The coolest part about these videos is how he does it in basically one cut. I think its underappreciated how hard it is to do a full dialogue like that without any jump cuts.
can we also talk about the fact that most RUclipsrs read scripts while they do videos? he's literally snowboarding while presenting! without a script!! im mind blown.
What impressed me is how he undone the rear binding, temoved his foot, rode the board one strapped, and reinserted the boot in the binding and locked in. That is skill.
Great review Malcom.. Im 62 and the aches of bending down starting to appear..old man time and all.. so these are perfect.. a little expensive but if extends my life on the snow gotta be worth it.. ❤
This is a game changer. I'm mid 40s and have just done snowboard lessons. I can ski, and one thing I noticed is that boarding is so much more hard work. All the sitting, kneeling, rolling etc just before you get going was physically tiring. I know you say these are not just for beginners but they are absolutely gonna benefit beginners and older snowboarders in a massive way. Great video.
2 года назад
Well, you don't have to sit to strap in. Actually, I stopped doing it after my first season or so. So about 20 years ago :) . A friend of mine started to tease me to stop it. And now I can't even stand up from sitting (too stiff hips) anyway, so I'd have to roll. Except on super steep black slopes :) . But doing it standing up is pretty easy. Most lifts will have some plane/horizontal surfaces at the exit. And if you're not a complete beginner (I mean not your first few days/first week) then you can do it even if it has a slight slope. So basically anywhere where you'd want to strap in. Not to say I'm not eyeing this binding ;) .
I took up boarding at 54 with a teen son and my wife did as well in her 40s. Hardest physical thing I ever took on. But I had a lot of days to ride and in 4 years was doing CPG helis in AK. I lived there. ruclips.net/video/oHlANCZ1uQo/видео.html It will harden you up physically in a way few sports can do and you will NEVER regret that because you will carry it forward for many years. I had fractures requiring surgery but still never quit. If I were still in AK I would be riding still, I remain fit enough. Now I sail a 44ft sailboat out of FL and the strength I gained from years of snowboarding is allowing that kind of very physically demanding lifestyle activity in my 70's. DO NOT QUIT! The moment you sit down you start to die. I rode with Flow bindings for many years, similar drop heel entry. They save a TON of energy and also have the traditional top strap use option.
Im turning 30 this year, first time ever boarding was last winter. I think im gonna get these! I hated coming in and out of my bindings, it was so much work and tiring
personally, I have not tried the Nideckers, but I used to have the similar K2 setup (K2 cinch), I liked it, but it just doesnt hold a candle to Burton's Stepon system now Just my opinion. I had all the challenges you had, and Stepons just seem like a better mechanical solution
it's nice to see someone thoroughly use a product before reviewing them, not just a day or a weekend. my only concern is that the high back doesn't fold down forward like traditional binding, something i do when getting on lift. sometimes the seat are too low and crush down on the high back if they are up right. but if the high back is laid back, then they can trip you when you're skating around. that happens when i used the Flow binding.
Yes I was hoping he would cover what it's like getting on and off the lift. Skating doesnt seem to be a problem just lift the highback up but dont lock it in.
Last week I saw a guy on a slope in poland with these bindings, he said they're fantastic, but they will be on sale in the next season. For me as a snowboarder, the most annoing thing is to find a place to strap a boot, standing or sitting on a butt, especially when my friends, are mostly skiiers. It won't happen again. I was sceptical about durabitility, but yours review made me instabuy when they're arrive to the stores. Greetings
I take the final decision after watching this video. I do like how you took the time to show how you put them on and off on a real basis and not in a prepared scenario. The sequence of putting in while riding... that's top, man. Thanks. Really, thanks.
Hi guys, appreciate you looking at the comments! One question with regards to size limitations: I saw on a Web page that offers preorders that the L binding will have a US size 11 limit. Will there be an XL version of the binding? I'm on tactical adv size 11.5 boots and would love to give these a try...
Great review, this is litterly everything i was searching for. These bindings make snowboarden so much easier, we all know the struggle when you're on the road with your friends on skis.
Thanks, I'll be doing a follow up review on them soon, I've been riding them more on the glacier this summer. Basically everything that I said in this video still stands but I'll be addressing some of the other questions I got down in the comments!
Finally got a pair at my pro shop discount preseason sale. Been into step in bindings since I started a couple of years ago. Your channel has not only helped me be a better rider but also helped me find gear that will help the ride as well. Can’t wait for this season and the videos you’d bring!
Such a shame you didn't review the clew binding. I would have loved to watch a video in which you gave your thoughts compared to these having ridden both for a few weeks.
would u really like a review from such a biased person. The only fact without testing them is the highback is looking stupid.... this is what had been said when the frist snowboarder was seen on the mountain.
@@mo8b8 I would. I always find Malcolm to be eloquent and balanced in his opinion. As an experienced mountain professional I think he's perfectly placed to give an informed opinion. Given that the company offered to send him the product and he rejected the approach suggests negative bias if anything. That's exactly the type of person I would like to see a review from.
This is genuinely the best review video i have watched about ANY product, answered all my questions and more in a very natural way like it was just a friend introducing them to me instead of the superficial stuff you often get on YT reviews.
Im totally sold on the Supermatics, in fact I've preordered them through my local pro shop but I'm gonna come to Clews defense here. I have zero problem strapping in and out going into the lodge or onto a gondola. most riders are clearly okay with that too as is evidenced by the fact that the market is dominated by strap in systems. The Clews function exactly like a normal strap system. Exactly. Except they have the added benefit of quick, no -sit entry as you get off the lift. Maybe it looks a little weird to the few people who actually notice but the design is simple, with very few added moving parts, and offers a best of both worlds setup that, in my opinion, is 2nd only to the Supermatics. That said, I think it's a distant 2nd. These Nideckers are amazing!!!
That was the most concise and honest review I've ever seen on YT of any product ever. Genuinely I was torn between these and the Burtons. I've just ordered the Nideckers.
Awesome review, Malcolm! I love that you're one of the only people who do long-term reviews of gear that you've been riding for a while. I just upgraded my bindings, so I don't think I'll be jumping into gen. 1 of the Supermatics, but with this review, I'm definitely convinced that they're something I could use, so probably in a couple of years, when an improved second gen. of these comes out and I want to upgrade again, I'll finally jump on the step-in bandwagon!
Great review, Malcolm. These are the bindings I am looking for. Every one first talks about the use case of quickly getting into the bindings, but for me that was the least important use case. As I got older and fatter, it became almost impossible to sit down and reach my feet to strap in. Add to that the issue of dragging the board on one foot to the lift which always exhausted me, and I had nearly given up snowboarding...until I found the Flow bindings ,which do have some issues. These Nideckers solve both of my major issues - I can step in easily when I need to ride and very importantly I can step out easily and carry the board to the lift line instead of dragging it with my diminished muscles. I will be buying these the moment they show up in the market.
Dude your videos are brilliant! Makes me wish I did that season in Austria when I was offered it years ago after college. I binged on your videos before I went boarding in early March and your lessons really helped. Thanks mate your effort is much appreciated 👊
Another fantastic deep dive video Malcolm! Much appreciated... been riding Flows for 15+ years while following the evolution of quick entry approaches (i.e. Burton, Flow, K2, Clew) and given that every system has their design pro's/cons, the Supermatic design comes closest to addressing the ideal vision of "quick entry" with the fewest compromises. Anxiously awaiting for Supermatic version 2.0 so that I can retire my current Flows. Would love to see a long term follow up video next season on your experience with these bindings...I trust Nidecker R&D would welcome your feedback as well. Keep up the excellent content!
Thanks, yeah I'm going to keep riding them and I'll be using them over the summer on the glacier too, so will post another video in the future, or if they break beforehand!
This is a great review and I've ridden them for couple of weeks but I suggest anyone using them checks the roller is secured before every run as it fell out on coming off one lift on my 3rd holiday using them in Tignes in December 23 which was lucky in a way as I wasn't riding a black run when it happened and i only had to get a couple of lifts back down.. I checked in a couple of shops in Val D'Isere and Tignes and they were both very supportive of them saying they hadn't seen such any issues before with these, Just back from another week in Austria and no issues this time. BUT TAKE CARE AND ALWAYS CHECK YOUR BINDINGS FOR TIGHTNESS OF ANY PARTS YGAT5 COULD BECOME LOOSE. Have a great ride.....
For the last 3 years I’ve been riding Clew bindings. They were and are still awesome. Less moving parts comparing to Nedecker. But I am sure these are also great.
This is a great review! I was never a fan of traditional bindings. I got a pair of flow bindings last year after a friend introduced me to them. Changed my life, however the reaching behind the back to "unlock" them required some flexibility. As a middle aged, chunky guy. Anything that makes the stepping in easier, I'm all for. I will be waiting for these to come on the market. Thanks again for the long term review. As you pointed out, short term reviews are always fantastic. But 5-6 hours a day for 6 weeks is more than probably most of us "weekend warriors" will ever do. The longevity of the equipment is a great thing.
Really rare that I comment... but your review is excellent! I rode the Vans/Switch Step in for years; buying boots on eBay because they stop manufacturing them to soon... Then, I change to Flow rear entry; which was the best compromise. Two months ago, or so, I saw a guy with a Supermatic set-up. Because is friend saw I was on Flow set-up, he ask the guy to show me how quick were the Supermatic...WoW! I think my mind is made now... Hopefully they will be available in Canada!
Sad that Switch got tanked. Almost everyone I talked to that had them,. loved them. I was in that same boat until a few weeks ago when my last pair of boots separated. I am going to have to get something else for next year. these look promising, but will they be able to compete with the connectedness of the switch is my question.
Invested in Burton step ons but by the time I'm through with that setup, this will be my next ones. If there are any issues or gremlins, I'm sure we'll know about it by then or it'll be fixed.
Thanks for the review! These bindings definitely offer so much for so little (if any downside). As an owner of the 2nd generation of the Burton Step-On bindings, here's a couple differentiators I could think of: 1) Since the Burtons don't have any straps whatsoever, the high-back can completely fold in flush with the board for easier storage especially in a boarding bag. This can be even more handy when you're checking your gear on a plane. 2) There's less overall weight for specifically the Burton Step-Ons compared to these Supermatics since there aren't any straps. The difference between 'normal' bindings and the Supermatics would be much less since they both use straps. 3) This is more of a suggested correction: conventional bindings DO come with leashes and it's strongly encouraged, if not mandatory, at a few of my local ski resorts to wear the leash just in case there are any binding malfunctions for that front foot. I think it speaks more to possible human error than the reliability of the bindings themselves. The fact that the Supermatics don't come with a leash doesn't really mean anything to me in this context. I've worn my Burtons without the leash too in those conditions where I find myself needing both feet free. Anyway, thanks again for the detailed video, I just wanted to put in my two cents!
Speaking physics, Burton step ons transmit all the force through the little claws in the front and the one in the back. This is a lot of stress on three points. Compare to to regular bindings (or the step ins) that has a whole strap around the front of your foot and your angle. Burton step-ons therefore have a lot of pressure particularly in the front claws, which MANY snowboarders complain about since that pressure turns into pain. That's an inherent flaw of the Burton step ons and trumps any other technicality (weight, etc). I am surprised you did not find the Burton painful. These step-ins (regardless of weight) seem much better in distributing pressure between foot and straps and therefore, no pain.
The bindings may weigh less but Burton puts more structure in its step on boots. It has to. I'm willing to bet that the lightest combination of Burton step on boots and bindings weighs the same or more than a light weight boot with the supermatics.
The clew bindings are great. If your getting on the gondola, then just unstrap as normal binding and you won’t have the high backs on your feet. Problem solved. Great review by the way.
@@malcolmmoore I have the CLEW's as well and they work perfect. Just drop your pants over your highbacks. You can operate the lever whilst being under your pants. With the Burton's you need to tuck up your pants, otherwise they will interfere with the locking mechanism.
i am defo buying these, at the moment i ride with sp step ins which i love but i still have to bend down when getting in and out, at 62yrs old anything that stops me bending down so much is a bonus, great review by the way.
Best review I’ve seen on these or in general. So thorough. Looking forward to more of these on boards etc. Not enough of these types! Watched the full Vid and picking these up!
I was considering the CLEW bindings and this looks better in some ways. Great to see step on technology developing. But it needs everyone to buy in else you still have to wait for friends to strap in at the top, or catch up after the flats at the bottom
I just got the CLEW bindings and i’ve been riding them for a week non-stop and they are amazing. I have problems with my lower back and bending all the time to strap in is a no no for me.
I got the Clew on my Never Summer. There are rooms for improvements but it’s still amazing. You won’t have the high back attached on your boots all the time. It’s only when you are on the lifts 😏
I got CLEW last year, and save a ton of time right off the lift. I pretty much get in them at the same angle as these, click it, do a little hop, and I'm off. It's funny to be in so quickly while others are sitting down and strapping in. It also helps on the flat cat tracks when you can just pop out, skate, pop in.
i have been on burton step ons for the last 3 seasons and bought this after watching your review just done 8 days in them and its great to be back in light soft boots as my burtons were a little stiff and heavy also found them easer to get in and out of keep up the good work 💪👏👏
Can’t wait to get one of these great bindings. Your remarks on the Flows are spot on. And, man, your ride is the best I’ve seen on YT and what I dream being able doing one day! Keep up that great work.
I am a burton step on fan and have 4 pairs of step on boots and bindings. But I would totally get this once it comes out. I just hate bending down and this eliminates 1 more step when getting off the board.
Got my Purple Jokers today. Got them mostly setup off the board as I have a Dancehaul coming shortly to pair them with. These things are smooth, even dry on a carpet.
Interesting mention about the burtons at the end regarding the leash. I was in France last season and they were stopping people getting on lifts with the step on without a leash as some people lost their boards off while on the chairs. Great review by the way, I think I'm sold on them as after some new bindings.
the traditional bindings are the not-so-cool part of snowboarding, quite a hassle. planning to have my own gear, finally, and was leaning towards Burton's. you've just changed my mind! great and thorough review, addressing all the questions most of us had in mind. thanks!
Great review - was seriously looking at the Clew ( I do love step-in tech and still ride today with a pair of 4 year old Cinch CTS). On an unrelated note - I’m a recent subscriber to the channel and am currently in La Plagne putting your guidance into practice - have to say my progression has been amazing - many thanks for the vids fella!
Love all your videos you explain everything in such simple and clear terms. Love the look of these bindings. I bought the Burton SO version 2 last year, wish I’d known about these
Besides from the great review this is such a cool video xD coming out of the lift, just explaining everything going down the mountain while also having good sound quality. Basically doing a one-take for the first 4 minutes ... i wonder if this worked out the first time or if you had to do it more than once xD
Great review. No-one uses the leash on Step Ons. Straps will break before you come out of a Step On. I'm steering my great nephew toward the Nidecker Supermatic and the Burton Step Ons.
Hey brother Malcolm! Excellent review. I would definitely give these a look when I replace my Burton Cartel bindings. I used to have Flows back in the day, but as you mentioned, when the footbed or the bottom of your boot gott packed w/ snow, they were very difficult to close. A couple of questions: Do you know if these would work with Burton's Channel System? And, does the highback fold all the way forward over the binding? The chair can break the rear highback if there's not enough room between the chair & the snow for it to clear when you're getting on. It's happened to me more than once when I've forgotten to fold my highback and it crushes your day!
As for the Burton StepOn leash they put it there in case you or someone else accidentally clips the release lever while you are on a lift. I believe same could happen with Nidecker Suprematic once the release lever is accidentally released while on a lift it will fall freely.
@@malcolmmoore The nideckers look like they need the leash more than the burtons do, as the nideckers lever is designed to be easily operated by your rear foot compared to the burtons where you have to lift the lever with your hand and would be difficult to operate with your foot. So an accidental release of the lever by your foot while on the lift looks a lot more likely to occur on the nideckers.
Thanks for the extremely thorough review. I'm going to also check out your follow up, since I'm in the market for new bindings and want to be sure. But because you rode them for so long and so heavily before this first one and then walked me through all my possible concerns I'm pretty satisfied with the information here
have had the K2 clickers for about 20 years. (Various updated bindings, newer boa boots) They are great for me except in powder or when the metal on the boots ice up. When I carry my Clicker board I love how flat the board is without bindings (I don't use heel backs on K2 Clickers). Then I got Flows a few years ago for my Jones Hovercraft but they were somehow worse, maybe my feet are too, big but half the time I ended up strapping in since my boot wouldn't slide in enough for me to lift the back. I got Clew's this year because I didn't have the money to get both Burton boots and bindings like my friends. After a couple trips so far the Clews seem to be really good in different snow conditions. Also I'm a grown ass man so I don't care what people think, I'll wear the Clew binding backs into the lodge at lunch. I'll chime in again next year as I see how they wear.
Thanks for the review and these will for sure be on my need to buy list. Last season (first ever down the slopes) I ran on rental boards and bindings but hated em. So I purchased my own setup for the season and did plenty of research. Ended up with a complete nidecker setup. Ranger boots, escape 156 board and flow bindings. As a new snowboarder this let me progress quickly and I went from barely getting down on greens to surfing down reds (no blacks yet and had a few lessons this season). So going back to traditional bindings is a no for me as the flow bindings let me get crusing quickly after leaving the lift. Also have to say thanks for all your instruction videos they have helped an old fart like me (turning 49 in a couple of weeks) a lot!
Great review I’ve just bought some after having some K2 step in which fell apart after 2 seasons so I am looking forward to using these next week in Méribel.
Thanks for the review! No issues with straps except at the local area. Limited vertical. The ~6 minute up and ~3 minute down. Local board set up with Flow NX2-TM. Too lazy to deal with straps. Plus more laps/hr. All other systems were out for the reasons you noted. Mtn board trad bindings. Good to hear these bindings have the feel and performance of trad strap bindings. Happy to hear they seem durable. Thanks for the close up of the locking ratchet and heel hammock system.
My Burton Step Ons in the US, don’t have the mention leash. It took me a season to get used to them, but they work well for me. I was going to upgrade to the version 2.0, but I might try these.
they look wicked, what i really want to see now is how long they last under usual wear and tear... With so many new moving components (the "hammock" in particular) I would imagine these will start wearing our pretty quickly.. or even break if dropped/stepped on incorrectly... they looked weak. the locking mechanism is surely another weak point too... if ice builds up in the lock - say if you left your board outside while grabbing a beer/resting... how do you unice the lock/does it even matter?
Another great review MM. This sort of tech will make it easier for all of us. Hopefully they offer a stiffer model in the future. Looks impressive. Thanks for posting.
Great review and very honest review too. I've never had a problem with traditional bindings but after watching this I'm definitely going to look into these. I have a Nidecker Area 153 which I love and such a good brand that they have to be good. Thanks again for yet another informative video
You might be surprised, I have ridden Flows for 15 years and recently got these. Not sure if I will go back, pretty happy after 2 weeks in Japan on them. Still love my trusty NX2’s though!
i got the burton step on's the year they came out and I love them! that being said these look super cool! i will def consider when i next upgrade. i love that you can wear any boot. oh and you right about the leash - its not a big deal but it is slightly annoying. that being said i have never ever felt like i would lose the board on a lift. its just additional safety - which no one can hate on.
Without MM's reviews on these binding I dont think I could have ordered a pair on line without testing them first. Every other review seems to have been made by very advanced hard charging riders that have unboxed them, fixed them to a board. cranked down all 3 straps, spent a day or 2 on them and then given negative feedback because they didnt understand that the 3rd strap is meant to be loose. Ive had mine a couple of weeks now and so far have only spent 6 hours of indoor slope time on them, but because it is indoor time that means ive been stepping in and out every 4 or 5 mins for 6 hours which I think is a reasonable test of the step in function. Absolute delight to use and when riding they feel at least as good as the Now bindings they replaced. Roll on March 2024. Incidentally, I think the 23/24 versions have put on weight. My XL supermatics are 1358g and my Now bindings 1013g which is 345g per binding, that said they still dont feel heavy underfoot.
Great review, saw these yesterday at a dry slope near Christchurch. Got them put aside there and then. After last few years of trying out each flow innovation and usually reverting to my trusty ride strap in bindings from back in the day, these bindings are perfect for me, I’m now just into my fifties and ride with friends that ski, so don’t want them to be waiting for me strapping in. Anyhoo - after this review, phoned up and paid for the bindings. Love your work 😃
Nice one just got my supermatics delivered and set up on the strength of your great video..trip booked for Xmas 22 can't wait to use them..nice one Mr Moore
A mix of rear entry and step in, that you can also use as a regular straps binding if you want, and with any boot you want. Clearly superior to the step on. Case closed.
Hi Malcolm, I notice you were riding an Amplid Dada snowboard and I saw your video where you talk about how you chose it. In your quest trying out different boards did you happen to try the Amplid Spray tray? I was considering getting that board and putting on the supermatics. The Spray tray has a waist of 25.4 which should work out ok for my size 8.5 us boots. However... the supermatics add 3cm to the total length. This works out fine with your Dada but do you think I would be able to use the supermatics on the Spray tray. Just for reference my angles are 36/27. Thanks!
They are amazing!! I'm sold. I had burton step ins from the early 00s and I swore by them the only thing that let them down was their weight but the niedeckers look absolutely fantastic!
I guess one issue is whether if they do break, can you easily get spare parts? That’s where Burton has a huge advantage, pretty much wherever you are there will be a shop with Burton components. However, if these don’t break, they do look pretty interesting
Flow/Nidecker is pretty easy to deal with for parts directly via their website. But they've had some shortages this past year due to reduced manufacturing runs (Covid) and some items were held back for next year's parts bins, at least on the Flow side. Yeah, but parts at a local shop? Not likely. 😉
I’ve had the flow and now use the Burton Step ons. These look really innovative. I worry about these getting crushed by a chair lift as it seems the high back doesn’t nest in to clear the chair. Also, in powder I always like the flows that you could always engage regardless of how much powder was in the binding. The step ons are a bit more of a struggle. What have you encountered with powder in the binding area as you are trying to get them to lock on?
Nevermind, Malcom responded to another comment with the same question below: "Yeah you can fold the highback forward. With the straps done up it goes to about 30° but if any pressure is put on them they will just squash further into the straps. I haven't found any chairlift low enough that the following was required - but for when packing them in a bag it is helpful - you can always just undo the straps and fully push the highback down as with a normal binding 👍"
I’ve ridden Burton StepOns since they first came out. If skating isn’t required at the top, I usually have the back foot already locked in on the chair, so I can slide off & keep going just like a skier. Also, you don’t need to reach down and touch anything before stepping in; you just step in, click, and away your go. Yes I do use a leash, because you never know where a skier will put their stupid pole. One other big safety related reason I prefer Burton, is that the release lever is pull up, not push down. This allows me to modify the lever by attaching a line (twisting hockey stick tape) from the lever to the highback making it much easier and less of a reach by about 6 inches. Inches that can save your life if you’re stuck in a bad situation in the trees and you have to release your foot in order to extricate yourself from that bad situation. DC makes compatible boots, and other companies will soon be licensed and producing compatible boots as well. Next year will be the 7th generation of Burton StepOns, and they keep getting improved every year.
@@PrepSail Im interested in how you connect the lever to the highback? do you have a pic of that. I would like to try something like that on my step ons.
@@oevadsun It’s just hockey stick tape wrapped around the lever, then twisted into cordage, then wrapped into the hole in the high back. It makes a nice convenient cord you just pull on & you’re out. And it doesn’t void the warranty, just peel it off….
Hi Malcolm, thanks for testing, I was curious about this system. Nevertheless I cannot agree with what you say about Burton Step-On. Having them 2 years now, I can really coming out from chairlift without stopping or not even looking at my bindings. I just "throw" my foot against the spoiler, 2 clicks out of 4 (2 clicks on the front, 2 clicks for the 2 levels on the spoiler) and I can go. The step-on does not require to go completely "flat"on the board, but just follow the spoiler inclination. I find Supermatic more complex, especially for beginners/false intermediates, because it required entering with an angle. You can manage very well standing at one foot and even snowboarding at one foot, like I do,.....but have a look at how many snowboarder can conduct their boards at one feet only....20%? The remaining would really struggle staying at one foot and inserting the other feet at that angle. Sure the investment for Step-on+Boots is high and the feeling cannot be the same, but since I like it with Ion boots and do not miss those Nidecker. I wanted just to say mine, thanks! ;)
Thanks for the review but Burton got it right. I'll never give up my Step-Ons. Had them since first generation. They still work great, simple in and out and no pressure on the top of my foot.
Really enjoyed this video and indeed all of them. some very helpful tips particularly for carving as I think about next season. I have read through the comments and I saw a few people had asked whether they can be used on Burton and could not see an answer. I have looked on Nidecker and a couple of other places and couldn't see a definite confirmation. I wondered if you knew or indeed if anyone else did?
My 2024 Supermatics arrived a couple of days ago (2 months earlier than promised). They've passed the step-in and out test on the living-room floor so next up will be a trip to some indoor snow in a few weeks.
Excellent review! thank you! I got them in size L with the Nidecker KITA boots in US11 and unfortunately I do struggle with the size. It seems that my boots just don't fit all and would rather need size XL. The toe strap just moves upside because the boot is too long to the front of the binding. Otherwise they are great bindings.
Really good review video. I pulled the trigger on the step on bindings and don't regret it but it's a little bit spicy having to buy bindings and boots all at the same time.
Thank you for the super detailed breakdown of the bindings. These definitely look like the future, can't wait until Nidecker manufactures ones with a stiffer flex. For now I am somewhat stuck with my Burton Ion SO boots and StepOn X bindings for the sake of stiffness. The only major pain point is the registration used for guiding the back cleat into the binding, I tend to miss 1 out of every 10 times. As far as the leash goes, I don't bother with it and just keep in my pocket. Although I think Burton could have chosen a better clip for the leash, it is hard to operate with gloves on.
I had the Flow rear entry bindings before and they were trash. They ripped the heel off my boot from trying to get out of them. Maybe because I have bigger feet? Switched to Burton step ons and liking them so far
Had that happen on both my kids boots with their flow bindings, never happended on any of mine through the years. I believe its up to quality and design of the boots. Above beginner models flow bindings of recent years are a farcry from yesteryears flow bindings.
Have been riding the original Flow bindings since the very beginning. Also tried straps, Switch and the first Burton step-ins. Back entry bindings of any brand are head and shoulders above them all for comfort, choice of boots and ease of use.
If you haven't, try the CLEW Binding. I am absolutely in love with this binding and do not want to go back to my Burton Mala Vita although it had way more features like canted footbed and highback rotation etc.
when you ride the gondola , you can still take off the CLEW as a regular binding witout the highback on your boot.So i think what it really comes down to is which of these is more convenient and easier to step in.
amazing review Malcolm - thanks. I'm a convert to Burton Step On, but the option to go back to swapping boards with mates on lazy runs at the end of the day has been sorely missed. Plus I'd get to use my Adidas Boots again... which were amazingly comfortable.
Well, I've pre-ordered a set and gone from cynic (flow 2.ohhh) to 'this guy seems legit' and I trust his videos. I'm optimistic they'll be as simple to use as my Step-Ons, but I'm also super keen to get back to a canted footbed, which I do think takes some of the ankle and knee aches out of the game.
Awesome video! Only thing I worry about it the weight/flex. From what I’ve seen, they’re not ideal for freestyle. Would you agree? Edit: Nevermind, saw your other video! That does it, I’ll be looking for a pair soon lol
Hi Malcolm, This is the review I've been waiting for! From someone I know I can trust. Here are a couple of things I've been wondering about from the first day I saw these (and also from my experience with Flow. I ride the NX2-CX which I think is the stiffest one they have) 1. Mechanism durability - You were eluding to it in the beginning of the video but you didn't actually say, does the locking mechanism show any wear or looseness over time? 2. Strap locks - An issue I've had with my Flows was that the locking on the strap ratchets(that little button) become loose over time and after a full season they basically stopped locking... which became super annoying since every nudge when your foot is out makes them tighten and then you get off the lift and your foot doesn't go in without a re-adjust. Did you notice anything like that? 3. Boot wear - did you notice any wear on your boots from the repeated in and out? 4. Stiffness - I love my boots and bindings stiff and was wondering about your thoughts. You did mention the Supermatics are middle of the road but paired with stiff boot would you say it's gonna be noticeable? if so, might be better to wait for that stiffer Supermatic variant to come out before pulling the trigger? Been following you for a long time and love your videos mate. Keep up the good work!
Thanks! 1. So far I haven't noticed any issues with durability but I would expect something to go at some point, however everything looks and feels as it was put of the box right now, so I will see when that happens if it does! 2. The locking strap doesn't seem to move, and definitely not tighten, to be honest I didn't even realise about it when I started using them, I never read the manual and I wasn't locking them as I just thought they worked like a normal binding strap. During that time they still stayed in place. I kind of thought it was there as a second failsafe basically. But either way it hasn't unintentionally loosened or tightened off. 3. I haven't noticed any boot wear but I guess the tread on the base might start to go a little faster than normal as you slide in and out, but there's not much friction on the skid plate so I can't see it happening fast. 4. Yeah they're not a very stiff binding, the baseplate is very solid but the straps and highbacks are softer. That's kind of what I like but if you're used to something stiffer they might not be the best for you!
@@malcolmmoore Appreciate the speedy reply, seems like a really solid package then ! I'll wait the stiffer ones I think... Also, hope you could do a follow up after a longer period of riding them to see if something finally gives or if any of the issues I mentioned come about. Keep shredding! And please keep that sweet content coming :)
It is pretty negligible when you are riding, especially if you are a bigger guy. I personally didn’t notice, even though they are a little heavier than my Flow NX2’s
Have you been to chairlifts that are pretty close to the ground where traditional bindings would need to be folded down in order for it to not have the highback be crushed? Wonder if these would get crushed since it can't be folded all the way down
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Watch my follow up review here: ruclips.net/video/RrBhAWoURiU/видео.html
So for those of us who can't teleport to the top of the mountain or to wherever we are riding how do they fold flat for chairs lifts and luggage?
@@mmtot ruclips.net/video/RrBhAWoURiU/видео.html
Follow up review here goes into that 👍
The coolest part about these videos is how he does it in basically one cut. I think its underappreciated how hard it is to do a full dialogue like that without any jump cuts.
Thanks man 🙌
can we also talk about the fact that most RUclipsrs read scripts while they do videos? he's literally snowboarding while presenting! without a script!! im mind blown.
Not only that - but while riding, throwing 180s, butters, avoiding kooks. First part had me mad impressed
What impressed me is how he undone the rear binding, temoved his foot, rode the board one strapped, and reinserted the boot in the binding and locked in. That is skill.
Did you know, he's got a script printed in size 2pt font inside his googles.
Great review Malcom.. Im 62 and the aches of bending down starting to appear..old man time and all.. so these are perfect.. a little expensive but if extends my life on the snow gotta be worth it.. ❤
This is a game changer. I'm mid 40s and have just done snowboard lessons. I can ski, and one thing I noticed is that boarding is so much more hard work. All the sitting, kneeling, rolling etc just before you get going was physically tiring. I know you say these are not just for beginners but they are absolutely gonna benefit beginners and older snowboarders in a massive way. Great video.
Well, you don't have to sit to strap in. Actually, I stopped doing it after my first season or so. So about 20 years ago :) . A friend of mine started to tease me to stop it. And now I can't even stand up from sitting (too stiff hips) anyway, so I'd have to roll. Except on super steep black slopes :) . But doing it standing up is pretty easy. Most lifts will have some plane/horizontal surfaces at the exit. And if you're not a complete beginner (I mean not your first few days/first week) then you can do it even if it has a slight slope. So basically anywhere where you'd want to strap in.
Not to say I'm not eyeing this binding ;) .
I took up boarding at 54 with a teen son and my wife did as well in her 40s. Hardest physical thing I ever took on. But I had a lot of days to ride and in 4 years was doing CPG helis in AK. I lived there. ruclips.net/video/oHlANCZ1uQo/видео.html
It will harden you up physically in a way few sports can do and you will NEVER regret that because you will carry it forward for many years. I had fractures requiring surgery but still never quit. If I were still in AK I would be riding still, I remain fit enough. Now I sail a 44ft sailboat out of FL and the strength I gained from years of snowboarding is allowing that kind of very physically demanding lifestyle activity in my 70's.
DO NOT QUIT! The moment you sit down you start to die.
I rode with Flow bindings for many years, similar drop heel entry. They save a TON of energy and also have the traditional top strap use option.
Im turning 30 this year, first time ever boarding was last winter. I think im gonna get these! I hated coming in and out of my bindings, it was so much work and tiring
Burton step ins are also a good option - but more expensive as you need compatible boots
personally, I have not tried the Nideckers, but I used to have the similar K2 setup (K2 cinch), I liked it, but it just doesnt hold a candle to Burton's Stepon system now
Just my opinion. I had all the challenges you had, and Stepons just seem like a better mechanical solution
I'm still a beginner, took my third snowboarding trip this past week and picked these up because of the good review. Thanks for the awesome videos!
Enjoy!! 😊
it's nice to see someone thoroughly use a product before reviewing them, not just a day or a weekend. my only concern is that the high back doesn't fold down forward like traditional binding, something i do when getting on lift. sometimes the seat are too low and crush down on the high back if they are up right. but if the high back is laid back, then they can trip you when you're skating around. that happens when i used the Flow binding.
Yes I was hoping he would cover what it's like getting on and off the lift. Skating doesnt seem to be a problem just lift the highback up but dont lock it in.
All covered in my follow up review!
ruclips.net/video/RrBhAWoURiU/видео.html
@@malcolmmoore very good follow up vid. thanks,
Hey, the highback does fold forward, you just have to nudge it with your hand/foot
Last week I saw a guy on a slope in poland with these bindings, he said they're fantastic, but they will be on sale in the next season. For me as a snowboarder, the most annoing thing is to find a place to strap a boot, standing or sitting on a butt, especially when my friends, are mostly skiiers. It won't happen again. I was sceptical about durabitility, but yours review made me instabuy when they're arrive to the stores. Greetings
I take the final decision after watching this video.
I do like how you took the time to show how you put them on and off on a real basis and not in a prepared scenario. The sequence of putting in while riding... that's top, man.
Thanks.
Really, thanks.
I'm still using them, they just make my life easier!
@@malcolmmooreso after almost a year the durability on the moving parts is good then ?
Thanks for your honest review and feedback Malcom!
Hi guys, appreciate you looking at the comments! One question with regards to size limitations: I saw on a Web page that offers preorders that the L binding will have a US size 11 limit. Will there be an XL version of the binding? I'm on tactical adv size 11.5 boots and would love to give these a try...
@@jensmehlan2487 We will be launching the Supermatic this Fall in size M and L, adding an XL version in Fall '23.
Great review, this is litterly everything i was searching for. These bindings make snowboarden so much easier, we all know the struggle when you're on the road with your friends on skis.
Thanks, I'll be doing a follow up review on them soon, I've been riding them more on the glacier this summer. Basically everything that I said in this video still stands but I'll be addressing some of the other questions I got down in the comments!
Finally got a pair at my pro shop discount preseason sale. Been into step in bindings since I started a couple of years ago.
Your channel has not only helped me be a better rider but also helped me find gear that will help the ride as well.
Can’t wait for this season and the videos you’d bring!
Such a shame you didn't review the clew binding. I would have loved to watch a video in which you gave your thoughts compared to these having ridden both for a few weeks.
would u really like a review from such a biased person. The only fact without testing them is the highback is looking stupid.... this is what had been said when the frist snowboarder was seen on the mountain.
@@mo8b8 I would. I always find Malcolm to be eloquent and balanced in his opinion. As an experienced mountain professional I think he's perfectly placed to give an informed opinion. Given that the company offered to send him the product and he rejected the approach suggests negative bias if anything. That's exactly the type of person I would like to see a review from.
This is genuinely the best review video i have watched about ANY product, answered all my questions and more in a very natural way like it was just a friend introducing them to me instead of the superficial stuff you often get on YT reviews.
Thanks so much!!
Im totally sold on the Supermatics, in fact I've preordered them through my local pro shop but I'm gonna come to Clews defense here. I have zero problem strapping in and out going into the lodge or onto a gondola. most riders are clearly okay with that too as is evidenced by the fact that the market is dominated by strap in systems. The Clews function exactly like a normal strap system. Exactly. Except they have the added benefit of quick, no -sit entry as you get off the lift. Maybe it looks a little weird to the few people who actually notice but the design is simple, with very few added moving parts, and offers a best of both worlds setup that, in my opinion, is 2nd only to the Supermatics. That said, I think it's a distant 2nd. These Nideckers are amazing!!!
That was the most concise and honest review I've ever seen on YT of any product ever. Genuinely I was torn between these and the Burtons. I've just ordered the Nideckers.
😊
Awesome review, Malcolm! I love that you're one of the only people who do long-term reviews of gear that you've been riding for a while.
I just upgraded my bindings, so I don't think I'll be jumping into gen. 1 of the Supermatics, but with this review, I'm definitely convinced that they're something I could use, so probably in a couple of years, when an improved second gen. of these comes out and I want to upgrade again, I'll finally jump on the step-in bandwagon!
Great review, Malcolm. These are the bindings I am looking for.
Every one first talks about the use case of quickly getting into the bindings, but for me that was the least important use case. As I got older and fatter, it became almost impossible to sit down and reach my feet to strap in. Add to that the issue of dragging the board on one foot to the lift which always exhausted me, and I had nearly given up snowboarding...until I found the Flow bindings ,which do have some issues.
These Nideckers solve both of my major issues - I can step in easily when I need to ride and very importantly I can step out easily and carry the board to the lift line instead of dragging it with my diminished muscles.
I will be buying these the moment they show up in the market.
I would say these are a clear upgrade to the flows, so if you've been getting on with flows you'll love these!
sick video you are very good at making your dialogue fluid and informative while riding with flow and steez . good job man
Thanks!
Dude your videos are brilliant! Makes me wish I did that season in Austria when I was offered it years ago after college. I binged on your videos before I went boarding in early March and your lessons really helped. Thanks mate your effort is much appreciated 👊
Thanks man, I appreciate it 🙏
Another fantastic deep dive video Malcolm! Much appreciated... been riding Flows for 15+ years while following the evolution of quick entry approaches (i.e. Burton, Flow, K2, Clew) and given that every system has their design pro's/cons, the Supermatic design comes closest to addressing the ideal vision of "quick entry" with the fewest compromises. Anxiously awaiting for Supermatic version 2.0 so that I can retire my current Flows. Would love to see a long term follow up video next season on your experience with these bindings...I trust Nidecker R&D would welcome your feedback as well. Keep up the excellent content!
Thanks, yeah I'm going to keep riding them and I'll be using them over the summer on the glacier too, so will post another video in the future, or if they break beforehand!
This is a great review and I've ridden them for couple of weeks but I suggest anyone using them checks the roller is secured before every run as it fell out on coming off one lift on my 3rd holiday using them in Tignes in December 23 which was lucky in a way as I wasn't riding a black run when it happened and i only had to get a couple of lifts back down..
I checked in a couple of shops in Val D'Isere and Tignes and they were both very supportive of them saying they hadn't seen such any issues before with these,
Just back from another week in Austria and no issues this time.
BUT TAKE CARE AND ALWAYS CHECK YOUR BINDINGS FOR TIGHTNESS OF ANY PARTS YGAT5 COULD BECOME LOOSE.
Have a great ride.....
For the last 3 years I’ve been riding Clew bindings. They were and are still awesome. Less moving parts comparing to Nedecker. But I am sure these are also great.
This is a great review! I was never a fan of traditional bindings. I got a pair of flow bindings last year after a friend introduced me to them. Changed my life, however the reaching behind the back to "unlock" them required some flexibility. As a middle aged, chunky guy. Anything that makes the stepping in easier, I'm all for. I will be waiting for these to come on the market. Thanks again for the long term review.
As you pointed out, short term reviews are always fantastic. But 5-6 hours a day for 6 weeks is more than probably most of us "weekend warriors" will ever do. The longevity of the equipment is a great thing.
Same boat! Middle aged chunky guy using flows but looking for something just a tad easier. Looking forward to making the transition to these bindings.
Really rare that I comment... but your review is excellent! I rode the Vans/Switch Step in for years; buying boots on eBay because they stop manufacturing them to soon... Then, I change to Flow rear entry; which was the best compromise. Two months ago, or so, I saw a guy with a Supermatic set-up. Because is friend saw I was on Flow set-up, he ask the guy to show me how quick were the Supermatic...WoW! I think my mind is made now... Hopefully they will be available in Canada!
Thanks, I'm sure they'll be in Canada next season!
Sad that Switch got tanked. Almost everyone I talked to that had them,. loved them. I was in that same boat until a few weeks ago when my last pair of boots separated. I am going to have to get something else for next year. these look promising, but will they be able to compete with the connectedness of the switch is my question.
Invested in Burton step ons but by the time I'm through with that setup, this will be my next ones. If there are any issues or gremlins, I'm sure we'll know about it by then or it'll be fixed.
Same, season 2 with my step-ons and I love them.
Yeah exactly, I'm gonna keep going with these bindings and will post an update if anything falls apart!
@@malcolmmoore when do we get to buy em?
Been waiting for a review on these! Thank you. Great insights. Might be my next bindings.
Thanks for the review! These bindings definitely offer so much for so little (if any downside).
As an owner of the 2nd generation of the Burton Step-On bindings, here's a couple differentiators I could think of:
1) Since the Burtons don't have any straps whatsoever, the high-back can completely fold in flush with the board for easier storage especially in a boarding bag. This can be even more handy when you're checking your gear on a plane.
2) There's less overall weight for specifically the Burton Step-Ons compared to these Supermatics since there aren't any straps. The difference between 'normal' bindings and the Supermatics would be much less since they both use straps.
3) This is more of a suggested correction: conventional bindings DO come with leashes and it's strongly encouraged, if not mandatory, at a few of my local ski resorts to wear the leash just in case there are any binding malfunctions for that front foot. I think it speaks more to possible human error than the reliability of the bindings themselves. The fact that the Supermatics don't come with a leash doesn't really mean anything to me in this context. I've worn my Burtons without the leash too in those conditions where I find myself needing both feet free.
Anyway, thanks again for the detailed video, I just wanted to put in my two cents!
Speaking physics, Burton step ons transmit all the force through the little claws in the front and the one in the back. This is a lot of stress on three points. Compare to to regular bindings (or the step ins) that has a whole strap around the front of your foot and your angle. Burton step-ons therefore have a lot of pressure particularly in the front claws, which MANY snowboarders complain about since that pressure turns into pain. That's an inherent flaw of the Burton step ons and trumps any other technicality (weight, etc). I am surprised you did not find the Burton painful. These step-ins (regardless of weight) seem much better in distributing pressure between foot and straps and therefore, no pain.
The bindings may weigh less but Burton puts more structure in its step on boots. It has to. I'm willing to bet that the lightest combination of Burton step on boots and bindings weighs the same or more than a light weight boot with the supermatics.
The clew bindings are great. If your getting on the gondola, then just unstrap as normal binding and you won’t have the high backs on your feet. Problem solved. Great review by the way.
Thanks, yeah, maybe I was being a bit harsh on CLEW 😂
@@malcolmmoore I have the CLEW's as well and they work perfect. Just drop your pants over your highbacks. You can operate the lever whilst being under your pants. With the Burton's you need to tuck up your pants, otherwise they will interfere with the locking mechanism.
Dude amazing review. Love the long riding selfie takes with flawless text delivery, you really are a talented presenter!
Thanks so much 😊😊
i am defo buying these, at the moment i ride with sp step ins which i love but i still have to bend down when getting in and out, at 62yrs old anything that stops me bending down so much is a bonus, great review by the way.
Still need to bend down to hit that release lever on the back foot, just so you know! But yeah, in my opinion these are the best step ons of the lot
Best review I’ve seen on these or in general. So thorough. Looking forward to more of these on boards etc. Not enough of these types! Watched the full
Vid and picking these up!
I was considering the CLEW bindings and this looks better in some ways. Great to see step on technology developing. But it needs everyone to buy in else you still have to wait for friends to strap in at the top, or catch up after the flats at the bottom
I just got the CLEW bindings and i’ve been riding them for a week non-stop and they are amazing. I have problems with my lower back and bending all the time to strap in is a no no for me.
I got the Clew on my Never Summer. There are rooms for improvements but it’s still amazing. You won’t have the high back attached on your boots all the time. It’s only when you are on the lifts 😏
I got CLEW last year, and save a ton of time right off the lift. I pretty much get in them at the same angle as these, click it, do a little hop, and I'm off. It's funny to be in so quickly while others are sitting down and strapping in. It also helps on the flat cat tracks when you can just pop out, skate, pop in.
i have been on burton step ons for the last 3 seasons and bought this after watching your review just done 8 days in them and its great to be back in light soft boots as my burtons were a little stiff and heavy also found them easer to get in and out of keep up the good work 💪👏👏
Can’t wait to get one of these great bindings. Your remarks on the Flows are spot on.
And, man, your ride is the best I’ve seen on YT and what I dream being able doing one day! Keep up that great work.
Thanks André!
@@malcolmmoore I really need to seriously plan a snowboarding trip to Alpe d’Huez!
I like that your channel reviews the product while you ride them. Helps to see how they perform.
I am a burton step on fan and have 4 pairs of step on boots and bindings. But I would totally get this once it comes out. I just hate bending down and this eliminates 1 more step when getting off the board.
Now this is a step-in binding I can see myself riding with, thanks for the thorough review mate!
Got my Purple Jokers today. Got them mostly setup off the board as I have a Dancehaul coming shortly to pair them with.
These things are smooth, even dry on a carpet.
Interesting mention about the burtons at the end regarding the leash. I was in France last season and they were stopping people getting on lifts with the step on without a leash as some people lost their boards off while on the chairs.
Great review by the way, I think I'm sold on them as after some new bindings.
the traditional bindings are the not-so-cool part of snowboarding, quite a hassle. planning to have my own gear, finally, and was leaning towards Burton's. you've just changed my mind! great and thorough review, addressing all the questions most of us had in mind. thanks!
Also just to add. You have a great and informative manner on the vids - I’ll be looking at your other stuff too now! Happy new year
Thanks so much!! Happy New Year to you too!!!
Great review - was seriously looking at the Clew ( I do love step-in tech and still ride today with a pair of 4 year old Cinch CTS). On an unrelated note - I’m a recent subscriber to the channel and am currently in La Plagne putting your guidance into practice - have to say my progression has been amazing - many thanks for the vids fella!
Awesome to hear, I hope you're enjoying the slushy conditions!
Love all your videos you explain everything in such simple and clear terms. Love the look of these bindings. I bought the Burton SO version 2 last year, wish I’d known about these
Besides from the great review this is such a cool video xD coming out of the lift, just explaining everything going down the mountain while also having good sound quality. Basically doing a one-take for the first 4 minutes ... i wonder if this worked out the first time or if you had to do it more than once xD
This was second take haha, not for any malfunction with the bindings, but just because I waffled on a bit too long in the first take!
Great review. No-one uses the leash on Step Ons. Straps will break before you come out of a Step On. I'm steering my great nephew toward the Nidecker Supermatic and the Burton Step Ons.
Hey brother Malcolm! Excellent review. I would definitely give these a look when I replace my Burton Cartel bindings. I used to have Flows back in the day, but as you mentioned, when the footbed or the bottom of your boot gott packed w/ snow, they were very difficult to close. A couple of questions: Do you know if these would work with Burton's Channel System? And, does the highback fold all the way forward over the binding? The chair can break the rear highback if there's not enough room between the chair & the snow for it to clear when you're getting on. It's happened to me more than once when I've forgotten to fold my highback and it crushes your day!
Think I get to all these questions here: ruclips.net/video/RrBhAWoURiU/видео.html
As for the Burton StepOn leash they put it there in case you or someone else accidentally clips the release lever while you are on a lift. I believe same could happen with Nidecker Suprematic once the release lever is accidentally released while on a lift it will fall freely.
Yes true and I have a feeling actually nidecker might include a leash on the production model next season!
@@malcolmmoore The nideckers look like they need the leash more than the burtons do, as the nideckers lever is designed to be easily operated by your rear foot compared to the burtons where you have to lift the lever with your hand and would be difficult to operate with your foot. So an accidental release of the lever by your foot while on the lift looks a lot more likely to occur on the nideckers.
Great review. I rode the SP step in's this season, now I wish I waited. These look AMAZING!!!
Thanks for the extremely thorough review. I'm going to also check out your follow up, since I'm in the market for new bindings and want to be sure. But because you rode them for so long and so heavily before this first one and then walked me through all my possible concerns I'm pretty satisfied with the information here
have had the K2 clickers for about 20 years. (Various updated bindings, newer boa boots) They are great for me except in powder or when the metal on the boots ice up. When I carry my Clicker board I love how flat the board is without bindings (I don't use heel backs on K2 Clickers). Then I got Flows a few years ago for my Jones Hovercraft but they were somehow worse, maybe my feet are too, big but half the time I ended up strapping in since my boot wouldn't slide in enough for me to lift the back. I got Clew's this year because I didn't have the money to get both Burton boots and bindings like my friends. After a couple trips so far the Clews seem to be really good in different snow conditions. Also I'm a grown ass man so I don't care what people think, I'll wear the Clew binding backs into the lodge at lunch. I'll chime in again next year as I see how they wear.
Thanks for the review and these will for sure be on my need to buy list.
Last season (first ever down the slopes) I ran on rental boards and bindings but hated em. So I purchased my own setup for the season and did plenty of research. Ended up with a complete nidecker setup. Ranger boots, escape 156 board and flow bindings. As a new snowboarder this let me progress quickly and I went from barely getting down on greens to surfing down reds (no blacks yet and had a few lessons this season). So going back to traditional bindings is a no for me as the flow bindings let me get crusing quickly after leaving the lift.
Also have to say thanks for all your instruction videos they have helped an old fart like me (turning 49 in a couple of weeks) a lot!
Awesome thanks!
Great review I’ve just bought some after having some K2 step in which fell apart after 2 seasons so I am looking forward to using these next week in Méribel.
Thanks for the review! No issues with straps except at the local area. Limited vertical. The ~6 minute up and ~3 minute down. Local board set up with Flow NX2-TM. Too lazy to deal with straps. Plus more laps/hr. All other systems were out for the reasons you noted. Mtn board trad bindings. Good to hear these bindings have the feel and performance of trad strap bindings. Happy to hear they seem durable. Thanks for the close up of the locking ratchet and heel hammock system.
My Burton Step Ons in the US, don’t have the mention leash. It took me a season to get used to them, but they work well for me. I was going to upgrade to the version 2.0, but I might try these.
I adore mine but I had the bindings disengage on a chairlift. Use your leash 😀 ps my fault entirely
Just bought them, tested in Austrian Alps and I'm really impressed how cool they work. Best bindings at the moment.
Great to hear!
they look wicked, what i really want to see now is how long they last under usual wear and tear... With so many new moving components (the "hammock" in particular) I would imagine these will start wearing our pretty quickly.. or even break if dropped/stepped on incorrectly... they looked weak. the locking mechanism is surely another weak point too... if ice builds up in the lock - say if you left your board outside while grabbing a beer/resting... how do you unice the lock/does it even matter?
Can you check where they are made? I saw that some of the Nidecker stuff is made in Tunisia and I like that idea...
Another great review MM. This sort of tech will make it easier for all of us. Hopefully they offer a stiffer model in the future. Looks impressive. Thanks for posting.
Great vid review. Just managed to bag myself a pair of these for the next season. Can't wait to try them out over New Year
Great review and very honest review too.
I've never had a problem with traditional bindings but after watching this I'm definitely going to look into these. I have a Nidecker Area 153 which I love and such a good brand that they have to be good.
Thanks again for yet another informative video
I've got the Area 153 also, with NX2 Hybrid Flows. Love the combo. Pretty sure these will be my next bindings though.
@@williamstaley1902 I'm using union force bindings at the moment but these look amazing and will definitely be getting a pair
Flows for life!! Been riding Flow for almost 20 years, never found anything better. Many have tried to copy but no ones better.
Me too, but I'm tempted to make the switch and try it out. This seems like a pretty good alternative and slightly easier to get in.
You might be surprised, I have ridden Flows for 15 years and recently got these. Not sure if I will go back, pretty happy after 2 weeks in Japan on them. Still love my trusty NX2’s though!
Ahh I'm so excited to buy these! Thank you for the comprehensive review!
i got the burton step on's the year they came out and I love them! that being said these look super cool! i will def consider when i next upgrade. i love that you can wear any boot. oh and you right about the leash - its not a big deal but it is slightly annoying. that being said i have never ever felt like i would lose the board on a lift. its just additional safety - which no one can hate on.
Had to open youtube app on my phone just to hit like and comment how good of a review this is!! Gear channels out there take notes!!!!!
Haha thanks man I appreciate it 🙏
Without MM's reviews on these binding I dont think I could have ordered a pair on line without testing them first. Every other review seems to have been made by very advanced hard charging riders that have unboxed them, fixed them to a board. cranked down all 3 straps, spent a day or 2 on them and then given negative feedback because they didnt understand that the 3rd strap is meant to be loose. Ive had mine a couple of weeks now and so far have only spent 6 hours of indoor slope time on them, but because it is indoor time that means ive been stepping in and out every 4 or 5 mins for 6 hours which I think is a reasonable test of the step in function. Absolute delight to use and when riding they feel at least as good as the Now bindings they replaced. Roll on March 2024. Incidentally, I think the 23/24 versions have put on weight. My XL supermatics are 1358g and my Now bindings 1013g which is 345g per binding, that said they still dont feel heavy underfoot.
Great review, saw these yesterday at a dry slope near Christchurch. Got them put aside there and then. After last few years of trying out each flow innovation and usually reverting to my trusty ride strap in bindings from back in the day, these bindings are perfect for me, I’m now just into my fifties and ride with friends that ski, so don’t want them to be waiting for me strapping in. Anyhoo - after this review, phoned up and paid for the bindings. Love your work 😃
Awesome, you'll love them!
Nice one just got my supermatics delivered and set up on the strength of your great video..trip booked for Xmas 22 can't wait to use them..nice one Mr Moore
Awesome, mine are still going strong 💪
great review. was looking for a pair of step in bindings and was considering flow but this convinced me to take a serious look at these.
So glad I saw this. I've been looking at pre-ordering CLEW bindings for the 2023 season and now I think I'll be waiting on these instead.
A mix of rear entry and step in, that you can also use as a regular straps binding if you want, and with any boot you want.
Clearly superior to the step on.
Case closed.
Great review. Interesting design. They look soft though. I prefer the super responsiveness the Burton step-ons give though.
Main/only downside of the Clew is aesthetics?
Hi Malcolm, I notice you were riding an Amplid Dada snowboard and I saw your video where you talk about how you chose it. In your quest trying out different boards did you happen to try the Amplid Spray tray? I was considering getting that board and putting on the supermatics. The Spray tray has a waist of 25.4 which should work out ok for my size 8.5 us boots. However... the supermatics add 3cm to the total length. This works out fine with your Dada but do you think I would be able to use the supermatics on the Spray tray. Just for reference my angles are 36/27. Thanks!
Do not drop oil on moving parts and they will not move smoothly. Do you have any good maintenance products?
They are amazing!! I'm sold. I had burton step ins from the early 00s and I swore by them the only thing that let them down was their weight but the niedeckers look absolutely fantastic!
These are very heavy.
@choski76 are they? The originals were pretty heavy, but I like to freeride and they were super convenient. I use strap ins now.
@airshredder7314 yeah i got my pair this Fall. Way heavier than traditional strap in bindings
I know which bindings I will buy in the fall. Thanks for the review!
Looks amazing can't wait to snag a pair once I get back into snowboarding!
Really nice video! Not just informative it was either. Fun to watch. Well done!
Thanks!
I guess one issue is whether if they do break, can you easily get spare parts? That’s where Burton has a huge advantage, pretty much wherever you are there will be a shop with Burton components. However, if these don’t break, they do look pretty interesting
I'll keep riding them until they fail! I'll post another video whenever that is, and will see how easy it is to fix or replace...!
Flow/Nidecker is pretty easy to deal with for parts directly via their website. But they've had some shortages this past year due to reduced manufacturing runs (Covid) and some items were held back for next year's parts bins, at least on the Flow side. Yeah, but parts at a local shop? Not likely. 😉
I’ve had the flow and now use the Burton Step ons. These look really innovative. I worry about these getting crushed by a chair lift as it seems the high back doesn’t nest in to clear the chair. Also, in powder I always like the flows that you could always engage regardless of how much powder was in the binding. The step ons are a bit more of a struggle. What have you encountered with powder in the binding area as you are trying to get them to lock on?
For the chair lift issue, wouldn't you just leave them in the unengaged position? Looks like it leaves enough space to not get crushed.
Nevermind, Malcom responded to another comment with the same question below: "Yeah you can fold the highback forward. With the straps done up it goes to about 30° but if any pressure is put on them they will just squash further into the straps. I haven't found any chairlift low enough that the following was required - but for when packing them in a bag it is helpful - you can always just undo the straps and fully push the highback down as with a normal binding 👍"
I’ve ridden Burton StepOns since they first came out. If skating isn’t required at the top, I usually have the back foot already locked in on the chair, so I can slide off & keep going just like a skier. Also, you don’t need to reach down and touch anything before stepping in; you just step in, click, and away your go. Yes I do use a leash, because you never know where a skier will put their stupid pole. One other big safety related reason I prefer Burton, is that the release lever is pull up, not push down. This allows me to modify the lever by attaching a line (twisting hockey stick tape) from the lever to the highback making it much easier and less of a reach by about 6 inches. Inches that can save your life if you’re stuck in a bad situation in the trees and you have to release your foot in order to extricate yourself from that bad situation. DC makes compatible boots, and other companies will soon be licensed and producing compatible boots as well. Next year will be the 7th generation of Burton StepOns, and they keep getting improved every year.
@@PrepSail Im interested in how you connect the lever to the highback? do you have a pic of that. I would like to try something like that on my step ons.
@@oevadsun It’s just hockey stick tape wrapped around the lever, then twisted into cordage, then wrapped into the hole in the high back. It makes a nice convenient cord you just pull on & you’re out. And it doesn’t void the warranty, just peel it off….
Hi Malcolm, thanks for testing, I was curious about this system.
Nevertheless I cannot agree with what you say about Burton Step-On. Having them 2 years now, I can really coming out from chairlift without stopping or not even looking at my bindings. I just "throw" my foot against the spoiler, 2 clicks out of 4 (2 clicks on the front, 2 clicks for the 2 levels on the spoiler) and I can go. The step-on does not require to go completely "flat"on the board, but just follow the spoiler inclination.
I find Supermatic more complex, especially for beginners/false intermediates, because it required entering with an angle. You can manage very well standing at one foot and even snowboarding at one foot, like I do,.....but have a look at how many snowboarder can conduct their boards at one feet only....20%? The remaining would really struggle staying at one foot and inserting the other feet at that angle.
Sure the investment for Step-on+Boots is high and the feeling cannot be the same, but since I like it with Ion boots and do not miss those Nidecker.
I wanted just to say mine, thanks! ;)
Thanks for the review but Burton got it right. I'll never give up my Step-Ons. Had them since first generation. They still work great, simple in and out and no pressure on the top of my foot.
Great video Malcolm, so happy I found out about your channel!
Thanks Ivo!
Really enjoyed this video and indeed all of them. some very helpful tips particularly for carving as I think about next season. I have read through the comments and I saw a few people had asked whether they can be used on Burton and could not see an answer. I have looked on Nidecker and a couple of other places and couldn't see a definite confirmation. I wondered if you knew or indeed if anyone else did?
My 2024 Supermatics arrived a couple of days ago (2 months earlier than promised). They've passed the step-in and out test on the living-room floor so next up will be a trip to some indoor snow in a few weeks.
Haha, always cracks me up when people get strapped in to new gear on their carpet, I'm guilty of that too! 😂
Excellent review! thank you! I got them in size L with the Nidecker KITA boots in US11 and unfortunately I do struggle with the size. It seems that my boots just don't fit all and would rather need size XL. The toe strap just moves upside because the boot is too long to the front of the binding. Otherwise they are great bindings.
Really good review video. I pulled the trigger on the step on bindings and don't regret it but it's a little bit spicy having to buy bindings and boots all at the same time.
Thank you for the super detailed breakdown of the bindings. These definitely look like the future, can't wait until Nidecker manufactures ones with a stiffer flex.
For now I am somewhat stuck with my Burton Ion SO boots and StepOn X bindings for the sake of stiffness. The only major pain point is the registration used for guiding the back cleat into the binding, I tend to miss 1 out of every 10 times. As far as the leash goes, I don't bother with it and just keep in my pocket. Although I think Burton could have chosen a better clip for the leash, it is hard to operate with gloves on.
I've been told to use a leash on normal bindings as well when I started snowboarding...
So is the idea that these can pretty much work with most any snowboard boot? And special boots aren't needed?
I bought the last pair I could find after this video and just got it today. Can't wait to test it!!!
Awesome!
I had the Flow rear entry bindings before and they were trash. They ripped the heel off my boot from trying to get out of them. Maybe because I have bigger feet? Switched to Burton step ons and liking them so far
Had that happen on both my kids boots with their flow bindings, never happended on any of mine through the years. I believe its up to quality and design of the boots. Above beginner models flow bindings of recent years are a farcry from yesteryears flow bindings.
Have been riding the original Flow bindings since the very beginning.
Also tried straps, Switch and the first Burton step-ins. Back entry bindings of any brand are head and shoulders above them all for comfort, choice of boots and ease of use.
If you haven't, try the CLEW Binding. I am absolutely in love with this binding and do not want to go back to my Burton Mala Vita although it had way more features like canted footbed and highback rotation etc.
when you ride the gondola , you can still take off the CLEW as a regular binding witout the highback on your boot.So i think what it really comes down to is which of these is more convenient and easier to step in.
amazing review Malcolm - thanks. I'm a convert to Burton Step On, but the option to go back to swapping boards with mates on lazy runs at the end of the day has been sorely missed. Plus I'd get to use my Adidas Boots again... which were amazingly comfortable.
Well, I've pre-ordered a set and gone from cynic (flow 2.ohhh) to 'this guy seems legit' and I trust his videos.
I'm optimistic they'll be as simple to use as my Step-Ons, but I'm also super keen to get back to a canted footbed, which I do think takes some of the ankle and knee aches out of the game.
Fantastic review! I'm sold!
Now I just have to get the money... :')
Marcel’s farm run. I miss Huez so much. As usual awesome video Malcolm!
Awesome video! Only thing I worry about it the weight/flex. From what I’ve seen, they’re not ideal for freestyle. Would you agree?
Edit: Nevermind, saw your other video! That does it, I’ll be looking for a pair soon lol
Hi Malcolm,
This is the review I've been waiting for! From someone I know I can trust.
Here are a couple of things I've been wondering about from the first day I saw these (and also from my experience with Flow. I ride the NX2-CX which I think is the stiffest one they have)
1. Mechanism durability - You were eluding to it in the beginning of the video but you didn't actually say, does the locking mechanism show any wear or looseness over time?
2. Strap locks - An issue I've had with my Flows was that the locking on the strap ratchets(that little button) become loose over time and after a full season they basically stopped locking... which became super annoying since every nudge when your foot is out makes them tighten and then you get off the lift and your foot doesn't go in without a re-adjust. Did you notice anything like that?
3. Boot wear - did you notice any wear on your boots from the repeated in and out?
4. Stiffness - I love my boots and bindings stiff and was wondering about your thoughts. You did mention the Supermatics are middle of the road but paired with stiff boot would you say it's gonna be noticeable? if so, might be better to wait for that stiffer Supermatic variant to come out before pulling the trigger?
Been following you for a long time and love your videos mate.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks!
1. So far I haven't noticed any issues with durability but I would expect something to go at some point, however everything looks and feels as it was put of the box right now, so I will see when that happens if it does!
2. The locking strap doesn't seem to move, and definitely not tighten, to be honest I didn't even realise about it when I started using them, I never read the manual and I wasn't locking them as I just thought they worked like a normal binding strap. During that time they still stayed in place. I kind of thought it was there as a second failsafe basically. But either way it hasn't unintentionally loosened or tightened off.
3. I haven't noticed any boot wear but I guess the tread on the base might start to go a little faster than normal as you slide in and out, but there's not much friction on the skid plate so I can't see it happening fast.
4. Yeah they're not a very stiff binding, the baseplate is very solid but the straps and highbacks are softer. That's kind of what I like but if you're used to something stiffer they might not be the best for you!
@@malcolmmoore Appreciate the speedy reply, seems like a really solid package then ! I'll wait the stiffer ones I think...
Also, hope you could do a follow up after a longer period of riding them to see if something finally gives or if any of the issues I mentioned come about.
Keep shredding! And please keep that sweet content coming :)
Best demo video by far. Thanks. I bought em and am concerned about the weight. They are so freaking heavy!!
Hope they work out for you! I'm still using mine, they're great 😊
It is pretty negligible when you are riding, especially if you are a bigger guy. I personally didn’t notice, even though they are a little heavier than my Flow NX2’s
Have you been to chairlifts that are pretty close to the ground where traditional bindings would need to be folded down in order for it to not have the highback be crushed? Wonder if these would get crushed since it can't be folded all the way down
They can be partially folded down, it would vary to be a very very low lift to cause trouble!
Thanks a lot Malcolm! It would be cool if Nidecker gave you a code and you'd get a commission on these. Will hold out and see if they do that
The highbacks look lower when folded back to leave the entry open, looks low enough to my eyes.
@@malcolmmoore When you say folded down, do you mean forwards toward the straps?