Switched to Burton Step Ons and DC Judge boots mid-season after a catastrophic failure of my traditional bindings on a double black. I hurt my back in the fall, and got the step ons so I wouldn't have to bend over as much. I absolutely love them. Best decision I've made. My local East Coast mountain is tiny and the servings that you save really add up. I race, ride all mountain, and pretend to hit the park.
Right? I mean, the Flow bindings have been around for a LONG time and those were initially the closest to a "regular" binding. The new Nideckers are the real deal..... a "normal" binding you can step into if you want to use it that way. I've used all 3 (Union/Burton classic bindings, Flow step-ins, Nidecker step-ins). Just bought the Nideckers this year. Honestly liked the Flow "Hybrid" bindings the best for responsiveness...really has more to do with the ankle strap and heel cup designs and relative flex than anything else. I'm not a fan of the newest rage of "mesh flex" (or "3D flex") toe and ankle straps. I don't like the flex ankle strap on the Nidecker step-in. I need to stiffen up the upper of my Salomon boots to feel the same "locked in" feel when transitioning to my toe-edge. I had this on one of my old Burton bindings too and was one reason I opted to try the Flow hybrid bindings. Best thing I tried..... took the Flow Hybrid ankle strap and installed on my Nidecker supermatic step-ins...... heaven. All the responsiveness I was looking for when switching from heel to toe edge, and all the convenience of using EITHER step-in or classic rip and ratchet binding straps.
I’ve been riding Burton step ons for the past 4 or 5 years and will never go back. I love them so much I have three sets of step on bindings. I don’t feel loose or that I’m going to pop out of them. If anyone ever tells you that you’ll pop out of them, it’s 100% user error
I don’t live in the mountains, but ride Mammoth 5-6 days a month…the altitude is an ass kicker, even after hitting the gym multiple times a week. With Step-Ons you’re not trying to stand from a seated position in the snow 20-30 times a day at 10,000 ft, thus saving LOTS of energy.
I'm 64 and lived through the first step in era. K2 Burton and even a Salomon step in that was excellent but was never brought to market. They all had issues . After many years on Flow, I switched to the Burton Step On with Burton Photon boots. I have 75 days so far this year. Riding all Mountain, Powder, moguls,switch and carving. No park, much to old for the crashing although I eat it enough in the bumps. The performance of the system is awesome. Very,very good response. No issues what so ever even in deeper snow. I laugh every time I hear the "if there so good ,why don't pros ride them?" I'm a solid Joe and they suit me just fine!
Same; I had the original Clickers back in 98 for a couple of seasons. Then I went back. 3 years ago I went Burton StepOns and it's a game changer. Love them.
I'm almost 68 and used Burton Step On for a second season. Sometimes I have a problem with second click, but I like them. I had K2 clickers and metal palates on the bottoms of boots were freezing my feet. I would love to try Clew, but they are expensive and some saying that Burton are better.
Problem with this video, it's opinion based on one brand of step in. Try different ones then make the judgement. Ived asked a lot of people who have tried the burtons, knnideckers, and clews. They all love them and have said they can never go back to regular bindings. Out of all the people ived asked, none were k2s. I have a pair of nideckers and got them after weighing in the pros and cons of the other systems. The biggest reason is because theyre the closest to regular bindings. I eventually will try the burtons but thatll be a huge extra cost because you need special boots for that system.
I use Burton Step On and like them. K2 have metal plates on bottoms of boots and they were freezing my feet so I sold them after one season. I would like to try Clew, but they are the most expensive.
I've tried Burtons (2023). My hangup with them is that they don't allow for fine-adjustment. Some days I want the straps cranked and some days I want them loose. Depends on conditions - both snow and my own body. Also not keen on having to use Burton or DC boots as my feet hate them (vans all the way!! 😆) *Edit: and I run my board the same as Ed. Stiff bindings (Union Atlas/Force), soft boots (Van HiStd).
The best step-in is the Nidecker Supermatic, you don‘t need a special boot, you can use it with all normal snowboard boots, it is overall the best system, very quick in and out and you have the option to use it in the traditional way in hard condition in deep snow.
All my boards have the Supermatic now. Only downsides are they're expensive and heavy, and the occasional snow getting into the mechanism and jamming the lever from getting loose. Hoping they can at least redesign it and make it lighter.
I finally got to take my Supermatics for a ride last weekend and I'd say the exact same thing. I'm not very skilled, but when the powder wasn't too deep I managed to step in whilst skating off of the lift a few times, and that felt pretty great! Now, when I accidentally flipped into 4ft+ powder or tripped over a yuppy ski family and clogged the ratchet mechanism with snow...uh oh....all I had to do was unstrap and move on. Best of both worlds with any boot you choose!
Burton's Step Ons are on a whole new level, a million miles ahead of Clickers. Just as the Japanese rides said, they are actually more responsive than traditional bindings (while easier to step in than those Clickers). If that's still not enough for you, put on a couple foam spacers on top of your footbed. This makes it harder to step in, but the connection is even more solid. Please Please Please! You must try out those! Let me know if you are actually planning to, I can send you guys pictures of my setup (Most poor reviews are due to poor setups).
@@ShredSchool1please do. I have ridden a variety of step in / on / clicker bindings from the first generation and probably hit the biggest jump of my life on a rental setup with those steel disk click in step on bindings with no high back. Wild …didn’t feel super in control. Owned a set of the original Burton step in (SI) customs with the freestyle boots. That was the best setup of its time. I rode mine until the boot basically fell apart. (Due to neglect probably lol. Riding in the rain. Once I melted some of it in front of a fire. I’m assuming that’s why the sole let go but otherwise I’ve never came out of them and I crashed super super hard doing dumb shit when I was young. Flash forward, I got the 2019 Burton Step On system with the Ion boots and I’m super happy with it. Probably the best riding setup I’ve tried. I mounted the new burtons in place of my old ones on my 2003 ride exile and it kills ice coast. I haven’t rode straps in years and I kind of don’t miss it. If I had money I would grab the best strap system to compare but I have to say the performance has been outstanding from my Burton Step On system with the Ion boots. Solid 🤙🏼
@@DazzToneit’s not just you, those old Burton step on boots fall apart no matter what. I work at a used sporting good store and I’ve yet to see a pair come in that doesn’t have the sole coming off with a little bit of force
Started using Nidecker Supermatics this season. I've just turned 60 & this deffo easier to get into, with less bending over. They were tricky to get out when I bailed in deep snow as it was hard to get to the release button. Overall I love them
That's when you release the bindings the usual way instead of using the level release. Just mark the straps where you set up the bindings so you know where to rachet it to. It's how I remember how far to rachet it for me whenever I need to unstrap the bindings the 'usual' way. Other than deep pow, it's always use of the lever.
I am using the Nidecker Supermatic. On a sunny bluebird day the step ins work amazing. Get out of the chairlift, step in. Done. On a powder day, if it is too deep, just strap like a regular binding. Compatible with any board mounting system (yes even the burton channel system) Compatible with all regular boots. Drawbacks. The binding is heavier than your normal binding. And also more expensive Give it a try.
To provide context so you can decide if my comments are of any value, I’m a 50 year old guy that lives in Iowa. The local ski areas have elevation changes of less than 200’. I have to drive 10 hours to get to the nearest mountain. As a result I usually get less than 10 mountain days a year. I taught myself to snowboard when I was 30 and the park is generally a place I don’t go. To sum it up, I’m old and don’t get out much. I switched to Burton Step Ons 4 years ago and absolutely love them. I don’t feel the excessive play like was mentioned with the K2s. For me the responsiveness is excellent and I have never had a problem with popping out of my bindings unintentionally so long as I was properly clicked in. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of stepping in or getting out of the bindings and I’ve even managed to step in while getting off the lift for a seamless transition to the run. For an old guy like me Burton Step Ons are the way to go. I can go anywhere I want to go and have no worries. Getting in and out is a breeze, I will sometimes even take my board completely off so as to be much more comfortable when standing in a lift line because it only takes a second to put the board down and step one foot in. For me the ease and comfort are game changers. I’m too old to want to learn tricks and jumps, my body just doesn’t recover as and I work a job that I can’t do if I’m injured, but I feel confident that the bindings would perform well. I think Step Ons are a great addition to the lineup for us old losers. It expands the envelope making snowboarding accessible to more people and allowing us old dudes to keep riding longer. I may not be cool enough to shred but I can still get out there and enjoy the mountain. I think that’s what it’s all about.
I'm turning 71 and carve hard, posi posi angles 9/10 boards. I can't find a pair of boots that can take the pressure my heel straps can. Good for the duffers - not everyone is super agro.
You are not old. I'm almost 68 and I also use Burton Step Ons and like them. Sitting on the snow is not fun. Also my skiing friends don't have to wait for me. Live in San Diego and snowboard in Mammoth most of the time. About three weeks a year. Keep on shredding. 👍
I bought Clew 2 months ago... I don't know why people hate Clew they talk about cheap plastic but all brands use plastic lol.. product isn't perfect but is fantastic for me works with my K2 boots also I bought Burton Custom Camber and I use channel system.. my only complain about Clew is the shock absorption, and bindings is heavy.. I like more responsive bindings but I guess they can do better in shock absorption.. Powder conditions you can just use as normal binding.. otherwise super secure never had a problem with eject etc.
I spent 30+ riding days with my Clews this season, and i'm not going back to normal bindings. Burton SOs are great, but as you correctly mentioned, Clew can be used as standard bindings, when the pow gets deep. That's a huge advantage, plus i already had recently purchased good expensive boots, so going with Clew was the best option for me
If you look at the marketing strategy of clew it says a lot about the product. And they know their target demographic. Clew doesn’t try to get experienced riders to try the product because an experienced rider won’t want them after just looking at them and seeing how bad they are. or they will choose a superior step in like Burton. They target it 100% toward beginners. Find RUclips influencers to sellout to in order to talk the product up to beginners in order to help advertise to beginners as all these influencers are aimed toward beginners. Reality is they are an overpriced inferior product compared to other options. Most experienced riders would never even try a clew simply just because when they look at them they see a 💩 product. Influencers use them because clew pays them to use them and advertise. You won’t find them in your local snowboard shop for a reason. You will see it a lot over the years in snowboarding. Some Joe who went snowboarding with his buddies one time had a great idea on how to revolutionize the snowboard and made this revolutionary product. That is far from revolutionary. And like others it will fail in time because they are not a binding any pro rider would stand behind
Have done approximately 70 days over 3 years in the burton step-ons. I wouldn't go back. Try them for more than just a day and you'll be convinced too.
I have not tried the clews but I have tried the supermatics, flow, and Burton. For my money Burton is the best at the moment followed by flow and then the supermatics. I do think the supermatics will eventually be the best they just need to change a few things. For starters the release lever needs to be something stronger than plastic since it does not lock in the release position. Riding since the 80s. Tried all the crazy things along the way and I do think step ins / ons have a solid future. Not sure I like those k2’s with all that lateral movement.
I tried Flow, K2 and Step On. I like Burton Step On the most. I also would like to try Clew, but I don't have money to burn. I use Burtons with Jones Flagship. It's a good set up.
@@hamedizzy5137 not as much as I would like… but step ons are no different than any other binding in Pow… have to clean out the foot bed regardless man
I'm not for or against them. I use the few seconds of sitting down to strap in as part of my mind prep. Back country boarding is different though. I'm not constantly on and off lifts so the convenience of step ins doesn't really matter for me.
I was prejudiced about step in/on. But, I tried Burton step in and Clew Bindings. I like stiff bindings and more flexible boots, so the feeling of the Burton without straps bothered me. Plus, on pow days, it was practically impossible to click in. I bought the Clew (as incredible as it may seem), because it has straps, it is easy to click in and because it has the option of using a normal binding on pow days. It lacks a little cushioning, but I'm loving it.
I started using the Burton Step Ons a few years ago and they have worked out really well for me. I am 51 and the step ons are easier for me to get into. I am not a park rider so can’t comment on how they are for that aspect. The boots lock securely into the binding and I have never had any issues with the boots coming out or anything. For how I ride, the stop ons work great for me. And on a side note.. I have no skier friends.
K2 Clicker HB with the backs pulled off for my daily rider, modified backs for my Knapton Twin. The response is unreal, the boots are Kamas (stiff) and the side to side wiggle is by design.
I have the K2 Clicker X HB, K2 Clickers (no high back), Clew, Burton Step Ons, Nidecker Supermatics, and GNU Freedom rear entry bindings. Been using them for the last two seasons and so far, have ridden the K2 Clicker X, Clews and Nidecker Supermatics the most, but still bring the Burtons along, just in case.
First season using the Burton Step On X Re:Flex..never going back! I was (am) scared of popping out..especially on a lift and potentially seeing 1500 euro worth of a snowboard and binding fall away to the extent that I still use a lease..though I’ve never come out of the binding even when falling hard. The ease of use, precision and instant reaction is a game changer for me personally. Each to their own though. What works best for any individual is what you should wear.
@@Mark-n4c9tPhotons are great. Spoke to a one of the well known guys at Snowshoe and he rode the Ions, but switched to Photons and couldn't believe the difference in a positive way.
I ride the Photons with step ons , former Ion Cartel EST rider, love the double boa. Crazy responsive setup I really enjoy though sometimes I miss my traditional cartel and Ion strap in combo when poorly attempting butters.
@@go4abe do you find the double boa on burton boots loosens throughout the day? I had a pair of 32 boots with double boa that I had to tighten every few runs and couldn't stand it but kinda want the convenience of boa back lmao
Really like the Burton Step-ons. They don’t have the side to side sloppiness of the K2s. I ride a bit of everything except park and have the Genesis to soften the response a bit and they are perfect for me. The regulars would be too much. Worst part about Burton is being locked into the Burton boots, which are not a great fit for me.
I'm not 100% sure about this but I believe Burton licensed the technology to DC and some other brands so you may have more options in the future. Might be worth checking in with your local shop, they can definitely help get you setup with the right fit.
Im a beginner boarder who just got his first board with Nidecker Supermatics. Love them. As someone who's getting older, you reduce the amount of times to bending down to half. Yes, the common complaint is weight can be an issue but where you rest from being tired with the weight, you make up for in the number of runs you do just by less strap in time.
After 11 years of riding I switched to burton step-ons with photon boot, after burton custom with photon boot (non-step on). I was lucky enough, my buddy was selling them and I asked him to try them out. I felt no difference in terms of trust that they go off. So for me nothing changed except pure joy of comfort. Plus that was a bargain so I have switched and I'm a fan
My first time snowboarding I loved everything about it except strapping in. When it was time to buy my own gear I splurged a bit more to get the Burton Step Ons. I am very happy with my choice.
I've said this before. Step in just solves the number of steps to get in. I'm 40 years old. I had been using flow from the very beginning 20 years. So natural I went Supermatic. The price difference is what kept me from the Burton step-in version. I think both are great. They solve the same problems.
my step ons are the best choice i've ever made, I regularly thrash big couloir with it, havent had any failures yet edit: ive got the burton step ons, with the photon boas, they have an ankle strap as well as the top calf strap, feels close to normal boots/bindings but more responsive
Ive tried burton step ons when i had to rent a setup in Austria, the burton step ons honestly feel almost just like regular bindings, for me it was the clicking in and out that i couldnt get used to in a whole week. I ended up buying Nidecker Supermatics instead for my own setup, they are also step ins but with actual straps, they are literally regular bindings but you can just step in and out really easily! Highly recommend
Started with Switch binding for decades until my boots gave out. Bought the Clickers (without high backs) and been riding them for 5 years. I’m that guy that bombs the mountain and love how quick the turns are.
I've been on the Burton Step-On system for 7 yrs now. I tried the K2 clicker 20+ yrs ago. Step-Ons are getting popular. I'm starting to see them more and more in UT and CO but have not seen 1 person with the K2 Clicker system yet in the last 5 yrs. Goes to show how good the Burton system is.
I'm going on my 3rd season with Burton step-ons (X RE:Flex) with Ion boots. I love to carve/butter, and ride all mountain. I do a lot of torsional flexing of my board so I went with the stiffest setup I could find. Responsiveness is key for my style of riding, and this setup does not disappoint. As the Japanese carver mentioned, they are more responsive, and its noticeable. It will feel weird if you try out the Burton step-ons. This comes down to muscle memory. You're use to pushing/pulling against straps when initiating turns, but with step-ons you're connected directly to the board. It will take a few days to re-develop your muscle memory for that 300 ms difference. If you're trying them out for just a few runs or even for the day, keep in mind that the extra responsiveness will feel weird. It will take a bit for your muscles to adapt to them. I ride every weekend, mostly in the midwest. WI. MI. OH. ...yup, OH has places to ride, haha. And I'm an open to close rider. Because of the small size of these places I spend a lot of time strapping/un-strapping, and sitting on lifts. Being able to step-in without having to sit down/stand up saves a ton of energy and time. Additionally, they are super comfortable on the lift. I dont have straps pulling against my foot. If you're a mid-west rider I can wholeheartedly recommend step-ons for the time/energy save alone. I dont ride a lot of powder, but I ride TONS of sugar (man-made snow from the blowers). Its the mid-west version of powder. Its not hard to dust out your binding and step in when you're standing up...but it is hard to step into a clean binding when you're sitting down on an incline. It takes some force to click into the bindings, and if you dont have something solid to push against, it can be a challenge. It can also be a challenge to get out of them. If you have to get your step-ons off while you're on your back in powder...be a man, just die. If you often find yourself needing to strap in while you're dick-deep in powder, or standing precariously at the edge of the world in the back-country then step-ons might cause you some problems. Short story long, these bindings save me time and energy on the mountain, but most importantly: they perform (and they fuggin better for what they cost :p). They take time to get use to, but once you do, they are legit.
I've been using Burton step-ins for a couple of years now. I'm 57 and love the ease. I'm also generally on a small hill, so the speed at the top and bottom of the runs is a big advantage.
I had the clickers pre high back, 2020, exact same system. I loved them, ran them 2 seasons, but the metal click in piece broken and cracked through the metal base while i was riding. It actually blew my mind. So i went back to straps after that.
The editing and overview was awesome! Thank you! I actually had those K2 step-ins from back in the day, haha. I'm definitely interested in having one cruiser board for all-mountain with step-on's and then one more all-mountain freestyle board with bindings for powder days.
On Step-ons for 2 seasons and love them. Still occasionally fumble getting in them but that’s fine. What I never hear mentioned is how consistent they are as far as pressure and feel. No retightening or loosening ever - same pressure and feel every single time. And really, it’s a good thing that you have to be a little forceful to get out of them vs easy. I’ll ride them until the end. 😑
i have been riding the Burton step ons for ~3 years. I find them superior to straps for a couple reasons. 1 they make the entire board/binding combo lighter (this also reduces the effort needed for doing just about anything on the board). 2 as noted in the video, the direct connection between boot and board also reduces effort to turn and makes precise movement faster (I have not used the clickers specifically but if there is movement between the boots they appear to be an inferior product to the burton step ons). a trick for those not used to a more locked in boarding style is to loosen the boot a bit as there is no adjestment to the binding on step ons, if you have a double boa tighten the lower part of the boot while leaving the top slightly losser. this brings me to number 3, no adjustment in the binding straps (because there are none) means i get the same ride and responsiveness i expect (assuming i don't make my boot too loose or tight). 4 i dont need to get down as often, people have complained that getting a step on is difficult sitting down. it is not, it is just slightly different than the procedure you would go through with traditional straps. I would encourage everyone to at least try step ons but i admit the cost for specific boots and bindings at one time can be a barrier
The clew and nidecker look interesting to me, the clew uses normal boots and has more traditional straps...so i like that idea . There are some things about the nidecker that have me leaning towards Clew or Burton ... if i got Burton though, i would totally have to get boots that had an ankle strap with the BOA tightening system... I've just returned to boarding after 20+ years , now riding with my teenage son. I had Morrow Engage 3 step in bindings and boots when I was a teen, and loved them... i don't fit the boots now so my son has been using them. At 40+ and out of shape i like the idea of step ins , but will have to look into it more, as of now im leaning towards traditional lace boots and strap in bindings, and maybe getting into better shape...lol I'd love to see this video updated with a comparison to Clew bindings as well, to see what you think about them....they're expensive, but it seems the Burton system isn't cheap either, and the clew still allows for any normal boots to he used... Cheers, and thanks for the video...
Old af, but newbie boarder. I have Nidecker Supermatics.It's so nice not to have to strap in -- it definitely accelerated the learning curve for me, particularly on the beginner hill where the run isn't that long. You get the advantages of traditional bindings if that matters to you, and you can use normal boots. I feel like a lot of the reviews are done by super proficient boarders, but there are those of us out there who just want a nice ride down the mountain, and I think for that group (if you have the coin) step-ins are a no-brainer.
I just turned 49. I've skied for years, and just gave snowboarding a try for the first time this year. I've gone twice so far. Not once did I feel the need to sit in the snow to strap in after my initial strap in. I sat down for that one because I had no idea what I was doing. Now I've got my first setup, a Jones Mountain Twin, 32 lashed double BOA boots and Union Force Bindings sitting in my closet waiting for their maiden voyage next winter. Probably the main thing that sucks about east coast living... The very short snow season
I've been using the step on and photon boots for a few years now... love them over my older normal boot/binding setup. The response from them is so much better, and you can fit in more runs per day. You might also hear a clicking noise while riding them but you can rub some wax on the front boot cleats and that stops the sound for a few days. I believe the newer bindings don't have this issue. Test the Burton step on, I think you will find them much better and not so loose.
Its not about saving time..per strap in . Its all about saving energy ,for older riders. Which easy entry bindings does let you ride more laps per day. As you have way more energy.
after couple seasons in normal boots and bindings upgraded my equipment and got burton step on . i consider myself casual rider and they are huge improvement in terms of responsiveness
I've been riding K2 clickers since 2000. Love them. When I did the switch, I found them more responsive than regular ones and told myself I would never go back. I do free riding (powder, trees, steeps) and don't go to the park though. I am glad to know that there are some new options now as I suspect mind will eventually break down (24 years and counting) and was dreading having to go back to straps. Thanks for the video.
I switched to Burton step ons this year and I love them. I do ski patrol at my local mountain and another guy on the patrol had them and I saw how much easier it was for him to “strap in” with a loaded sled. My boots were shot at the end of last year so I pulled the trigger over the summer and bought the boots and the bindings when they were on sale. A little awkward like you said lining it up sometimes, and the release can be a little awkward cause your toes are still locked in, but I found the Burton ones perform better or the same as the strap bindings I’ve used over the years. Also the burtons are LOCKED IN unlike the K2s. Seeing them in your video with the boot lift gave me anxiety lol
I got flows and they really feel like your regular binding once you set them up. No boot restrictions, holds you like any strap bindings, as easy entry. I ride mostly on the playful side but don't shy away from pow days and double blacks.
I love my Flow Nx2's, I've been using mine since 2015. I hate sitting down to strap up and I feel like the best of both types. I can't quite manage to strap up while moving like step in but unstrapping I can.
I started with Burton step ons and ended up switching to straps. The way it supports your foot is not as ideal as straps. The burton boots with the side strap BOA doesn't sit evenly either, at least on my foot. Definitely don't do step ons if you care about freestyle, they are much stiffer and less playful, contrary to the K2's which may be more playful. There just isn't enough variety either for different ride styles.
I ride flow NXT-AT step ins. This season I switched to boots rated 10 in stiffness which gives much better control with the step ins. I have boots rated 7 but they were way to soft for step in bindings. My boots have the boa system which needs to be tightened a few times during the day. The trick to the old K2 clickers was to spray the bottom of your rear boot and the rear binding with pledge furniture polish. Snow will not stick to it and it lasts for a weeks of riding.
I have a pair of flow fuses and I really think rear entry or the supermatics are the way to go. Not only can you get in faster but they also allow you to put your foot in for really short distances. And if you want to you can just use them like normal bindings. Also in some instances it’s much easier to adjust the angle of the high back
I think that the 'use what the pros use' argument is a good one, especially if you're the type of rider who is advanced and wants to continue progressing.
I got lucky and found a used board and strap combo for cheap. The straps were nidecker's supermatic flows which combine the comfort of straps with ease of step-ins which is nice.
I have a couple seasons on the Burton. Get the expensive, stiffer boots. The only issue I have is what you mention re: missing the step in and then things can get interesting. But being over 50, I'll never go back to straps. One thing that I noticed with the K2 is they look more like a bike pedal step in. Toe first. I wish Burtons were toe first also, but the truth is that with stiff boots, it's nothing like clipping into pedals.
Like everything having to do with Snowboarding Burton does it better. I have Step Ons with Photon Boots. The boots needed a Foam Shin insert because my ankles are so skinny. Once I got that my Heels never lifted at all. That being said buying Step Ons was the best thing I ever did to improve my riding. I live in Fernie which is Big Pow country. I never had any issues with getting the bindings to properly engage. I can’t wait to try them with the Hometown Hero I just bought. I’m 69 years old.
I'm probably the opposite of most commenters here. I went from Flows to traditional bindings and I'm not going back. I have screws in my ankle that the traditional heel strap grind on so I used flows for years, they spread out the tension over a larger surface area vs straps. I went from the regular ones to the ones with the hybrid strap like on the supermatics. The hybrid straps were the best version of the Flow. I switched to Rome Kitanas after figuring out I could add padding to my boot to alleviate the issue with the screws in my ankle. I'm never going back to a step in, on or rear entry style binding. Once you learn to strap in standing up it's really only a couple of seconds difference gong in and zero time savings getting out. The Kitanas offer so much more control and feel it's insane.
I have Burton step ins and I love them. I think because the boots have to be tighter and they are more rigid you have more control especially on your toes.
I used to ride K2 clickers. Love the boots and still Ride K2 today. I moved off Clicker after a trip to Crested Butte that just destroyed the system. Would I ride them again… probably, but I don’t know I’d make them my daily drivers. I love the connection I have with the board via straps. It’s not a trust issue as much as it’s a comfort issue knowing I’m connected.
I’m a huge fan of the K2 Clickers. Been riding them for decades without any issues. I also have a bad back and so the ease of stepping in is great, I rarely have to bend over or sit down and touch the binding. Get a stiffer boot and send it.
I've been riding Step Ons for 5 seasons and love them. I've never had a single issue with them. I've ridden them in just about any terrain, including multiple heli trips in steep, gnarly ,and deep terrain. The one thing I don't do is park riding though, so I can't speak to their performance in that regard. I also run the step on splits for touring, and will say they are a MASSIVE step up in the skin track. They have near hardboot levels of stability and grip on sidehills. My set up is the burton Ion SO boots and standard Step Ons as well as the SO Genesis. For me, riding usualy 60+ days per season, mostly freeride, Burton Step Ons have been an absolute game changer. I love them and will never go back to straps. That said, Burton boots have always fit my feet well. For what it's worth, I always recommend to people that if they are going to try Step Ons, think about getting a softer boot than they normally would. All of the response comes from the binding to boot interface, so you don't need a stiff boot to get a responsive ride. If you go with too stiff of a setup, you will feel like you're in hardboots. For most all-mountain/park type riders...look at the swath boots and genesis bindings first, for a freerider look at the Photon and standard SO, and for a full on carving/race rider look at the Ion and Step on X ..just for some suggested boot/binding combos.
My $3,000 story: I learned with traditional bindings. My friend convinced me to buy Burton's stepons first time buying my own gear. I have wide feet. Boot was too tight but I still rode it first winter. I suffered. For next season I got the wide version of the stepon boot. Still suffered. Still too tight. I really enjoyed the bindings but wanted to be comfortable on the mountain. I ordered Clew. With Clew you can have pretty much any boots you want. With Burton you have to get their boot. I bought the widest boot I could find. I am now comfortable. Took me a minute to get used to the Clew, but now I can even step on to them as I slide of the chairlift and I just keep going. So yeah, I spent almost 3K on boots and bindings till I figured what works for me. But now every day on the mountain is so much fun, it's hard to stop riding to take a bathroom break and go home at the end of the day. However; if my friend never told me about the stepon bindings I would have just used the traditional ones from the start and saved a lot of money. In my own personal opinion, after experiencing 3 different types of bindings: Stepons are the most fun to own. And if you don't have wide feet and are comfortable in Burton's boot, go for it. I love my Clew, but the price difference between traditional bindings and Clew bindings just isn't worth the difference on fun you'll have. You can get good traditional bindings for about $120. If Clew were $250-$275 I would recommend getting those. But at $400+ not worth it. Because they have straps you still have to deal with all the issues they come with plus the stepons mechanism. So you're basically adding things that can go wrong to your bindings. With Burton's stepons there are no straps. So it's worth the money in my opinion. Some issues I had with my Clew: When it's really cold and some snow accumulates and turn to ice on the heel, sometimes I can't step all the way in. Sometimes I have to pull the release a few times before it releases. Someone recommended me to put my weight on the heel first and than it releases more easy, but it's not always possible. And turning my snowboard to the right angle so I can put my weight on my heel just to release the boot is kind of contradicting the point of having stepons. It is easier to step into the Clew bindings off the lift than it is with the Burton's ones. I personally don't need to sit on the snow to strap into traditional bindings. So to me Clew saves 10 seconds maybe. Is it worth $400? Not to me. Side note: I met a short thin girl with size 7 feet that also complained about her boot being too tight, and a salesman at a shop that sells Burton's products and he said it's a known thing that Burton has thin boots and people complain about them being too tight.
@@Natures_Symmetry oh i put it on my list of suspects. i was between Maysis and Burton Photon. i'm leaning toward Maysis. i will try your boa option if i get that. Thank you!
I do all mountain carving and buttering mostly, and I switched to the Burton step-ons beginning of last season. I agree that they are harder to get out of than strap bindings. You have to bend down lower than with straps to pull the lever mechanism, and if the ground is not perfectly flat, pressure on the mechanism can make it either hard to pull the lever, or hard to get your heels out of the lock while pulling the lever (depending if you are on your toe or your heel). This had me questioning at the end of my first season whether there was really any point to the step-ons, but after my second season I definitely am sold on the ease of use in general. Getting in is easy of course, although I do still occasionally mess it up on the go. After 2 seasons I still feel like I'm getting better at it, so while it is basically easy, there is a learning curve for complete mastery. There is none of that lateral movement on the Burtons that you were showing with the Clickers. Connection points on the front of the boot are both left and right, so you are locked in both laterally and front-back. Especially with my Photon boots, with the integrated ankle strap, they feel very secure. I would agree with your Japanese friend that they feel really responsive. After 2 seasons I have no 'trust' issues. I've never experienced or heard of failure on step-ons, and I have had plenty of strap failure previously, so step-ons feel like the more secure and reliable choice at this point over strap bindings.
i'm reading a lot of people who got burton step on that would never go back to normal straps, and i agree, i got all kind of bindings but i just don't see the point to install them back on my boards, it would be a set back on responsiveness
I used strap bindings for a few years and switched to the nidecker system and it works really well, still found some moderate issues trying to get in but even then when I had those issues I’d still take no longer than the regular bindings. Took them on bigger jumps than people would lead you to believe about them not being meant for park style boarding but i can understand the logic behind it regardless. I am curious about getting into hard booting for freestyle and pipe riding. I’m aware of Damian Sanders and his preaching about how it rides but I feel if it was truly good the standard wouldn’t be as overwhelmed with soft boots and soft boot systems. To my understanding the carving is better but what about tricks and comfort in park pipe and resort riding conditions. Most videos I find are primarily for back country split boarding but I simply do have that luxury most times I have the opportunity to ride.
Plus over all they looks so much better and are supposed to last much longer only thing is price but I think it’s fine if I’m replacing soft boots for the same price anyways
I broke my burton boots within 30 days, bindings are still going strong. Excited to see that burton is allowing other companies to use the tech, should help develop a better overall product.
Purchased Burton Step-Ons at the end of the 2020 season, sold them in the 2022 for more than I bought them for. Words cannot say how much of a HUGE quality of life improvement they are for normal riding. By day 3 on them I was clicking in the moment I stood up from the lift and was shredding it down the runs (before my skier friends had their straps on their wrists). It genuinely does make life easier on the mountain, and made for fantastic high speed riding as they were so locked in and responsive. However, there was trouble in paradise. I suffered from the usual suspects. The Australian snow had an exceptional habit of getting between the binding baseplate and footbed, which meant that over the day it got harder to step in as my baseplate was higher, meaning I had to really stomp my foot down to engage the second ratchet on the back cleat. When fresh snow fell, I had to clear it by hand on every run when I'd normally be able to kick the snow free as part of stepping on. I also found it ridiculously difficult to step in on steep slopes, requiring me to make a platform to strap in on runs where there was no good flat option that wasn't in the way of disembarking riders. But none of those where the reason I sold them. One thing I have noticed that very few of the reviews cover, is just how locked in the Burton Step On's are. The three point locking system really changes how everything performs in the system, including both the boot and the binding. The most noticeable difference, is how it gives the soul of your boot the flexibility of concrete. You can really feel how little give the base of your boot has, and for those with flat feet it causes excessive discomfort and overflattening of the arch. Not only that, but you feel every little piece of ice or snow that is packed between your boot and your soul. It was, overall, just an uncomfortable experience. And let to me taking way more breaks on the mountain than I ever had previously. It was a hard decision selling the Step Ons, but one that with hindsight I would do again in a heartbeat. Comparing Burton Step On's to normal bindings is like comparing Telemarks to regular ski bindings. They may resemble each other, but perform so differently that they aren't really comparable.
I rode with Flows late 90's and moved on to SP Labs later. This season I got my Clew bindings and simply love them and would not trade them for anything
I made the change in 1999 with the K2 high back and the boots are made by Shimano. Been running them for so long I never even noticed it wasn’t cool. I only ride with skiers and also don’t spend much time in the park. I only had one problem over 20 years. It was at the top of mammoth mountain on a snow day and we did a little hike to get to a shoot and couldn’t give my boot on. After a couple sec stomping I took it off and found a pebble on my boot at the place it hooks in. Ez to just poke it out and down the mt I went. I made the change so long ago I really didn’t remember the last time I used strap bindings. I spent a couple weeks running hard ski boots on a big slalom board with both toes pointing down the. Mountain. Also spent a couple weeks with my board set up backwards it was to Help to be more comfortable running switch. Working at a resort you get speed lots on time on the hill and you do not feel like you have to get on as many runs in because you can go out the next day
I owned a pair of 2nd generation K2 Clicker (actually they were called Kwicker at that time , it was about 2012 and they had no highback like their 90’s cousins). I can confirm some of the issues you found using them, first off the lateral play, it was a lot and I had the feeling like it was getting worse with time. Stepping in wasn’t the easiest thing if you had packed snow underneath, at that time I used to ride with a group of radical free skiers (yes I did get the k2s also to try and keep up with them), well, each and every time we got a good dump I was always struggling, hitting my left boot against the right one to try and free the metal studs from snow packed underneath, meanwhile the fuxkers were already entering the woods and ripping. One more thing I can say about them is that I ruined the topsheet of my board when skating around with one foot out because the front metal part of the sole was sticking out enough to touch the board. Other minor issues were the fact the you had no chance of releasing a couple of clicks on the “bindings” to have your feet circulation restored while on the lifts (I mean you could undo the boas, but then you had to re tighten them from zero, as they reset when popped open); also the boots were heavy as fuxk and had a sole so rigid that I thought I was walking with my father’s ski boots again while crossing the parking lot 😅 I believe the current Clickers are better, but I think that a step-in wannabe would be better off with Burton’s Step-on
I wish you included Clews in this review. They represent the best of both worlds. You get pretty much the same straps plus the feel and safety as with regular bindings along with the convenience of easily stepping in and out of the bindings. I've had it for one season now, which obviously doesn't answer the question about its longevity, but loving every minute of it so far
Rode FLOWs for the last 2 seasons and liked them. Switched to CLEWs this season and I like them too. For me it's a mobility issue as I have old skate & snowboarding injuries so the step ins really make a huge difference. Happy I've found products that allow me to continue to do what I Love. You just gotta find what works for you.
I have the Burton Step Ons since 2019 and it's all I know. Also, never had any issues with them, I'm starting to hit jumps and park too. I even like wearing them kinda loose.
I rode the original k2 clickers for 20 years and loved them every time. Id still ride them but my boys need replacing and they aren't made anymore. I currently ride the nidecker supermatic and recommend those too
I’ve been riding supermatics for 2 seasons, off piste & park they’re really responsive, slightly softer than my union atlas pro’s so I’ll try the carbon version soon.
20yrs ago i tried step-ons (cant remember brand), last year i tried burton step-on, same problem with both, feels like the boot is the only thing supporting you and it needs to fit so perfect to feel "right"... this year i tried the supermatics, and for me it would work on softer boards since i feel like the highback is too soft... And they are a bit heavy. Staying on traditional bindings since u can find a better fit/suitible binding for a lower price and only saving about a minute or two per day 🤷♂️
I see some people in the mid-west using step-on bindings, but over all most still use traditional bindings. Here in Vermont I am sticking to my Nitro Team and Team Pro bindings with my Beast boards. I do mostly park, and feel way more secure in them. I have tried step-on bindings from Burton, and definitely was not for me.
I've got some Clew binding on pre-order for next season. As I do most of my boarding at indoor centres in the UK, quick entry will make a big difference to me.
Never understood why they weren't more widespread, but the Flow-like bindings offer the best of both world : Fast, standing-up, while-already-riding get in ; and strap support and adjustable stiffness. (seems like the new supermatics are good in this area too)
i switched to the burton step ons last year after i was fed up with my binding straps snapping once a week... haven't had a single problem OTHER than it feels like i gotta tighten my boots every once in a while, but i think ima make a strap like mechanism to go around my boot itself, might work dont you think?
Riding off & on for 15 years. Bought Burton steps in January after a strap broke on my Salamons. I'm 47 now and admit I love the lazy factor. Just get a good sized quality stomp pad with a boot scraper......you're gonna need it for pow days
there are Clew Step-in Hybrids which are the best of both worlds but i dont have them yet since im still new and suing straps but soon im gonna get clew bindings. Overall it all comes down to just having fun and i love snowboarding even though im brand new.
The only thing I hate with step in bindings is the "Need" to buy special boots for them, and the insane amount of movement and looseness between you in the board. I have ridden the other step in bindings that still have straps. Nidecker Supermatics are expensive and were great but started to break halfway through a single season, and too heavy and not flexible enough to hit park with. I found out about Flow bindings and traded the broken supermatic's for a pair of Flow bindings. The Flow and K2 Cinch are certainly a better option and more responsive bc they still have straps, and no weird mechanical stuff that result in you having to try and ask ski patrol for a screwdriver to fix your board at the top of the mountain (like i did with the Nidecker). they just work using a cable and a little lever that adds tension to keep the hiback upright. Way safer, and if the step in stuff doesnt wanna work for some reason you still have straps.
I bought Supermatics and used them for an entire season. I would never go back to a traditional binding. No matter how fast you can strap in, Supermatics are faster, they are comfortable, and have great response. I love them, my GF has Burton Step ons and my daughter straps in. We hate waiting on my daughter to strap in, haha. She will soon have Supermatics too, as she complains that we get in so much faster. My GF's Burton Boa Boot loosens up after a few runs, as I only adjust my gear at the beginning of the day. The main reason i went to Supermatics over Burtons was my Salomon boots are super comfy and I did not want to buy new into Burton boots and step ons and get an uncomfortable boot plus spend even more $$$. I have not had any issues with the Supermatics, it took me about 3 runs to get used to getting in and out of them easily.
I like the support of normal bindings and have problem with tight boots for nervs and blood circulation! i Will say that burton Wide boots are a game changer. take the extra 5 sec to hang with the friends! its a lift qwue anyway!
Been using Flow since 2002 before they had ratcheting straps and just ordered the Flow Fuse yesterday. Great bindings. I looked at the supermatics too but couldn't justify paying like 3x.
Used Burton step ons for 4 seasons now. I wouldnt even look at other step in systems (exept supermatics) as they just look still to be stuck in the 1990s.( ive ridden since 92 and had lowbacks, baseless etc. strap binding back then and they were as bad bakc then.) Note aswell where you ride, my avg. hill here is 400m/1300ft, so it takes about 1 minute to blast down to elevator, which takes 3minutes back up, so the step ins are more than great system here. if i would live near a higher hill or mountain i probably would use strap bindings as there would be less strapping in and out. Yes for step ins.
we ride the first series of burton step ons still after i don't know how many years now. we ride them on everything. my wife has the simpler ones but burton makes ones that have a dual boa for big stuff and they have more support across the instep with a second boa. have taken them park, pipe, all mountain, powder, andcannot complain. i have seen beginners who don't know how they work not lock in properly and lose their board on the lift -both burton and clew -so know your gear and check before you ride that you are seated into the mechanism properly. All that said i mainly ride resrots and i'm from Ontario canada where the lines are long and the lifts are short but they were great at tremblant and killington too. ill be honest, the k2 ones you rode look terrible, but its their first year. give them time to fine tune with rider feedback.
So 2 of my buddies have these and the main problem is the snow gets packed in the boot lock in area and they constantly have to scrape out the hard pack snow in that boot lock in section. It’s no problem on slushy days and icy days. Pow days they are extra slow with the constant scraping. They have had them for 3 season and switched back to strap bindings
I just wanted to try out Flow bindings and I must say that they will probaly be my main choice for my other setup aswell. Like, lets be honest, the time diffrence doesnt really is that big if youre a seasoned boarder but they arent just quicker, they feel amazing aswell. I got Flow Fuse Carbon and I love them in the park, cant wait to try them out on my freecarver aswell...! Traditional bindings are fine and super reliable but these flows, they got me convinced for the future!
I personally ride the clickers since the day they premiered I ride them today still with no backs to them send them on everything I do haven't let me down yet love em I generally do freeride but hit the big jumps on boring days ..
Using flow 2 lights and I'm happy with them, save me a lot of time and effort, sometimes I'm quicker to strap in than my ski friends are to sort out their skis and poles 😅
I'm 43 and and I chose clew step in to help me. I don't get tired bending over especially when I'm up down up down on park or at the indie slope. I'm not hard core so it worked for me it's horses for courses as they say
Switched to Burton Step Ons and DC Judge boots mid-season after a catastrophic failure of my traditional bindings on a double black. I hurt my back in the fall, and got the step ons so I wouldn't have to bend over as much. I absolutely love them. Best decision I've made. My local East Coast mountain is tiny and the servings that you save really add up.
I race, ride all mountain, and pretend to hit the park.
Known from time to time to dabble in a few knuckles 😂
what's your setup?
@@gboates I primarily run a Greats Uninc 156 with Step Ons + DC Judge (for my wider feet). For powder and race days I have a Jones Hovercraft 2.0.
Don’t you still have to bend over?
I'm using this same binding and boot setup on a Jones Freecarver 9000. Good stuff.
"we're going to try step ins..."
Makes you wonder if they were paid 😂.
Right? I mean, the Flow bindings have been around for a LONG time and those were initially the closest to a "regular" binding.
The new Nideckers are the real deal..... a "normal" binding you can step into if you want to use it that way. I've used all 3 (Union/Burton classic bindings, Flow step-ins, Nidecker step-ins). Just bought the Nideckers this year. Honestly liked the Flow "Hybrid" bindings the best for responsiveness...really has more to do with the ankle strap and heel cup designs and relative flex than anything else. I'm not a fan of the newest rage of "mesh flex" (or "3D flex") toe and ankle straps. I don't like the flex ankle strap on the Nidecker step-in. I need to stiffen up the upper of my Salomon boots to feel the same "locked in" feel when transitioning to my toe-edge. I had this on one of my old Burton bindings too and was one reason I opted to try the Flow hybrid bindings.
Best thing I tried..... took the Flow Hybrid ankle strap and installed on my Nidecker supermatic step-ins...... heaven. All the responsiveness I was looking for when switching from heel to toe edge, and all the convenience of using EITHER step-in or classic rip and ratchet binding straps.
@@jeebs9 I didn't pay ed shreds. I did get him the clickers though.
if you guys get me the others ones we will try them, but didn't have access
@@ShredSchool1 you can rent them for cheap at gear shops, I know the Step Ons are at the Burton stores for like $30 a day.
I’ve been riding Burton step ons for the past 4 or 5 years and will never go back. I love them so much I have three sets of step on bindings. I don’t feel loose or that I’m going to pop out of them. If anyone ever tells you that you’ll pop out of them, it’s 100% user error
I don’t live in the mountains, but ride Mammoth 5-6 days a month…the altitude is an ass kicker, even after hitting the gym multiple times a week. With Step-Ons you’re not trying to stand from a seated position in the snow 20-30 times a day at 10,000 ft, thus saving LOTS of energy.
I'm 64 and lived through the first step in era. K2 Burton and even a Salomon step in that was excellent but was never brought to market. They all had issues . After many years on Flow, I switched to the Burton Step On with Burton Photon boots. I have 75 days so far this year. Riding all Mountain, Powder, moguls,switch and carving. No park, much to old for the crashing although I eat it enough in the bumps. The performance of the system is awesome. Very,very good response. No issues what so ever even in deeper snow. I laugh every time I hear the "if there so good ,why don't pros ride them?" I'm a solid Joe and they suit me just fine!
Same; I had the original Clickers back in 98 for a couple of seasons. Then I went back. 3 years ago I went Burton StepOns and it's a game changer. Love them.
I'm almost 68 and used Burton Step On for a second season. Sometimes I have a problem with second click, but I like them. I had K2 clickers and metal palates on the bottoms of boots were freezing my feet. I would love to try Clew, but they are expensive and some saying that Burton are better.
Problem with this video, it's opinion based on one brand of step in. Try different ones then make the judgement. Ived asked a lot of people who have tried the burtons, knnideckers, and clews. They all love them and have said they can never go back to regular bindings. Out of all the people ived asked, none were k2s.
I have a pair of nideckers and got them after weighing in the pros and cons of the other systems. The biggest reason is because theyre the closest to regular bindings. I eventually will try the burtons but thatll be a huge extra cost because you need special boots for that system.
I use Burton Step On and like them. K2 have metal plates on bottoms of boots and they were freezing my feet so I sold them after one season. I would like to try Clew, but they are the most expensive.
@@lesp315you should look up angrysnowboarder's review of the Clews. he found some pretty major issues with them
I've tried Burtons (2023). My hangup with them is that they don't allow for fine-adjustment. Some days I want the straps cranked and some days I want them loose. Depends on conditions - both snow and my own body. Also not keen on having to use Burton or DC boots as my feet hate them (vans all the way!! 😆) *Edit: and I run my board the same as Ed. Stiff bindings (Union Atlas/Force), soft boots (Van HiStd).
Dude. Same. Forces with my Hi-Std OGs. Or NOW Select Pros. Want my board and bindings doing all the work, not my feet.
There's actually a couple more companies coming out with step-ons.
The best step-in is the Nidecker Supermatic, you don‘t need a special boot, you can use it with all normal snowboard boots, it is overall the best system, very quick in and out and you have the option to use it in the traditional way in hard condition in deep snow.
I use mine whenever I'm hiking the park. Saves a ton of time. Still ride my NOW bindings whenever I'm just out cruising.
All my boards have the Supermatic now. Only downsides are they're expensive and heavy, and the occasional snow getting into the mechanism and jamming the lever from getting loose. Hoping they can at least redesign it and make it lighter.
I finally got to take my Supermatics for a ride last weekend and I'd say the exact same thing. I'm not very skilled, but when the powder wasn't too deep I managed to step in whilst skating off of the lift a few times, and that felt pretty great!
Now, when I accidentally flipped into 4ft+ powder or tripped over a yuppy ski family and clogged the ratchet mechanism with snow...uh oh....all I had to do was unstrap and move on. Best of both worlds with any boot you choose!
You still have to adjust straps
@@fudhater8592 only the first time, every time after that the straps are already set in place.
Burton's Step Ons are on a whole new level, a million miles ahead of Clickers. Just as the Japanese rides said, they are actually more responsive than traditional bindings (while easier to step in than those Clickers). If that's still not enough for you, put on a couple foam spacers on top of your footbed. This makes it harder to step in, but the connection is even more solid. Please Please Please! You must try out those! Let me know if you are actually planning to, I can send you guys pictures of my setup (Most poor reviews are due to poor setups).
I will have to give them a try
@@ShredSchool1please do. I have ridden a variety of step in / on / clicker bindings from the first generation and probably hit the biggest jump of my life on a rental setup with those steel disk click in step on bindings with no high back. Wild …didn’t feel super in control. Owned a set of the original Burton step in (SI) customs with the freestyle boots. That was the best setup of its time. I rode mine until the boot basically fell apart. (Due to neglect probably lol. Riding in the rain. Once I melted some of it in front of a fire. I’m assuming that’s why the sole let go but otherwise I’ve never came out of them and I crashed super super hard doing dumb shit when I was young. Flash forward, I got the 2019 Burton Step On system with the Ion boots and I’m super happy with it. Probably the best riding setup I’ve tried. I mounted the new burtons in place of my old ones on my 2003 ride exile and it kills ice coast. I haven’t rode straps in years and I kind of don’t miss it. If I had money I would grab the best strap system to compare but I have to say the performance has been outstanding from my Burton Step On system with the Ion boots. Solid 🤙🏼
I use them. They are great. I had K2 and Burtons Step On are much better.
@@DazzToneit’s not just you, those old Burton step on boots fall apart no matter what. I work at a used sporting good store and I’ve yet to see a pair come in that doesn’t have the sole coming off with a little bit of force
Test the Burton version.
Started using Nidecker Supermatics this season. I've just turned 60 & this deffo easier to get into, with less bending over. They were tricky to get out when I bailed in deep snow as it was hard to get to the release button. Overall I love them
That's when you release the bindings the usual way instead of using the level release. Just mark the straps where you set up the bindings so you know where to rachet it to. It's how I remember how far to rachet it for me whenever I need to unstrap the bindings the 'usual' way. Other than deep pow, it's always use of the lever.
I am using the Nidecker Supermatic.
On a sunny bluebird day the step ins work amazing. Get out of the chairlift, step in. Done.
On a powder day, if it is too deep, just strap like a regular binding.
Compatible with any board mounting system (yes even the burton channel system) Compatible with all regular boots.
Drawbacks. The binding is heavier than your normal binding. And also more expensive
Give it a try.
my step ins weigh 400 grams combined. Nideckers are not good,
To provide context so you can decide if my comments are of any value, I’m a 50 year old guy that lives in Iowa. The local ski areas have elevation changes of less than 200’. I have to drive 10 hours to get to the nearest mountain. As a result I usually get less than 10 mountain days a year. I taught myself to snowboard when I was 30 and the park is generally a place I don’t go. To sum it up, I’m old and don’t get out much.
I switched to Burton Step Ons 4 years ago and absolutely love them. I don’t feel the excessive play like was mentioned with the K2s. For me the responsiveness is excellent and I have never had a problem with popping out of my bindings unintentionally so long as I was properly clicked in. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of stepping in or getting out of the bindings and I’ve even managed to step in while getting off the lift for a seamless transition to the run.
For an old guy like me Burton Step Ons are the way to go. I can go anywhere I want to go and have no worries. Getting in and out is a breeze, I will sometimes even take my board completely off so as to be much more comfortable when standing in a lift line because it only takes a second to put the board down and step one foot in.
For me the ease and comfort are game changers. I’m too old to want to learn tricks and jumps, my body just doesn’t recover as and I work a job that I can’t do if I’m injured, but I feel confident that the bindings would perform well.
I think Step Ons are a great addition to the lineup for us old losers. It expands the envelope making snowboarding accessible to more people and allowing us old dudes to keep riding longer. I may not be cool enough to shred but I can still get out there and enjoy the mountain. I think that’s what it’s all about.
Great contribution! Happy to hear you are getting out there and shredding it
Preach on
Just enjoying the sport, views and fresh air
I'm turning 71 and carve hard, posi posi angles 9/10 boards. I can't find a pair of boots that can take the pressure my heel straps can. Good for the duffers - not everyone is super agro.
You are not old. I'm almost 68 and I also use Burton Step Ons and like them. Sitting on the snow is not fun. Also my skiing friends don't have to wait for me. Live in San Diego and snowboard in Mammoth most of the time. About three weeks a year. Keep on shredding. 👍
I bought Clew 2 months ago... I don't know why people hate Clew they talk about cheap plastic but all brands use plastic lol.. product isn't perfect but is fantastic for me works with my K2 boots also I bought Burton Custom Camber and I use channel system.. my only complain about Clew is the shock absorption, and bindings is heavy.. I like more responsive bindings but I guess they can do better in shock absorption.. Powder conditions you can just use as normal binding.. otherwise super secure never had a problem with eject etc.
I spent 30+ riding days with my Clews this season, and i'm not going back to normal bindings.
Burton SOs are great, but as you correctly mentioned, Clew can be used as standard bindings, when the pow gets deep.
That's a huge advantage, plus i already had recently purchased good expensive boots, so going with Clew was the best option for me
If you look at the marketing strategy of clew it says a lot about the product. And they know their target demographic.
Clew doesn’t try to get experienced riders to try the product because an experienced rider won’t want them after just looking at them and seeing how bad they are. or they will choose a superior step in like Burton.
They target it 100% toward beginners. Find RUclips influencers to sellout to in order to talk the product up to beginners in order to help advertise to beginners as all these influencers are aimed toward beginners. Reality is they are an overpriced inferior product compared to other options. Most experienced riders would never even try a clew simply just because when they look at them they see a 💩 product.
Influencers use them because clew pays them to use them and advertise. You won’t find them in your local snowboard shop for a reason.
You will see it a lot over the years in snowboarding. Some Joe who went snowboarding with his buddies one time had a great idea on how to revolutionize the snowboard and made this revolutionary product. That is far from revolutionary. And like others it will fail in time because they are not a binding any pro rider would stand behind
Have done approximately 70 days over 3 years in the burton step-ons. I wouldn't go back.
Try them for more than just a day and you'll be convinced too.
I have not tried the clews but I have tried the supermatics, flow, and Burton. For my money Burton is the best at the moment followed by flow and then the supermatics. I do think the supermatics will eventually be the best they just need to change a few things. For starters the release lever needs to be something stronger than plastic since it does not lock in the release position. Riding since the 80s. Tried all the crazy things along the way and I do think step ins / ons have a solid future. Not sure I like those k2’s with all that lateral movement.
I love my flow bindings! I was super stoked the first time trying them out in the park!
I tried Flow, K2 and Step On. I like Burton Step On the most. I also would like to try Clew, but I don't have money to burn. I use Burtons with Jones Flagship. It's a good set up.
After 15 years of riding, bought step ons this season… will never go back
Don’t ride much pow I guess
@@hamedizzy5137 not as much as I would like… but step ons are no different than any other binding in Pow… have to clean out the foot bed regardless man
@hamedizzy5137 you can 100 percent ride POW in them
@@bob6693 you’ll need a brush lol
@@hamedizzy5137 How do you know? Have you actually tried step ons in powder? I have, and had no problem, nor need for a brush.
I'm not for or against them. I use the few seconds of sitting down to strap in as part of my mind prep. Back country boarding is different though. I'm not constantly on and off lifts so the convenience of step ins doesn't really matter for me.
I was prejudiced about step in/on. But, I tried Burton step in and Clew Bindings. I like stiff bindings and more flexible boots, so the feeling of the Burton without straps bothered me. Plus, on pow days, it was practically impossible to click in. I bought the Clew (as incredible as it may seem), because it has straps, it is easy to click in and because it has the option of using a normal binding on pow days. It lacks a little cushioning, but I'm loving it.
I started using the Burton Step Ons a few years ago and they have worked out really well for me. I am 51 and the step ons are easier for me to get into. I am not a park rider so can’t comment on how they are for that aspect. The boots lock securely into the binding and I have never had any issues with the boots coming out or anything. For how I ride, the stop ons work great for me. And on a side note.. I have no skier friends.
K2 Clicker HB with the backs pulled off for my daily rider, modified backs for my Knapton Twin. The response is unreal, the boots are Kamas (stiff) and the side to side wiggle is by design.
I have the K2 Clicker X HB, K2 Clickers (no high back), Clew, Burton Step Ons, Nidecker Supermatics, and GNU Freedom rear entry bindings. Been using them for the last two seasons and so far, have ridden the K2 Clicker X, Clews and Nidecker Supermatics the most, but still bring the Burtons along, just in case.
First season using the Burton Step On X Re:Flex..never going back! I was (am) scared of popping out..especially on a lift and potentially seeing 1500 euro worth of a snowboard and binding fall away to the extent that I still use a lease..though I’ve never come out of the binding even when falling hard. The ease of use, precision and instant reaction is a game changer for me personally. Each to their own though. What works best for any individual is what you should wear.
great to hear. Do you have to ride pretty stiff boots for this?
Yeah I ride the Burton Ions. I am thinking about also getting the Photons for the double Boa system! Great vid BTW! ❤@@ShredSchool1
@@Mark-n4c9tPhotons are great. Spoke to a one of the well known guys at Snowshoe and he rode the Ions, but switched to Photons and couldn't believe the difference in a positive way.
I ride the Photons with step ons , former Ion Cartel EST rider, love the double boa. Crazy responsive setup I really enjoy though sometimes I miss my traditional cartel and Ion strap in combo when poorly attempting butters.
@@go4abe do you find the double boa on burton boots loosens throughout the day? I had a pair of 32 boots with double boa that I had to tighten every few runs and couldn't stand it but kinda want the convenience of boa back lmao
Really like the Burton Step-ons. They don’t have the side to side sloppiness of the K2s. I ride a bit of everything except park and have the Genesis to soften the response a bit and they are perfect for me. The regulars would be too much. Worst part about Burton is being locked into the Burton boots, which are not a great fit for me.
Yeah i gotta try these too
I'm not 100% sure about this but I believe Burton licensed the technology to DC and some other brands so you may have more options in the future. Might be worth checking in with your local shop, they can definitely help get you setup with the right fit.
I’ll keep an eye out for that. Thanks!
DC - better heel lock
I have the dc boots with mine and they feel great
Im a beginner boarder who just got his first board with Nidecker Supermatics. Love them. As someone who's getting older, you reduce the amount of times to bending down to half. Yes, the common complaint is weight can be an issue but where you rest from being tired with the weight, you make up for in the number of runs you do just by less strap in time.
After 11 years of riding I switched to burton step-ons with photon boot, after burton custom with photon boot (non-step on). I was lucky enough, my buddy was selling them and I asked him to try them out. I felt no difference in terms of trust that they go off. So for me nothing changed except pure joy of comfort. Plus that was a bargain so I have switched and I'm a fan
My first time snowboarding I loved everything about it except strapping in. When it was time to buy my own gear I splurged a bit more to get the Burton Step Ons. I am very happy with my choice.
Good stuff!
I've said this before. Step in just solves the number of steps to get in. I'm 40 years old. I had been using flow from the very beginning 20 years. So natural I went Supermatic. The price difference is what kept me from the Burton step-in version. I think both are great. They solve the same problems.
my step ons are the best choice i've ever made, I regularly thrash big couloir with it, havent had any failures yet
edit: ive got the burton step ons, with the photon boas, they have an ankle strap as well as the top calf strap, feels close to normal boots/bindings but more responsive
I switched to Nidecker Supermatics. Don’t need special boots. All of the goodness of step ins and none of the feeling of looseness.
Ive tried burton step ons when i had to rent a setup in Austria, the burton step ons honestly feel almost just like regular bindings, for me it was the clicking in and out that i couldnt get used to in a whole week. I ended up buying Nidecker Supermatics instead for my own setup, they are also step ins but with actual straps, they are literally regular bindings but you can just step in and out really easily! Highly recommend
Started with Switch binding for decades until my boots gave out. Bought the Clickers (without high backs) and been riding them for 5 years. I’m that guy that bombs the mountain and love how quick the turns are.
Friends and I all switch until the boots gave out, then Burton Step In. Feels super locked-in. And lighter.
I've been on the Burton Step-On system for 7 yrs now. I tried the K2 clicker 20+ yrs ago. Step-Ons are getting popular. I'm starting to see them more and more in UT and CO but have not seen 1 person with the K2 Clicker system yet in the last 5 yrs. Goes to show how good the Burton system is.
I'm going on my 3rd season with Burton step-ons (X RE:Flex) with Ion boots. I love to carve/butter, and ride all mountain. I do a lot of torsional flexing of my board so I went with the stiffest setup I could find. Responsiveness is key for my style of riding, and this setup does not disappoint.
As the Japanese carver mentioned, they are more responsive, and its noticeable. It will feel weird if you try out the Burton step-ons. This comes down to muscle memory. You're use to pushing/pulling against straps when initiating turns, but with step-ons you're connected directly to the board. It will take a few days to re-develop your muscle memory for that 300 ms difference.
If you're trying them out for just a few runs or even for the day, keep in mind that the extra responsiveness will feel weird. It will take a bit for your muscles to adapt to them.
I ride every weekend, mostly in the midwest. WI. MI. OH. ...yup, OH has places to ride, haha. And I'm an open to close rider. Because of the small size of these places I spend a lot of time strapping/un-strapping, and sitting on lifts.
Being able to step-in without having to sit down/stand up saves a ton of energy and time. Additionally, they are super comfortable on the lift. I dont have straps pulling against my foot.
If you're a mid-west rider I can wholeheartedly recommend step-ons for the time/energy save alone.
I dont ride a lot of powder, but I ride TONS of sugar (man-made snow from the blowers). Its the mid-west version of powder. Its not hard to dust out your binding and step in when you're standing up...but it is hard to step into a clean binding when you're sitting down on an incline.
It takes some force to click into the bindings, and if you dont have something solid to push against, it can be a challenge. It can also be a challenge to get out of them. If you have to get your step-ons off while you're on your back in powder...be a man, just die.
If you often find yourself needing to strap in while you're dick-deep in powder, or standing precariously at the edge of the world in the back-country then step-ons might cause you some problems.
Short story long, these bindings save me time and energy on the mountain, but most importantly: they perform (and they fuggin better for what they cost :p). They take time to get use to, but once you do, they are legit.
I've been using Burton step-ins for a couple of years now. I'm 57 and love the ease. I'm also generally on a small hill, so the speed at the top and bottom of the runs is a big advantage.
I use Burton step on for 4 years already. Perfect, great response, easy to get in and out.
I had the clickers pre high back, 2020, exact same system. I loved them, ran them 2 seasons, but the metal click in piece broken and cracked through the metal base while i was riding. It actually blew my mind. So i went back to straps after that.
The editing and overview was awesome! Thank you! I actually had those K2 step-ins from back in the day, haha. I'm definitely interested in having one cruiser board for all-mountain with step-on's and then one more all-mountain freestyle board with bindings for powder days.
Test #1 should be can you find a pair of comfortable boots and for how much.
the K2s were surprisingly comfortable and I am picky with boots
On Step-ons for 2 seasons and love them. Still occasionally fumble getting in them but that’s fine. What I never hear mentioned is how consistent they are as far as pressure and feel. No retightening or loosening ever - same pressure and feel every single time. And really, it’s a good thing that you have to be a little forceful to get out of them vs easy. I’ll ride them until the end. 😑
i have been riding the Burton step ons for ~3 years. I find them superior to straps for a couple reasons. 1 they make the entire board/binding combo lighter (this also reduces the effort needed for doing just about anything on the board). 2 as noted in the video, the direct connection between boot and board also reduces effort to turn and makes precise movement faster (I have not used the clickers specifically but if there is movement between the boots they appear to be an inferior product to the burton step ons). a trick for those not used to a more locked in boarding style is to loosen the boot a bit as there is no adjestment to the binding on step ons, if you have a double boa tighten the lower part of the boot while leaving the top slightly losser. this brings me to number 3, no adjustment in the binding straps (because there are none) means i get the same ride and responsiveness i expect (assuming i don't make my boot too loose or tight). 4 i dont need to get down as often, people have complained that getting a step on is difficult sitting down. it is not, it is just slightly different than the procedure you would go through with traditional straps. I would encourage everyone to at least try step ons but i admit the cost for specific boots and bindings at one time can be a barrier
The clew and nidecker look interesting to me, the clew uses normal boots and has more traditional straps...so i like that idea . There are some things about the nidecker that have me leaning towards Clew or Burton ... if i got Burton though, i would totally have to get boots that had an ankle strap with the BOA tightening system...
I've just returned to boarding after 20+ years , now riding with my teenage son. I had Morrow Engage 3 step in bindings and boots when I was a teen, and loved them... i don't fit the boots now so my son has been using them. At 40+ and out of shape i like the idea of step ins , but will have to look into it more, as of now im leaning towards traditional lace boots and strap in bindings, and maybe getting into better shape...lol
I'd love to see this video updated with a comparison to Clew bindings as well, to see what you think about them....they're expensive, but it seems the Burton system isn't cheap either, and the clew still allows for any normal boots to he used...
Cheers, and thanks for the video...
Old af, but newbie boarder. I have Nidecker Supermatics.It's so nice not to have to strap in -- it definitely accelerated the learning curve for me, particularly on the beginner hill where the run isn't that long. You get the advantages of traditional bindings if that matters to you, and you can use normal boots. I feel like a lot of the reviews are done by super proficient boarders, but there are those of us out there who just want a nice ride down the mountain, and I think for that group (if you have the coin) step-ins are a no-brainer.
Check out (╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻ AngrySnowboarder's review of the Clew vs. Supermatics. When it comes to build constructions, there's a pretty big difference.
@TheNewGreenIsBlue that guy didn't give an honest review.
I just turned 49. I've skied for years, and just gave snowboarding a try for the first time this year. I've gone twice so far. Not once did I feel the need to sit in the snow to strap in after my initial strap in. I sat down for that one because I had no idea what I was doing. Now I've got my first setup, a Jones Mountain Twin, 32 lashed double BOA boots and Union Force Bindings sitting in my closet waiting for their maiden voyage next winter. Probably the main thing that sucks about east coast living... The very short snow season
I've been using the step on and photon boots for a few years now... love them over my older normal boot/binding setup. The response from them is so much better, and you can fit in more runs per day. You might also hear a clicking noise while riding them but you can rub some wax on the front boot cleats and that stops the sound for a few days. I believe the newer bindings don't have this issue. Test the Burton step on, I think you will find them much better and not so loose.
Its not about saving time..per strap in .
Its all about saving energy ,for older riders.
Which easy entry bindings does let you ride more laps per day.
As you have way more energy.
after couple seasons in normal boots and bindings upgraded my equipment and got burton step on . i consider myself casual rider and they are huge improvement in terms of responsiveness
I've been riding K2 clickers since 2000. Love them. When I did the switch, I found them more responsive than regular ones and told myself I would never go back. I do free riding (powder, trees, steeps) and don't go to the park though. I am glad to know that there are some new options now as I suspect mind will eventually break down (24 years and counting) and was dreading having to go back to straps. Thanks for the video.
I switched to Burton step ons this year and I love them. I do ski patrol at my local mountain and another guy on the patrol had them and I saw how much easier it was for him to “strap in” with a loaded sled. My boots were shot at the end of last year so I pulled the trigger over the summer and bought the boots and the bindings when they were on sale. A little awkward like you said lining it up sometimes, and the release can be a little awkward cause your toes are still locked in, but I found the Burton ones perform better or the same as the strap bindings I’ve used over the years. Also the burtons are LOCKED IN unlike the K2s. Seeing them in your video with the boot lift gave me anxiety lol
I got flows and they really feel like your regular binding once you set them up.
No boot restrictions, holds you like any strap bindings, as easy entry. I ride mostly on the playful side but don't shy away from pow days and double blacks.
flows have been in the game a long time, since 96 i think. I have never tried them, will have to give them a shot
I love my Flow Nx2's, I've been using mine since 2015. I hate sitting down to strap up and I feel like the best of both types. I can't quite manage to strap up while moving like step in but unstrapping I can.
I started with Burton step ons and ended up switching to straps. The way it supports your foot is not as ideal as straps. The burton boots with the side strap BOA doesn't sit evenly either, at least on my foot. Definitely don't do step ons if you care about freestyle, they are much stiffer and less playful, contrary to the K2's which may be more playful. There just isn't enough variety either for different ride styles.
I got a spinal cord injury years ago and am left with a lot of nerve damage. Step-ins really help me get going much faster. I use clew step ins
I ride flow NXT-AT step ins. This season I switched to boots rated 10 in stiffness which gives much better control with the step ins. I have boots rated 7 but they were way to soft for step in bindings. My boots have the boa system which needs to be tightened a few times during the day. The trick to the old K2 clickers was to spray the bottom of your rear boot and the rear binding with pledge furniture polish. Snow will not stick to it and it lasts for a weeks of riding.
Nidecker Supermatic rider here. Best of both worlds
flow nx2 carbon the best
@@catalinpop558 I came from the flows and definitely prefer coming at the binding with my boot from top vs from the back on the flows.
@@catalinpop558 also not sure if I would switch from flows but my flow broke season before last so I switched to the nideckers happy
I have a pair of flow fuses and I really think rear entry or the supermatics are the way to go. Not only can you get in faster but they also allow you to put your foot in for really short distances. And if you want to you can just use them like normal bindings. Also in some instances it’s much easier to adjust the angle of the high back
I think that the 'use what the pros use' argument is a good one, especially if you're the type of rider who is advanced and wants to continue progressing.
I got lucky and found a used board and strap combo for cheap. The straps were nidecker's supermatic flows which combine the comfort of straps with ease of step-ins which is nice.
I have a couple seasons on the Burton. Get the expensive, stiffer boots. The only issue I have is what you mention re: missing the step in and then things can get interesting. But being over 50, I'll never go back to straps. One thing that I noticed with the K2 is they look more like a bike pedal step in. Toe first. I wish Burtons were toe first also, but the truth is that with stiff boots, it's nothing like clipping into pedals.
I have Burton Step Ons for 2 seasons and I can click in toe first, although it’s easier heel first.
Like everything having to do with Snowboarding Burton does it better. I have Step Ons with Photon Boots. The boots needed a Foam Shin insert because my ankles are so skinny. Once I got that my Heels never lifted at all. That being said buying Step Ons was the best thing I ever did to improve my riding. I live in Fernie which is Big Pow country. I never had any issues with getting the bindings to properly engage. I can’t wait to try them with the Hometown Hero I just bought.
I’m 69 years old.
7:30 EXACTLY!!! i find them much more responsive in carving!
I'm probably the opposite of most commenters here. I went from Flows to traditional bindings and I'm not going back. I have screws in my ankle that the traditional heel strap grind on so I used flows for years, they spread out the tension over a larger surface area vs straps. I went from the regular ones to the ones with the hybrid strap like on the supermatics. The hybrid straps were the best version of the Flow. I switched to Rome Kitanas after figuring out I could add padding to my boot to alleviate the issue with the screws in my ankle. I'm never going back to a step in, on or rear entry style binding. Once you learn to strap in standing up it's really only a couple of seconds difference gong in and zero time savings getting out. The Kitanas offer so much more control and feel it's insane.
I have Burton step ins and I love them. I think because the boots have to be tighter and they are more rigid you have more control especially on your toes.
I used to ride K2 clickers. Love the boots and still Ride K2 today. I moved off Clicker after a trip to Crested Butte that just destroyed the system. Would I ride them again… probably, but I don’t know I’d make them my daily drivers. I love the connection I have with the board via straps. It’s not a trust issue as much as it’s a comfort issue knowing I’m connected.
I’m a huge fan of the K2 Clickers. Been riding them for decades without any issues. I also have a bad back and so the ease of stepping in is great, I rarely have to bend over or sit down and touch the binding. Get a stiffer boot and send it.
5:27 did you not adjust your highback at all to fit the boots?
I've been riding Step Ons for 5 seasons and love them. I've never had a single issue with them. I've ridden them in just about any terrain, including multiple heli trips in steep, gnarly ,and deep terrain. The one thing I don't do is park riding though, so I can't speak to their performance in that regard. I also run the step on splits for touring, and will say they are a MASSIVE step up in the skin track. They have near hardboot levels of stability and grip on sidehills. My set up is the burton Ion SO boots and standard Step Ons as well as the SO Genesis. For me, riding usualy 60+ days per season, mostly freeride, Burton Step Ons have been an absolute game changer. I love them and will never go back to straps. That said, Burton boots have always fit my feet well. For what it's worth, I always recommend to people that if they are going to try Step Ons, think about getting a softer boot than they normally would. All of the response comes from the binding to boot interface, so you don't need a stiff boot to get a responsive ride. If you go with too stiff of a setup, you will feel like you're in hardboots. For most all-mountain/park type riders...look at the swath boots and genesis bindings first, for a freerider look at the Photon and standard SO, and for a full on carving/race rider look at the Ion and Step on X ..just for some suggested boot/binding combos.
My $3,000 story: I learned with traditional bindings. My friend convinced me to buy Burton's stepons first time buying my own gear. I have wide feet. Boot was too tight but I still rode it first winter. I suffered. For next season I got the wide version of the stepon boot. Still suffered. Still too tight. I really enjoyed the bindings but wanted to be comfortable on the mountain. I ordered Clew. With Clew you can have pretty much any boots you want. With Burton you have to get their boot. I bought the widest boot I could find. I am now comfortable. Took me a minute to get used to the Clew, but now I can even step on to them as I slide of the chairlift and I just keep going. So yeah, I spent almost 3K on boots and bindings till I figured what works for me. But now every day on the mountain is so much fun, it's hard to stop riding to take a bathroom break and go home at the end of the day.
However; if my friend never told me about the stepon bindings I would have just used the traditional ones from the start and saved a lot of money. In my own personal opinion, after experiencing 3 different types of bindings: Stepons are the most fun to own. And if you don't have wide feet and are comfortable in Burton's boot, go for it. I love my Clew, but the price difference between traditional bindings and Clew bindings just isn't worth the difference on fun you'll have. You can get good traditional bindings for about $120. If Clew were $250-$275 I would recommend getting those. But at $400+ not worth it. Because they have straps you still have to deal with all the issues they come with plus the stepons mechanism. So you're basically adding things that can go wrong to your bindings. With Burton's stepons there are no straps. So it's worth the money in my opinion.
Some issues I had with my Clew: When it's really cold and some snow accumulates and turn to ice on the heel, sometimes I can't step all the way in. Sometimes I have to pull the release a few times before it releases. Someone recommended me to put my weight on the heel first and than it releases more easy, but it's not always possible. And turning my snowboard to the right angle so I can put my weight on my heel just to release the boot is kind of contradicting the point of having stepons. It is easier to step into the Clew bindings off the lift than it is with the Burton's ones.
I personally don't need to sit on the snow to strap into traditional bindings. So to me Clew saves 10 seconds maybe. Is it worth $400? Not to me.
Side note: I met a short thin girl with size 7 feet that also complained about her boot being too tight, and a salesman at a shop that sells Burton's products and he said it's a known thing that Burton has thin boots and people complain about them being too tight.
which boots fit for you? i'm super wide foot really tired to get boots..
@@dawisdead K2 Maysis Wide Snowboard Boots Mens. I own 2 pairs! I don't use the side BOA. I leave it as loose as possible.
@@Natures_Symmetry oh i put it on my list of suspects. i was between Maysis and Burton Photon. i'm leaning toward Maysis. i will try your boa option if i get that. Thank you!
@@dawisdead My pleasure. I know the struggle. Also, I recommend not getting Burton. Good luck!
I do all mountain carving and buttering mostly, and I switched to the Burton step-ons beginning of last season.
I agree that they are harder to get out of than strap bindings. You have to bend down lower than with straps to pull the lever mechanism, and if the ground is not perfectly flat, pressure on the mechanism can make it either hard to pull the lever, or hard to get your heels out of the lock while pulling the lever (depending if you are on your toe or your heel). This had me questioning at the end of my first season whether there was really any point to the step-ons, but after my second season I definitely am sold on the ease of use in general.
Getting in is easy of course, although I do still occasionally mess it up on the go. After 2 seasons I still feel like I'm getting better at it, so while it is basically easy, there is a learning curve for complete mastery.
There is none of that lateral movement on the Burtons that you were showing with the Clickers. Connection points on the front of the boot are both left and right, so you are locked in both laterally and front-back. Especially with my Photon boots, with the integrated ankle strap, they feel very secure. I would agree with your Japanese friend that they feel really responsive.
After 2 seasons I have no 'trust' issues. I've never experienced or heard of failure on step-ons, and I have had plenty of strap failure previously, so step-ons feel like the more secure and reliable choice at this point over strap bindings.
i'm reading a lot of people who got burton step on that would never go back to normal straps, and i agree, i got all kind of bindings but i just don't see the point to install them back on my boards, it would be a set back on responsiveness
I used strap bindings for a few years and switched to the nidecker system and it works really well, still found some moderate issues trying to get in but even then when I had those issues I’d still take no longer than the regular bindings. Took them on bigger jumps than people would lead you to believe about them not being meant for park style boarding but i can understand the logic behind it regardless. I am curious about getting into hard booting for freestyle and pipe riding. I’m aware of Damian Sanders and his preaching about how it rides but I feel if it was truly good the standard wouldn’t be as overwhelmed with soft boots and soft boot systems. To my understanding the carving is better but what about tricks and comfort in park pipe and resort riding conditions. Most videos I find are primarily for back country split boarding but I simply do have that luxury most times I have the opportunity to ride.
Plus over all they looks so much better and are supposed to last much longer only thing is price but I think it’s fine if I’m replacing soft boots for the same price anyways
I broke my burton boots within 30 days, bindings are still going strong. Excited to see that burton is allowing other companies to use the tech, should help develop a better overall product.
Purchased Burton Step-Ons at the end of the 2020 season, sold them in the 2022 for more than I bought them for.
Words cannot say how much of a HUGE quality of life improvement they are for normal riding. By day 3 on them I was clicking in the moment I stood up from the lift and was shredding it down the runs (before my skier friends had their straps on their wrists). It genuinely does make life easier on the mountain, and made for fantastic high speed riding as they were so locked in and responsive.
However, there was trouble in paradise. I suffered from the usual suspects. The Australian snow had an exceptional habit of getting between the binding baseplate and footbed, which meant that over the day it got harder to step in as my baseplate was higher, meaning I had to really stomp my foot down to engage the second ratchet on the back cleat. When fresh snow fell, I had to clear it by hand on every run when I'd normally be able to kick the snow free as part of stepping on. I also found it ridiculously difficult to step in on steep slopes, requiring me to make a platform to strap in on runs where there was no good flat option that wasn't in the way of disembarking riders. But none of those where the reason I sold them.
One thing I have noticed that very few of the reviews cover, is just how locked in the Burton Step On's are. The three point locking system really changes how everything performs in the system, including both the boot and the binding. The most noticeable difference, is how it gives the soul of your boot the flexibility of concrete. You can really feel how little give the base of your boot has, and for those with flat feet it causes excessive discomfort and overflattening of the arch. Not only that, but you feel every little piece of ice or snow that is packed between your boot and your soul. It was, overall, just an uncomfortable experience. And let to me taking way more breaks on the mountain than I ever had previously.
It was a hard decision selling the Step Ons, but one that with hindsight I would do again in a heartbeat. Comparing Burton Step On's to normal bindings is like comparing Telemarks to regular ski bindings. They may resemble each other, but perform so differently that they aren't really comparable.
I rode with Flows late 90's and moved on to SP Labs later. This season I got my Clew bindings and simply love them and would not trade them for anything
I was an early adopter. I just love the Burton step on. Ultra responsive. Fantastic after sales service.
I made the change in 1999 with the K2 high back and the boots are made by Shimano. Been running them for so long I never even noticed it wasn’t cool. I only ride with skiers and also don’t spend much time in the park. I only had one problem over 20 years. It was at the top of mammoth mountain on a snow day and we did a little hike to get to a shoot and couldn’t give my boot on. After a couple sec stomping I took it off and found a pebble on my boot at the place it hooks in. Ez to just poke it out and down the mt I went. I made the change so long ago I really didn’t remember the last time I used strap bindings. I spent a couple weeks running hard ski boots on a big slalom board with both toes pointing down the. Mountain. Also spent a couple weeks with my board set up backwards it was to Help to be more comfortable running switch. Working at a resort you get speed lots on time on the hill and you do not feel like you have to get on as many runs in because you can go out the next day
Nidecker Supermatic. Rented them 1 day and going to buy them. Currently still considering the Carbon version.
I owned a pair of 2nd generation K2 Clicker (actually they were called Kwicker at that time , it was about 2012 and they had no highback like their 90’s cousins). I can confirm some of the issues you found using them, first off the lateral play, it was a lot and I had the feeling like it was getting worse with time. Stepping in wasn’t the easiest thing if you had packed snow underneath, at that time I used to ride with a group of radical free skiers (yes I did get the k2s also to try and keep up with them), well, each and every time we got a good dump I was always struggling, hitting my left boot against the right one to try and free the metal studs from snow packed underneath, meanwhile the fuxkers were already entering the woods and ripping. One more thing I can say about them is that I ruined the topsheet of my board when skating around with one foot out because the front metal part of the sole was sticking out enough to touch the board. Other minor issues were the fact the you had no chance of releasing a couple of clicks on the “bindings” to have your feet circulation restored while on the lifts (I mean you could undo the boas, but then you had to re tighten them from zero, as they reset when popped open); also the boots were heavy as fuxk and had a sole so rigid that I thought I was walking with my father’s ski boots again while crossing the parking lot 😅
I believe the current Clickers are better, but I think that a step-in wannabe would be better off with Burton’s Step-on
I wish you included Clews in this review. They represent the best of both worlds. You get pretty much the same straps plus the feel and safety as with regular bindings along with the convenience of easily stepping in and out of the bindings. I've had it for one season now, which obviously doesn't answer the question about its longevity, but loving every minute of it so far
But they look absolutely ridiculous.
Rode FLOWs for the last 2 seasons and liked them. Switched to CLEWs this season and I like them too.
For me it's a mobility issue as I have old skate & snowboarding injuries so the step ins really make a huge difference. Happy I've found products that allow me to continue to do what I Love. You just gotta find what works for you.
I have the Burton Step Ons since 2019 and it's all I know. Also, never had any issues with them, I'm starting to hit jumps and park too. I even like wearing them kinda loose.
I rode the original k2 clickers for 20 years and loved them every time. Id still ride them but my boys need replacing and they aren't made anymore. I currently ride the nidecker supermatic and recommend those too
I’ve been riding supermatics for 2 seasons, off piste & park they’re really responsive, slightly softer than my union atlas pro’s so I’ll try the carbon version soon.
20yrs ago i tried step-ons (cant remember brand), last year i tried burton step-on, same problem with both, feels like the boot is the only thing supporting you and it needs to fit so perfect to feel "right"... this year i tried the supermatics, and for me it would work on softer boards since i feel like the highback is too soft... And they are a bit heavy.
Staying on traditional bindings since u can find a better fit/suitible binding for a lower price and only saving about a minute or two per day 🤷♂️
I see some people in the mid-west using step-on bindings, but over all most still use traditional bindings. Here in Vermont I am sticking to my Nitro Team and Team Pro bindings with my Beast boards. I do mostly park, and feel way more secure in them. I have tried step-on bindings from Burton, and definitely was not for me.
I've got some Clew binding on pre-order for next season. As I do most of my boarding at indoor centres in the UK, quick entry will make a big difference to me.
I enjoy the entire process of being on the mountain to be real with you. Don't get me wrong, click-ins are still pretty dope looking.
Never understood why they weren't more widespread, but the Flow-like bindings offer the best of both world : Fast, standing-up, while-already-riding get in ; and strap support and adjustable stiffness. (seems like the new supermatics are good in this area too)
i switched to the burton step ons last year after i was fed up with my binding straps snapping once a week... haven't had a single problem OTHER than it feels like i gotta tighten my boots every once in a while, but i think ima make a strap like mechanism to go around my boot itself, might work dont you think?
Riding off & on for 15 years. Bought Burton steps in January after a strap broke on my Salamons. I'm 47 now and admit I love the lazy factor. Just get a good sized quality stomp pad with a boot scraper......you're gonna need it for pow days
there are Clew Step-in Hybrids which are the best of both worlds but i dont have them yet since im still new and suing straps but soon im gonna get clew bindings. Overall it all comes down to just having fun and i love snowboarding even though im brand new.
The only thing I hate with step in bindings is the "Need" to buy special boots for them, and the insane amount of movement and looseness between you in the board. I have ridden the other step in bindings that still have straps. Nidecker Supermatics are expensive and were great but started to break halfway through a single season, and too heavy and not flexible enough to hit park with. I found out about Flow bindings and traded the broken supermatic's for a pair of Flow bindings. The Flow and K2 Cinch are certainly a better option and more responsive bc they still have straps, and no weird mechanical stuff that result in you having to try and ask ski patrol for a screwdriver to fix your board at the top of the mountain (like i did with the Nidecker). they just work using a cable and a little lever that adds tension to keep the hiback upright. Way safer, and if the step in stuff doesnt wanna work for some reason you still have straps.
I bought Supermatics and used them for an entire season. I would never go back to a traditional binding. No matter how fast you can strap in, Supermatics are faster, they are comfortable, and have great response. I love them, my GF has Burton Step ons and my daughter straps in. We hate waiting on my daughter to strap in, haha. She will soon have Supermatics too, as she complains that we get in so much faster. My GF's Burton Boa Boot loosens up after a few runs, as I only adjust my gear at the beginning of the day. The main reason i went to Supermatics over Burtons was my Salomon boots are super comfy and I did not want to buy new into Burton boots and step ons and get an uncomfortable boot plus spend even more $$$. I have not had any issues with the Supermatics, it took me about 3 runs to get used to getting in and out of them easily.
I like the support of normal bindings and have problem with tight boots for nervs and blood circulation! i Will say that burton Wide boots are a game changer. take the extra 5 sec to hang with the friends! its a lift qwue anyway!
Been using Flow since 2002 before they had ratcheting straps and just ordered the Flow Fuse yesterday. Great bindings. I looked at the supermatics too but couldn't justify paying like 3x.
Used Burton step ons for 4 seasons now. I wouldnt even look at other step in systems (exept supermatics) as they just look still to be stuck in the 1990s.( ive ridden since 92 and had lowbacks, baseless etc. strap binding back then and they were as bad bakc then.) Note aswell where you ride, my avg. hill here is 400m/1300ft, so it takes about 1 minute to blast down to elevator, which takes 3minutes back up, so the step ins are more than great system here. if i would live near a higher hill or mountain i probably would use strap bindings as there would be less strapping in and out. Yes for step ins.
we ride the first series of burton step ons still after i don't know how many years now. we ride them on everything. my wife has the simpler ones but burton makes ones that have a dual boa for big stuff and they have more support across the instep with a second boa. have taken them park, pipe, all mountain, powder, andcannot complain. i have seen beginners who don't know how they work not lock in properly and lose their board on the lift -both burton and clew -so know your gear and check before you ride that you are seated into the mechanism properly. All that said i mainly ride resrots and i'm from Ontario canada where the lines are long and the lifts are short but they were great at tremblant and killington too. ill be honest, the k2 ones you rode look terrible, but its their first year. give them time to fine tune with rider feedback.
So 2 of my buddies have these and the main problem is the snow gets packed in the boot lock in area and they constantly have to scrape out the hard pack snow in that boot lock in section. It’s no problem on slushy days and icy days. Pow days they are extra slow with the constant scraping. They have had them for 3 season and switched back to strap bindings
I just wanted to try out Flow bindings and I must say that they will probaly be my main choice for my other setup aswell. Like, lets be honest, the time diffrence doesnt really is that big if youre a seasoned boarder but they arent just quicker, they feel amazing aswell. I got Flow Fuse Carbon and I love them in the park, cant wait to try them out on my freecarver aswell...! Traditional bindings are fine and super reliable but these flows, they got me convinced for the future!
I personally ride the clickers since the day they premiered I ride them today still with no backs to them send them on everything I do haven't let me down yet love em I generally do freeride but hit the big jumps on boring days ..
Using flow 2 lights and I'm happy with them, save me a lot of time and effort, sometimes I'm quicker to strap in than my ski friends are to sort out their skis and poles 😅
I'm 43 and and I chose clew step in to help me. I don't get tired bending over especially when I'm up down up down on park or at the indie slope. I'm not hard core so it worked for me it's horses for courses as they say