s versions. Again not sure if the tech is similar to those versions but worth looking into
– Jones Youth Flagship 137 – ditto above.
Also, how does one pick between the flagship and the mind expander? Jones 2021 Snowboards Overview from what I can see on this page, it seems like the tech in normal vs kids mind expander is pretty much similar, but there’s more of a difference with the flagship. not in anyway saying that the tech in the kids flagship is bad, I think I’d be happy with the specs of either board would suit.
Hi Jo
Both boards quite different. Assuming they roughly translate from the adult versions, I would say:
The Mind Expander is a more easy going board. It’s a fully rockered camber profile. Very surfy and, IMO, quite a powder specialist (even if Jones markets it as an alternate all-mountain board). That’s not to say it’s terrible out of powder, but it’s very much it’s main strength is powder. You can check out my review on the men’s Mind Expander for more. Though one thing is that it looks like Jones rates the Mini Mind Expander and Youth Flagship around 5/10 flex – versus the men’s and women’s versions where the Flagship is rated 8/10 flex and the Mind Expander 6/10. But even at the same flex, the Mini Mind Expander will overall be the more easy going board.
The Flagship is a more all-round board, in terms of riding groomers and powder and everything else. It’s still definitely not an all-mountain board. Very much a freeride board, but better all-round performance for carving and speed, but still very good in powder. It’s definitely not freestyle focused – very much freeride, but less powder specialized than the Mind Expander, IMO. For more you can also check out my review on the men’s Flagship
The bonus of going for kid’s boards, is that they tend to cost less!
Hey Nate. Thanks for all your advice so far. Won’t be going anywhere with powder anytime soon, so I’ll keep an eye out for the kid’s boards early next year. I’m just reading through some of the questions asked on the Mini Mind Expander page on the Jones website, and they’re recommending the 130 for someone of my size because the ME is meant to be sized down 4-8mm from your regular board? Would 130 be too short?
Hi Jo
130 would be quite short, but for your specs, I don’t think it would be a crazy idea. It’s certainly still I think on the short side for your specs, but if you really want something that’s going to be super maneuverable and easy going, then I think it’s doable. And with it being quite wide still, particularly for a 130 (and the 138 being quite wide too for that length and for your boot size, it’s not a crazy idea. The 130 would give you less float in powder than the 138, but given that it’s designed to ride powder and is very good at it, the 130 would still be fine for riding powder – but just won’t quite have the same float as the 138. The 130 would however, likely be really fun in trees for you.
Looking at the specs, the width at the front insert on the men’s Mind Exapander 158 is 25mm wider than at the waist! Which is quite a lot. The average board is around 10mm wider. So it really gets wide at the nose. The back insert is only 8mm wider than the waist. Given that the stance width will be a lot narrower (somewhat counteracted by a tighter sidecut) it won’t be as much of a difference on the 130 – but might still be around 258mm at the front insert, which is really wide for a 130 (a lot of boards I ride in the 155 to 159 range have a width at inserts around 260-262 and sometimes even around 258), especially for size 4s. The back insert will be more like 244/245mm, so a lot narrower.
But given that, it’s certainly something you’ll want to size down for, so the 138 probably is too big overall. Whether 130 is too small or not? Not sure. Probably depends on how much preference you want to give to being nimble and how much for speed and deep powder float. If speed is a priorities, then 130 might be a little short, even in that width. But if you want to prioritize maneuverability, then it’s certainly doable, I think.
Sorry if that got too technical and/or train of thoughty!
Hey Nate, no all good, technical is good as it explains a lot. I’ll keep my eye out for the kids boards as they don’t come in stock very often. What are your thoughts on the Burton Story Board? is that a suitable board or am I still better off going with the kids Jones?
Hi Jo
The Story Board is a more aggressive option. Still good for powder, but overall it’s a lot more board to handle than the others. It’s stiffer, pretty camber dominant – and it’s on the bigger side for you, even for a freeride board. The combination of being a stiffer, more aggressive board and the extra size would have me concerned with how much you would enjoy riding it in trees. For open terrain powder and for bombing at speed down groomers, I think it would work really well, but you may not enjoy it in trees.
Hi Nate, thanks for these reviews! I’d love your advice on some bindings, specifically I’m looking at the Burton escapades or lexa because I can get a good sale price on some right now, although I’d be open to other suggestions too.
I’m 5’4 115lbs, boot size 6, and have a Hel yes 146. Im an intermediate rider comfortable on blues and blacks, and really enjoy riding trees and venturing a little off piste. When the snow is good I love playing around on side hits and weaving in and out of the trees on the side of the run. I don’t do much park or tricks but I like doing small jumps on natural features. I’m looking for bindings that will help me get quick edge to edge response when I’m in the trees, but also allow me to play around on little side hits and such.
Thanks!
Hi Tami
Thanks for your message.
Both the Escapade and Lexa would definitely work, IMO, for the Hel Yes/what you’re describing. But I would be leaning towards the Lexa in this case. Just because I think it’s a slightly better match to the Hel Yes and should give you a bit more power, but still not be too overbearing when it comes to playing around on side hits etc. Not a lot in it, and I don’t think there’d be a wrong choice there, but I’d be leaning Lexa.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Firstly thanks for your reviews, this website is great!
I’m getting geared up for the 2020 New Zealand season, buying gear for the first time in 5 years. I’ve got a Yes Hel Yes and trying to decide which bindings to put on it. I was leaning towards either Burton Escapades or Union Trilogy, but no idea really.
I’ve been riding near on 20 years (never learnt about gear though!), like to seek out steep lines, some backcountry hiking, and will do the odd lap through the park for the jumps. Not a fan of rails. Snow on my home mountain is often icy or spring corn.
Which bindings would you recommend to suit?
Thanks!
Hi Genevieve
Thanks for your message.
Can’t go wrong with either the Escapade or Trilogy, IMO, and are good matches to what you’re describing and to the Hel Yes. If you wanted a bit more in terms of being slightly better riding at speed, you could definitely also check out the Burton Lexa and Union Legacy. Just that little bit stiffer to give you a bit more power. But the Escapade or Trilogy would certainly work. The Lexa and Legacy aren’t on this list, because they made the following list instead.
>>Top Women’s Freeride Bindings
Sorry to add options to the list, but just wanted to make sure you had all the information for your decision.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Thanks for the in depth review!
I was wondering if you could help me out with binding/boot selection. I just bought myself the 2020 lib tech skate banana reis board size 156 cm. I’ll 5’11 female weighing about 180 or so with 8.5/9 shoe size. I’m intermediate but love to carve with a skate, surf feel. Leaning towards to bent metal upshot bindings or the burton lexa/ escapade’s. let know about compatibility. Boots i’m torn between Vans or burton.
Hi SeaAnna
Thanks for your message.
I have tried some Bent Metal bindings, but don’t have a lot of experience with them. I think the Upshot, based on specs, would be a match with the Skate Banana, but personally I’d look more at the Burton Escapade. More so Escapade vs Lexa, mostly because of how you describe your style having a skate/surf feel. I think the Escapades would give you that more so than the Lexa.
Should be no compatibility issues with the Skate Banana for any of those options – just so long as you get the “Re:Flex” models if you go Burton. The “EST” models of Burton bindings won’t mount to the Skate Banana.
In terms of boots, both Burton and Vans make great snowboard boots, IMO, so it’s really mostly down to what fits you best. If you have a chance to try on, that’s definitely the best way to know, but if you can’t try on, then check out the following to get some idea of fit of different brands:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Even if you go with the Burton bindings, I wouldn’t necessarily lean towards Burton boots because of that. Burton boots do, of course, fit well in Burton bindings, but so do Vans boots, in my experience.
For a match with the Skate Banana and how you describe your riding, I would be looking at the following for Vans and Burton:
– Vans Encore Pro ideally from Vans – but if you need to go cheaper, then the Vans Women’s Hi Standard OG or Encore OG (note there’s an Encore OG and Encore Pro) would do the job.
– Burton Ritual or Limelight/Limelight Boa
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for doing this review! All your reviews have been extremely helpful since I started snowboarding 4 years ago. I am wanting to upgrade my bindings (currently have: flux gu) and I am debating between the Burton Escapades vs Burton Lexas Re:Flex. I am an intermediate advanced boarder comfortable riding blues/blacks and mild/mod blacks looking to improve my riding. Im an all-mountain rider who enjoys a semi- aggressive style. Currently wearing thirty-two size 7 boots and riding the Rossignol Gala board 146 cm. Would love to hear your thoughts between the Escapade VS Lexa!
Hi Audrey
Thanks for your message.
I would be leaning towards the Lexa for you, mostly for the way you describe your riding as semi-aggressive. If you were more playful then the Escapade would prob be more the goer. The Lexa is a little stiffer.
That said, the Escapade is probably a better match to the Gala, in terms of flex. If you were looking to stay with the same board for a while, the Lexa is quite an aggressive binding for that board. It’s still not super stiff or anything, but it’s quite stiff for that board.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate.
Great review as always. I decided to buy a snowboard and bindings for my girlfriend. She is 175cm and 60kg. She is intermediate. I like Jones Twin Sister, as it is all mountain and I think it will suit her very well.
Now I just wonder if Burton Escapade EST large will be good for this snowboard. Her shoe size is 10 US (40.5 EU). From the chart I see that large is from 40EU, so is it best for exactly 40EU size or it is better to go for medium?
Or is it better to go for another bindings?
Thanks for your thoughts!
Hi THomas
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I think the Escapades would be a great match with the Twin Sister. In terms of sizing, from what I can tell an EU40.5 translates roughly to a women’s US size 8.5 or 9 (depending on the brand of boots). That said, I think the Large is the best bet. She might squeeze into a Medium, but I think the Large is the safer bet.
In terms of sizing on the Twin Sister, I think the 149 would be her best bet – and that would also be a good width for her boots, too.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thanks for the great review this is the best I’ve found! I am 70kg and 162cm and have been riding an old 147 roxy snowboard as well as rentals on and off for the last ten+ years. I’d say I’m a beginner intermediate and do mostly groomed runs but am having fun finding small sidejumps and playing around trying to ride switch and going off trail a bit. I just got a great deal on a 2018 149 burton rewind and am looking for bindings that will pair up well with this board and with my riding ability. I am hoping the 149 will suit me size wise as the 146 was not available. if not the board is returnable but I am anxious to try some new gear finally out on the slopes! Thankyou for the help!
Hi Paige
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of board size, I think the 149 is a good size for you. I would go upwards of 151cm for you as an advanced rider and somewhere around 146-148 as a beginner. As a low-intermediate, I think the 149 is a good length.
In terms of bindings for the Rewind, I would be looking at anything at least 4/10 in terms of flex, and up to 6/10 in terms of flex. So anything from this list is a very good option, IMO. You could also look at the following, if you wanted to go a little softer flexing, in that 4/10 range.
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Since it’s a Burton board, if you go Burton bindings you’ll have the option of going EST. EST bindings on a Burton board are a great combo in my opinion. A little better than going with Burton “Re:Flex” bindings, however not a massive difference. The downside of going EST is that, if you were to change boards in the future, but were wanting to keep your bindings, you would be limited to getting a Burton board again (or Endeavor who also use the Channel system). So that’s worth taking into account if you were looking to go Burton – whether you went Re:Flex or EST. Also note, with some brands that you would need to get a separate disc to be compatible with the channel system. All these bindings are compatible, but in some cases, like with Flux, and some K2/Ride and some Salomon bindings you need to order a separate disc at the same time. I think with all the Salomon, K2 & Ride bindings in these lists they all come already compatible, but it would pay to double check just to make sure. As far as I know with Flux, you would need to order the discs for it. Not a biggie, but just so you know to do it at the same time.
Hope this helps
Hello,
I was wondering if you can help me with finding the right bindings for me new board. I just got the Lib Tech Cortado 148 and need to find the right bindings for that board. I’ve been looking at getting the Union Milan, Nitro Poison or Burton Lexa or Escapade. I’m leaning more towards the Union Milan but wanted to see if I was making the right choice! I’m an intermediate looking to advance my skills. I don’t bomb down the mountain but I also like to cruise. I don’t do much park so I like to just groom and coast. My current setup is the Burton Feelgood Flying V with Scribe EST bindings.
Hi Angie
Thanks for your message.
Not sure about the Nitro Poison as it’s not a brand I test, but for the others:
The Cortado is a mid-flexing board, so any mid-flexing binding is going to work well, IMO. The Escapade would be the best flex-match of the bindings you’ve mentioned. The Lexa is a little stiffer and the Milan is a little softer. Since you prefer you’re riding more casual than aggressive though, then the Milan could definitely work for you.
So yeah, I’d say ideally Escapade (Re:Flex) or even Scribe Re:Flex. The Union Trilogy and Flux GS would also be great options. But the Milan would work too, given how you describe your riding.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey I was just wondering, I have bought a new snowboard for my wife and just wondering what bindings to get and what size? She wears a size 9 boot and has been boarding for years. Burton, Salomon or union? Can you give me some help.
Hi Chad
Can you give me some more info.
How would you describe your wife’s style. Does she like to ride fast, ride the park or ride freestyle around the mountain. Just cruising the groomers? A bit of everything?
Would you describe her riding as aggressive or more casual?
What is the board that you bought for her? (it’s a good idea to match flex fairly closely between board and bindings)
In terms of sizing, she will be either a Medium or Large, depending on the brand. Check out the following for a list of number of brands and their sizings:
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
Hi Nate!
Thanks so much for putting up all these helpful information on your site, really appreciate it! 🙂
I’m still pretty green with snowboarding (trying to perfect my S-turns for now), and have always been using my friend’s old 151 Burton Custom men’s snowboard the past 2 trips. This time I’ve gotten my hands on a 144 Rossignol Frenemy (I’m 164cm, about 56kg) and am excited to see if a shorter length will help me with my progression the next trip! 🙂
I’m currently looking to find compatible bindings that will suit my skill level, and am wondering if you think the Union Trilogy is a good one that I can match with my new board? With my friend’s old board and bindings (they were malavitas), I’ve always had the problem of my side boa loosening after each run and it’s been exhausting to readjust them each time I head up the slopes. Wondering if I’ve gotten a faulty pair of boots, or would different bindings make a difference? I am size 39 in shoe size and have gotten the K2 contour boa in size 6.5, the boots might have been a tad bit bigger than I would like as well but I’m learning to work with it.
Really looking forward to hear from you! Big thanks! 🙂
Hi Desiree
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I think the 144 Frenemy is going to be a big help with your progression vs the Custom 151. A much better size for you, IMO and a better overall board for a beginner/intermediate rider. And the width is going to be much better for your boot size too, IMO. Since you’re used to the 151 Custom it’ll take a little to get used to, but once you are, I think you’ll really appreciate that difference.
In terms of bindings, the Trilogy would work well with the Frenemy, IMO, as would anything on this list, but yeah, the Trilogy a good choice.
I’ve never heard of bindings affecting BOAs, but it’s possible if the bindings aren’t the right size that it could be that.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hey Nate,
Love your work!
I started getting into boarding last season and invested in a Yes Hel Yes with a pair of Nitro Monarch boots but I didn’t love the Nitro Lynx bindings I had last year. (I did cheap out on the bindings to be fair haha)
I was tossing up between the Lexa’s, Escapades and Trilogy bindings also I’ve seen that the Hel Yes and Now Conda’s are often paired up.
I’m intermediate and looking for something to advance in but still be comfortable!
Any suggestions on what would suit the Hel Yes?
Hi Nicole
Thanks for your message.
I think you’re on the right track with that list – and any one of those is going to work, IMO. But I think the Lexa, and the Union Legacy would be the best flex matches for the Hel Yes. And the Conda too.
I hadn’t tested NOW bindings until the season just gone, so they’re new to me. But I did get on the NOW X Yes (men’s), which seems to be similar to the Conda. I haven’t published my review of them yet, but if you wanted to check out my review of the NOW Drive, it might give you some insights into NOW bindings in general, to help with your decision.
>>NOW Drive Bindings Review
But something like the Escapade or Trilogy could still work – they’re just a little softer flexing, but not far off. Still around the mid-flex.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi! So, I have snowboarded for awhile (6-7yrs) and had an injury and left the sport for a while (shoulder injury 2013). I decided to finally get back into it and killed my very old Salomon Poison bindings (from 2008) over the weekend… I think they were old and the ladder just didnt want to feed well into the track anymore and it cannot be replaced. Luckily, I still have solid S-turns 5-6 years later so I am so happy to be back riding again! However, I have realized that the tech of all things snowboarding has super progressed and I am now so lost lol. I currently ride my Forum Superstar 148cm (I am 5’6″, 122lbs.) and am in need of new bindings… just do not really know which ones to choose since I am sure any of these 5 is substantially better than my old Salomon’s… Since my injury, I do not plan to do any back-country-ing or crazy bowl/park riding, and want to stay mainly on groomed runs, maybe some powder as I ease back into the sport, and maybe some little baby jumps and tricks but nothing crazy. What do you recommend?
Overall, I like a nice soft-medium flex… and am also going to upgrade boots since I have outgrown mines oddly. I rode on some Mint boas from Burton as a rental and liked them so I may be picking up a pair as well.
And also, in your opinion, should I also just upgrade my board too if the boots and bindings are changing? I do not know anyone riding their boards after 10 years and usually upgrade… but it seems to be fine (just heavier than the current fancy boards) and I do still love it.. just wondering how much of a difference would be seen if I changed everything… or if the boots & bindings are enough to give me a solid ride. Thanks so much for your time!
Hi Shannon
Thanks for your message.
If you’re still happy riding your board, then you could keep riding it for a while with your new boots and bindings and see how you feel. For a modern board, you could drop a couple of centimeters in length, but for something 10 years old, that’s probably a good size.
In terms of bindings, yeah, anything from this list should be fine, maybe excepting the K2 Hue, just because it’s a touch stiffer, and it sounds like you like things a little softer. If you wanted to go for something softer than even the 5/10 bindings in this list you could also check out:
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
For boots, if you were to go a little softer bindings-wise, then I think the Mint could work, but if you were to go for a medium flex bindings, I would encourage you to also go for a medium flex boot. But if you want to keep things medium-soft, then the Mint should work fine. If you wanted to go more medium flex, then the Burton Ritual might be a better bet, if you wanted to stay Burton (which if you already know that the Mint fits well, then it might not be a bad idea).
One more thing – if you go with Burton bindings, just make sure you pick the “Re:Flex” model. Burton have both “EST” and “Re:Flex” models, but the “EST” model only fit on Burton’s channel system boards.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your reply/time and thank you for such an in-depth response. I went ahead and looked at the freestyle binding list and looked at the ones you recommended, but decided maybe it would be best to stay in the med-flex arena and change up the boots. If I decide to get back into more freestyle riding, I will go for something softer but since I am stepping back into the sport, I will go with something a bit stiffer just in case.
I looked up a bunch more reviews and found that everyone raves about the Union bindings so I may just order the Trilogy and hope they are not too advanced for me since they seem to be very responsive. I would say I am around a level 3-4 (I can manage my speed, stopping, and turning fairly easily on toe & heel… but I am still a bit nervous about speeding down a mountain right now esp. on uneven terrain).
I will also look into the Burton Ritual boots as well. if you have any other recommendations there, I would love them as well. Thanks again for your time!
Hi Shannon
I think the Trilogy would work well for you, from what you’re describing.
Boots-wise, for Burton options, if you wanted to stick with them, since you’ve tried their boots recently and they fit well, the following would work well with the Trilogy, IMO:
– Burton Ritual (5/10 flex)
– Burton Limelight (5.5/10 flex)
– Burton Felix (6/10 flex) – though quite pricey
If you wanted to look into some other brands too, check out:
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Thank you so much for your time and reply! I finally got around to trying all the various boots on your lists and finally settled on the ThirtyTwo Lashed Double Boa today since they were the only boot that my heel felt actually secure in. I also liked the Burton Felix and Vans Encore Pro as alternatives but those seemed pricier for the same amount of amenities except the 32s came with that harness so I felt like I got an extra bonus for $40-90 less. I did notice the 32s were slightly stiffer but after a bit of adjusting, I was able to soften them to my liking.
So, now, I am sort of torn between which bindings to get. I am unsure if I should pick up the Union Milans since they offer a little bit more flex or go with the Trilogies which are slightly stiffer… with the clearance sales, they end up only being $10-20 in difference. For the most part, I intend to stay out of wild park riding and on groomed runs but some baby park riding would be fun (like smaller boxes) when I get back to being more of a solid/higher intermediate rider. I feel like I should go with the Trilogy since they are supposedly the better but unsure if a 6 is too stiff? If you could advise me that would be wonderful. Thank you again for your time.
Hi Shannon
Thanks for the update – awesome that you’ve found new boots!
The Lashed Double Boa are a little stiffer – I would say 6/10 flex, but 32 boots tend to break in fairly quickly and will feel a little softer after a bit of time riding on them. The Trilogies would be the best match, IMO, to the Lashed Double Boa – being around the same level of flex (can’t exactly match these things between boots and bindings, but roughly speaking). The Milan on the slightly softer side. They’re certainly not undoable to match with the Lashed Double Boa, but I think the Trilogies are the slightly better option.
Hi,
Thanks for doing the review. I just bought the Union Trilogy bindings and they weigh 850 grams. About the same weight as my Burton Lexa Bindings. I’ve not ridden them yet, about to do some weeks touring in Niseko so will let you know!
Hi Sioned
Thanks for your message.
Thanks for pointing out the weight there. Now that you mention this, I would expect the Trilogy to be on the heavier end of Union Bindings. Union bindings are usually very light, but the Force (men’s equivalent of the Trilogy) are the heaviest they have. I weighed the Force (medium) in at 900 grams (which was the same my Burton Malavitas). So the Trilogy at around 850 grams makes sense. I weigh with the disc and screws (which I’m guessing you did too?) and I believe Union weighs without disc and screws, but disc and screws are usually around 80 grams, from what I’ve weighed, so that would bring them back to 770 grams – and not the 650 grams they claim in the video. I would expect the Legacy and Milan to be lighter (based on the men’s equivalents). The other thing is that they could have used the weight of the smalls, rather than mediums, for the video – which size do you have?
I have adjusted my comments to reflect this. Thanks for pointing it out – and I look forward to hearing what you think of them once you’ve had a chance to ride them.
Hi Nate
I am a beginner/intermediate snowboarder and a friend has given me his 157cm riot sqd 57 snowboard (waist 253mm, stance 570mm). I am 5ft 5″ and 58kg is this a sensible board for me to use, i have hired boards previously and dont’ know much about it. Would the Burton Scribe bindings be a good match? (I have Salomon Ivy boots size UK 6.5) . I mainly stay on piste, am starting to play around with some off piste and don’t go into the park at all.
Thanks for your help!
Caz
Hi Caz
Thanks for your message.
Awesome that you’ve been given a snowboard, but unfortunately, IMO anyway, 157 is way too long for you. I would be looking more in the range of 143-145 for your specs/ability level. Width-wise it’s a good bit too wide as well, IMO. And you’re not likely to find that stance width comfortable either. You could take it out and try it, if you want, but my guess would be that you’re probably not going to get on well with it.
Hi Nate!
I am beginnier/intermediate snowboarder. I just got a 150cm Rossignol Frenemy and am stuck trying to figure out which bindings to get. I mostly stay on groomers, starting to play in the trees a bit. I’m mostly torn between the NOW Vetta and something a bit more traditional like the Union Juliet. Looking for something comfortable, that compliments my board well and will allow me to progress more quickly. Thanks!
Hi Daniela
Thanks for your message.
I’m not that familiar with NOW bindings, but, based on specs, the Vetta would be a good flex match for the Frenemy. Otherwise, I can’t say much else about them.
The Juliet are a solid, low cost choice. And they are what I would also consider a good flex match for the Frenemy. Board feel not amazing, and not up to the quality of something like the Trilogy, but certainly suitable for the Frenemy and what you’re describing. And the price is good.
Hope this helps with your decision
Looking to get a 2018 deal on Escapades but if I can’t, then probably the Union trilogy based on your reviews – so thank you!!! I was on the Burton Stilettos until they broke at the end of last season. Just looking for advice on size since I’m buying online. I am on the small side (5’2″ and 125 lbs) and wear a size 6 boot. Burton has a small as 4-6 and Medium at 6-8 so I fall right in the middle. Looks like my old never summer infinity was a 149 and I will be buying a new one this season as well. I’m thinking that size is a good choice for all mountain.
Hi Maggie
Thanks for your message.
If you have Burton boots, then you could really go with either size. I would be leaning towards the Small but both would work fine. For other boots, it would depend on the brand, but Medium might be a safer bet then.
In terms of size of board, I would put you more on a 143, 144 for your specs. But since you’re used to a 149, then going longer than 143, 144 isn’t a bad idea. So you could still go 149 if you feel really comfortable with that, but I would be leaning towards going a little shorter, even if not down to 143, 144, which might be a big adjustment. If you’re going for the Infinity again, then I would be weighing up between the 145 and 147, and they would have a better width for your boot size, too, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate!
I always love to check out your ratings and rankings whenever I try to purchase some gears, keep it up buddy! Here’s the question, I am currently use if a Burton Cartel size M, and it fits my size 8 burton boots well enough, however, with the genesis binding on huge sale now, I want to upgrade to genesis now. I am thinking the existing M cartel would sub my girlfriend’s old bindings, however, she has size 8 women’s boots, which is not smaller than the M cartel’s suggested size chart: women size 9-11. I put her boots into the M cartel bindings, and it seems holding the boots well enough, but the tips of the boots are not reaching out from the baseplate, which seems to me is a no-no, right?
Hi Lu
Thanks for the message.
Yeah, ideally, your boots should be overhanging your bindings. If they don’t then you’re loosing leverage, which can make turn initiations slower and physically more effort to initiate, which can become fatiguing. A men’s small or a women’s medium would be a better size for her. Also, women’s bindings are better suited to female riders. They usually incorporate things like shorter high backs, which make them more comfortable to ride (women’s calves typically sit lower than men’s so men’s bindings can often cause calf-bite).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
I always appreciate your blog, rankings, and advice. I’m an intermediate rider, currently on a NS Aura which I love, although I’m thinking about demoing a GNU because I hear the edge hold when you stop is a little better, any suggestions on something compatible with the NS Aura? I seems to kind of skid a bit when I stop with the NS Aura which I heard was due to their edge technology, anywho I realize none of that has to due with bindings, but when in Rome, or Nate’s blog! haha. I’m also looking into getting a new pair of bindings and wondering if I should get the Lexa or the Escapades? Budget isn’t an issue, I just want the best bindings for my set up. I’ve tried the Escapades before and they’re fine, but wondering if I’m missing anything with the Lexa’s. I’m currently using Burton Felix boots if that matters at all. Thanks for any advice!
Hi Vanessa
Thanks for your message!
I would say the closest equivalent to the Aura in GNUs line would be the Klassy. Certainly not like for like, but that would be the closest equivalent. And yeah GNU tend to have great edge-hold, especially in hard/icy conditions.
I’d say that:
1. The Klassy is possibly just slightly softer flexing than the Aura but I’d say they’re pretty close.
2. Very similar in terms of the camber profile.
3. The stance on the Klassy is a little more setback (1.5″ vs 0.75″ on the Aura)
4. Different dimensions in terms of sidecut, width etc as well
But I’d say they’re more similar than they are different.
For bindings, both the Escapade and Lexa would work, but I’d be leaning slightly towards the Lexa for the Klassy. But yeah, both would definitely do the job.
And the Felix are a good match for both those bindings and the Klassy, IMO.
Hope that covers everything and let me know if you have any other questions.
P.S. Very flattered that you consider my blog “Rome”!
Hi Nate
Newbie here, I’ve never snowboarded before but just got to Whistler and looking to stay 2 full years. I’m looking at getting the Burton Escapades even though I’ve never snowboarded before, the reason being I don’t want to get a ‘beginner’ pair of bindings and need to upgrade them once I’ve been on the mountain for a few months. My friend says it’s a waste of money, and I’m leaning towards agreeing.
So my question is, would you recommend these for a beginner, and if not, why not?
Thank you in advance, your articles have been amazingly helpful for both me and my boyfriend (he’s been boarding a few years) and I honestly have no idea how I would have navigated buying my first set up without them!
Cheers
Hi Perri
Thanks for your message.
I think the Escapades are something you can get away with, without being ideal. Buying beginner bindings isn’t just about price. One of the most important things about bindings for beginners is that they are forgiving enough and allow you to control your board at slower speeds more easily. A binding that is too stiff is very difficult to ride for a beginner (something that people who have forgotten what it’s like to be a beginner, or can’t even remember learning to ride because they were so young, don’t understand this and often recommend bindings that are too advanced for beginners).
So it’s not just about the money. And to be honest, if you were to buy a beginner pair of binding for one season, sell them and then upgrade, you don’t loose out on that much money – and your progression can be quite a bit faster. But I understand it does cost a bit more and it can be a pain trying to sell second hand.
For the Escapade’s specifically, they are medium flexing bindings. They are a bit stiff to be ideal for a beginner – but they’re not super-stiff. So you can learn on them, they just won’t be as easy as on a softer flexing binding – it might slow your progression down a little bit.
There are other factors too – weight can play a factor. Heavier rider’s are applying more force to the bindings, so a stiffer flexing binding won’t be as difficult for them to ride. Also, someone who is quite strong and athletic will have less trouble on a stiffer flexing binding. But it will always be easier to learn on a softer binding.
Anyway, this doesn’t write off the Escapade but just they are doable for a beginner but not ideal.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thumbs up man! You did a very good job, definitely. I was looking for bindings and this article helps me to save a lot of time. TNX again!
You’re very welcome Sanda! Glad you found it helpful.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for doing these thorough reviews and especially for giving equal time to women’s gear. That said, I will now solicit your opinion. I am getting back into snowboarding after a 13 year hiatus, I am self taught, and I don’t really have any snowboarding friends, so it is hard for me to gauge what level I am at. I am comfortable on blue /blacks and mellower blacks, so I’m thinking advanced intermediate. I’m still riding the gear I bought in 2003 (for about $400 total – Santa Cruz board and who knows what boots and bindings). I decided it’s time to get new gear. Picked up some K2 contour boots (which seem nice, although with my current setup, it’s hard to tell). I just bought a NS Aura, which I have yet to try out, but I’m really excited about. My question now is bindings.
I was aiming for the Union Legacy, but I got a great deal on some Burton Escapades (which REI tells me will come with both discs). But then I started worrying that they would be too advanced for me because Evo ranks them as advanced – expert. Do you think that is a fair rating? Just in case, I also grabbed some Now Vettas because I think the Conda probably is beyond me, but as a longboarder, I got sucked into the whole concept. Would that work with the Aura?
Is there something else I should be considering? Either of the above can be returned. I grabbed them because stuff is selling out like crazy and I don’t want to miss anything.
Thanks for your thoughts!
Hi Ida
Thanks for your message.
The Escapades are definitely not just for advanced to expert, in my opinion. They are definitely fine for an intermediate rider. I would say that the Burton Lexa would be more in that advanced and up category but the Escapade is definitely Intermediate and up. I think they will suit your setup well – and I think you’re going to really appreciate the difference of your new setup once you’ve got everything together and once your used to the change. Sounds like an awesome all-round set up to me.
From the NOW line up I think you made the right choice, in terms of the Vettas over the Condas – but I think you’ll prefer the Escapades overall.
As long as you have bought the “Re:Flex” Escapades, then they will be compatible with your Aura. If REI is talking about discs, then you will have the Re:Flex model as the “EST” model doesn’t have discs (and is only for boards with Burton’s channel system). So it sounds like you’re all good there.
Hope this helps
Definitely, thanks!