Snowboard bindings connect you to your board—make sure they’re up to the task. Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

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Snowboard bindings are your bridge between the body and the board. And just like bridges, one that isn’t well built or suited for the load will not do its job very well. That’s why the best snowboard bindings make all the difference when riding.

We’ve been testing the best snowboard bindings on the market since last season, going through countless setups on different boards, in all types of conditions to give you this list of our favorites. Finding the best bindings for your particular riding style and ability will help you progress faster and maximize your fun on the mountain.

Navigate To: Comparison Table | How We Tested | Buyer’s Guide 

Related: Best Snowboards | Best Snowboard Boots

Editor’s Note: Some of the products in this guide are available at deep discounts during the Evo, REI, and Backcountry holiday sales.

The Best Snowboard Bindings of 2024/2025

Best Overall Snowboard Bindings: Arbor Cypress

Best Beginner Snowboard Bindings: Season Universal

Best Freeride Snowboard Bindings: Jones Apollo Pro

Best Splitboard Bindings: Spark Surge ST

Best Women’s Snowboard Bindings: Nitro Ivy

Runner-Up Best Snowboard Bindings: Union Force

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Best Overall Snowboard Bindings

Arbor Cypress ($299)

Best For: All-around riders looking for a versatile binding
Weight: 968g
Underfoot: Dual-density EVA foam
Highback Stiffness: Stiff
Strap adjustment: Quick-release lever

Pros: Durable, eco-conscious design with plant-based BioStrap materials, versatile
Cons: Highback adjustments require tools, which may be inconvenient for on-the-go changes

The Arbor Cypress is a true master of none, but the sum of the parts creates a fantastic all-mountain snowboard binding. For the price, it’s well-built with a thoughtful design and solid hardware. We’re huge fans of Arbor due to the brand’s commitment to sustainability, and the Cypress snowboard bindings are super versatile so you can buy one pair and be done. From off-piste riding to groomer runs and the park, we found the Arbor Cypress performed well on all types of snow for all types of riding. 

A mini-disc system adds versatility, allowing for natural board flex and improved feel, which is essential for riders who want a closer connection to their snowboard. Although the highback adjustments do require tools, the heel loop and toe/ankle straps are tool-free, which is convenient for quick adjustments. Plus, the eco-friendly materials used in construction and the brand’s record for sustainable design make us feel even better about recommending the Arbor Cypress.

Of course, no snowboard bindings are perfect, and while we love the versatility of the Cypress, it can also hold it back from achieving top marks for any one category. The Union Force is another all-arounder that we loved, but it’s a touch heavier and a bit more expensive, so we named the Arbor Cypress our favorite.

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Best Beginner Snowboard Binding

Season Universal ($240)

Best For: Beginner-intermediate riders who prefer cruisy runs
Weight: 982g
Underfoot: Dual-density foam
Highback Stiffness: Medium-soft
Strap adjustment: Quick-release lever

Pros: Simple, durable design with versatile flex for all-mountain riding
Cons: Limited adjustability, which may restrict precise fit adjustments for some

The Season Universal snowboard bindings are crafted to offer simplicity, durability, and versatility for riders of all levels, but these are especially attractive to beginners due to the competitive price. Featuring a medium flex nylon-injected baseplate and heel cup, the bindings provide a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making them ideal for all-mountain use.

Designed with a 2.5-degree canted base, these bindings improve rider stance by reducing knee strain, especially on long days. The Universal’s highback has an asymmetrical shape that flexes well while remaining supportive, which is particularly advantageous for beginners and intermediate riders looking to ride off the groomers without needing stiff equipment. The bindings feature metal lever buckles with a nylon ratchet, offering reliable and simple adjustments.

We found the bindings to be reliable and well built, although due to the lack of stiffness couldn’t be considered high-performance. Still, they did well in open groomers and easy park laps without needing any technical nuances that tight maneuvers require. Though minimal in terms of customizability, these bindings excel in ease and durability, making them a great choice for those seeking reliable performance at an affordable price point.

Best Freeride Snowboard Bindings

Jones Apollo Pro ($599) 

Best For: High-speed freeriding
Weight: 783g
Underfoot: Triple-density EVA foam
Highback Stiffness: Stiff
Strap adjustment: Latch and screw

Pros: Lightweight, highly responsive Flax/Carbon highback, uses recycled materials
Cons: Pricey, stiff highback may cause calf discomfort on prolonged rides

The Jones Apollo Pro is designed for expert freeriders who seek ultimate edge control and precision, particularly in steep and technical terrain. Featuring a Flax/Carbon highback, the Apollo Pro offers an extremely stiff flex, making it responsive for aggressive, high-speed carving. These bindings are best suited for experienced riders who prioritize stability and control, particularly on big lines and in freeride conditions.

This binding incorporates Skate Tech—a technology that channels energy directly to the board edges for efficient power transfer, perfect for big-mountain or high-speed scenarios. It includes three different foam densities in the foot pillow for zonal shock absorption where it’s needed most and less where it isn’t. 

With adjustable bushings and modes that allow for custom responsiveness (Freeride Mode for maximum response vs. Surf Mode for a looser feel), it provides a high level of adaptability for big-mountain riders who need to charge hard in variable conditions. The durable Flax/Carbon highback and fiberglass-reinforced base make it one of the most robust bindings in its category, ideal for pushing boundaries on technical descents.

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Best Splitboard Bindings

Spark Surge ST ($489) 

Best For: Splitboarding
Weight: 681g (not including pucks)
Underfoot: Baseplate only (padding sold separately)
Highback Stiffness: Stiff
Strap adjustment: Phillips

Pros:  Durable construction, asymmetrical highbacks provide excellent edge-to-edge response
Cons: Hardware can come loose, needs routine maintenance to tighten

The Spark Surge ST is crafted for dedicated backcountry splitboarders who prioritize power, stability, and durability. We found them to be simple and reliable on transitions, while at the same time holding a turn while pinning it at high speeds. The binding’s ST (Smooth Touring) Tech features over-molded thermoplastics on critical components like the ST Whammy Bars for extra lift, and the touring brackets, minimizing friction and extending the binding’s lifespan for more efficient climbs.

Additionally, Spark R&D has simplified its Tesla T1 system for efficient transitions, making it one of the most streamlined and reliable choices for technical backcountry tours. The bomber construction does come with a bit of extra maintenance that can’t be neglected, otherwise you may lose some hardware somewhere along the skin track. If you remember to keep the bolts tightened, there won’t be any worries, but neglect this task and you’ll be hoping you packed a set of replacement parts, probably having to do some maintenance in sub-optimal conditions.

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Best Women’s Snowboard Bindings

Nitro Ivy ($319)

Best For: All-around women’s snowboarders
Weight: 805g
Underfoot: Foam + nitro air dampening
Highback Stiffness: Medium-soft
Strap adjustment: Quick-release levers

Pros: Excellent shock absorption, secure fit
Cons: Slightly heavier than some other women’s bindings, limited adjustability options

The Nitro Ivy bindings are engineered specifically for women seeking high-performance bindings with excellent comfort and control. Designed with a medium-stiff flex and built on Nitro’s Stealth Air base frame, these bindings provide stability and response, making them versatile enough for both all-mountain and freestyle riding. The ASYM Women’s Highback complements the frame, adding support and precision without compromising flexibility, while at the same time keeping the weight to a manageable level. Nitro’s AIR Dampening system in the heel area offers superior shock absorption, reducing foot fatigue from hard landings and choppy snow, while the 3° canted footbed promotes an ergonomic stance to ease strain on the knees, especially during longer sessions.

A standout feature of the Ivy (and many Nitro bindings) is the Vibram rubber-infused toe-cap, ensuring a secure foothold with a natural, slip-free grip on the boot. The bindings are reinforced with stainless steel cables in the connectors, adding durability for demanding riders and high-impact landings. While not the lightest binding on the market, the Nitro Ivy’s build quality and materials make it a reliable choice for women who push their limits on the mountain.

These features make the Ivy a solid choice for women seeking reliability and comfort across all types of terrain.

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Runner-Up Best Snowboard Binding

Union Force ($329) 

Best For: Versatility and value
Weight: 1046g
Underfoot:
Highback Stiffness: Medium
Strap adjustment: Phillips Head

Pros: Great value, excellent all-mountain versatility and durable build, lifetime warranty
Cons: A touch heavy, doesn’t shine at anything

The Union Force bindings are some of the most versatile, durable, and responsive bindings out there. It’s a solid choice for riders who value an all-around binding that performs well on various terrain types. With a medium-stiff flex in the highback, the Force bindings offer responsive edge-to-edge control that suits all-mountain riders who occasionally like to tweak it in the park. The baseplate is strong and solid without being too rigid, allowing for a really mindful connection with the board, but still allowing you to really lean into turns without losing control.

For the price, you are hard-pressed to find a better-performing snowboard binding that’s built so tough. The extra thick baseplate is worth the added weight if you’re the person to really give it your all and take a hard tumble. Better to have a few dozen extra grams now than to have to replace your bindings more often. While the Force felt a touch more durable than the Arbor Cypress, that binding’s lower weight and price edged out this pick for our top spot.

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Best of the Rest

High-Performance Snowboard Bindings

Union Falcor ($399) 

Best For: Aggressive, high-performing riders
Weight: 870g
Underfoot: Wide foam bushings under baseplate
Highback Stiffness: Stiff + Flexible
Strap adjustment: Allen key, double bolted (not for on-the-fly adjustments)

Pros: Unibody design, exterior bushing system keeps a tight grip on the board at all times
Cons: On-the-fly adjustability is limited

Travis Rice’s pro model performs how you would expect it to, and the Union Falcor provided some of the best performance chops from any snowboard bindings on this list. The solid, wraparound frame feels sturdy and responsive, no matter which axis the torsional twist happens, and at any prevailing force. The highback has a carbon composite frame that holds the stiffness when front to back but is still flexible on the rotational axis.

Of course, there are drawbacks with a unibody design: namely, you lose the on-the-fly adjustability that most riders benefit from. As a result, you want to make your adjustments at home and not before dropping into a big line. However, these bindings are for specific riders, and if you need the highest output bindings for aggressive lines, the Union Falcor is excellent. 

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Comfortable Footbed

Nitro Phantom ($369) 

Best For: Riders seeking enhanced underfoot comfort
Weight: 972g
Underfoot: 3º canted toe
Highback Stiffness: Stiff
Strap adjustment: Quick-release lever

Pros: Exceptional comfort with AIR Plus dampening and ergonomic canted footbed
Cons: Too soft for aggressive off-piste riding

The Nitro Phantom is a high-performance binding that stands out for its all-mountain versatility and comfort, featuring Nitro’s AIR Plus footbed with dual dampening technology for maximum shock absorption and comfort. Seriously though, it made for a spongy surface that was still stiff enough to be responsive with a dampened ride that performs equally well in rough conditions and on groomers. The Phantom uses a 3° canted footbed to promote a natural, ergonomic stance, which is a plus for all-day riding and helps reduce knee strain. The Glass Fiber Reinforced AIR 2.0 base frame and a responsive highback provide solid support and stability while remaining easy to maneuver.

Additionally, the Übergrip toe strap with Vibram EcoStep™ rubber ensures a secure grip on the boot, and cable-reinforced connectors add durability, making the binding resilient against breakage. This setup is complemented by premium comfort ankle straps, which include a flex window to maintain a snug fit without uncomfortable pressure points, even on long rides.

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Runner-Up Best Freeride

YES. Drive ($329) 

Best For: Big powder days
Weight: 969g (2023 model)
Underfoot: Flat, stiffer footbed
Highback Stiffness: Medium-stiff
Strap adjustment: Latch and screw

Pros: Excellent shock absorption with Skate-Tech and dense padding
Cons: Limited adjustability may not suit all riders

YES. acquired NOW bindings this year, and the Whistler-born brainchild of legendary pro rider JF Pelchat live on under a new and improved YES. brand. The bindings are known for their innovative Skate-Tech, which pivots on a central kingpin, directing energy directly to the board’s edges that are similar to the physics of a skateboard truck for highly responsive turns. This feature offers riders a smooth, shock-absorbing experience on rough and variable snow.

The YES. Drive bindings feature a medium-stiff flex and asymmetrical Calfback highbacks, allowing for powerful edge control and stability at high speeds. The Flip-It ankle straps add versatility, allowing riders to adjust the support on the fly based on whether you’re riding hard or cruising in a more flowy surf style.

The bindings come with two swappable sets of bushings—medium and hard—enabling custom tuning to match terrain and conditions. Being on the stiffer side, the Drive is better suited to firm snow and big lines than for playful park laps. 

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Best Step-On Snowboard Bindings

Burton Step On ($299) 

Best For: Burton loyalists who want to improve efficiency on the mountain
Weight: 785g
Underfoot:
Highback Stiffness: Medium
Strap adjustment: Step on

Pros: Fast and convenient entry and exit, three-point contact for enhanced boot-to-binding stability
Cons: Requires compatible Burton Step On boots, limiting boot options

The Burton Step On bindings offer an innovative, strap-free system that lets riders quickly step in and out with ease. Designed for speed and convenience, the Step On system connects boots to bindings through three secure contact points—two toe hooks and a heel clip—creating a locked-in feel that many riders find responsive and stable. With a medium flex highback and full bed cushioning, these bindings are well-suited for all-mountain riders who prioritize efficiency and control. The system is particularly advantageous for those who dislike the hassle of buckling in and out on each run and is compatible with Burton’s Step On boots only.

These bindings are ideal for intermediate to advanced riders who want a no-fuss, efficient binding solution. The snowboard bindings may not suit riders who prefer the customization and flexibility of traditional strap setups. For anyone open to investing in compatible Burton boots, the Step On system offers unmatched efficiency for getting in and out of bindings when every second of a pow day counts.

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Step-In for Standard Snowboard Boots

Nidecker Supermatic ($299) 

Best For: Riders who want the convenience of step-in but love their standard boots
Weight: 1291g
Underfoot: Foam
Highback Stiffness: Medium
Strap adjustment: Quick-release lever

Pros: Compatible with any traditional snowboard boots, easy to strap in
Cons: Heavier than many standard bindings, higher potential for parts failure

For people who truly love their boots but don’t want the fuss of strapping in and out every run anymore, the Nidecker Supermatic delivers. These bindings allow riders to use any traditional snowboard boot rather than a specific model. With a mid-stiff flex and durable construction, these bindings are suitable for all-mountain and freeride use, giving a solid feel in both big lines and fun groomer laps.

The step-in mechanism takes a few reps and then it’s like riding a bike. We found it best to make sure the highback is reclining fully to allow for a slip-in entry when stepping down on the heel. To exit, riders simply activate the release lever on the inside, making these bindings a practical choice for those who value efficiency without compromising the support of traditional straps.

Built with a fiberglass-reinforced nylon baseplate, the Supermatic bindings provide excellent responsiveness, especially in firm conditions. The asymmetrical highback enhances control, making it responsive for advanced riders who prioritize precision on steeper runs. Although the baseplate is heavier than some traditional bindings, the new innovation is one that will turn heads on the mountain.

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Capable Freestyle Snowboard Bindings

Union Ultra ($299) 

Best For: Freestyle riders who aren’t exclusively park rats
Weight: 919g
Underfoot: Foam toe and heel, plastic mid
Highback Stiffness: Medium-soft
Strap adjustment: Phillips

Pros: Responsive and precise with a comfortable fit
Cons: Lighter construction sacrifices some durability

The Union Ultra bindings are designed to provide a lightweight, responsive ride that excels in both freestyle and all-mountain terrain. The design is built to combine the best of flexibility and response, making them versatile enough for park laps while also holding their own on the rest of the mountain. The Fused Vaporlite bushings run the whole length of the foot underneath, delivering excellent shock absorption, reducing foot fatigue, and allowing for a smooth ride even in bumpy conditions. We found that while responsive, it was more suited to slower speeds and park laps than pinning it on steep descents. But the cushioning and smooth response made for some really fun freestyle sessions. 

The Union Ultra bindings are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders who want a high-performance freestyle binding that is also capable of handling all-mountain conditions. With a focus on lightweight construction and comfort, the Ultra is perfect for riders who want to spend time both in the park and exploring the rest of the mountain.

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Keep in mind your board width, boot size, and riding style when selecting snowboard boots. Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Snowboard Bindings Comparison Table

Without a doubt: Gear testing is the best part of our job! Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

How We Tested Snowboard Bindings

Testing snowboard bindings requires a lot of snowboarding. Thankfully, our lead tester, Steve Andrews, spends many a winter’s day on his snowboard and has done so for the better part of 25 years. As a professional filmmaker and guide, he also spends time moving around the mountain with a heavy pack in uncontrolled terrain. 

The bindings were tested at Whistler and Mount Baker, two mountains known for deep, heavy snow, and big lines. Steve took these to the test and rode the same lines while painstakingly switching out the bindings. The result was instant feedback on how the bindings differed from one day to the next.

Heather Hendricks also contributed testing notes and expertise, and while testing dozens and dozens of snowboards for our Best Snowboards and Best Women’s Snowboards guides, she also tested out a number of snowboard bindings.

Finally, Nathan Lemin contributed two decades of snowboarding knowledge and plenty of binding testing to this guide.

What should you look for in good snowboard bindings? We’ve got you covered! Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Snowboard Bindings Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right snowboard bindings can make or break your day on the mountain. Whether crushing lines in the backcountry or stacking clips in the terrain park, finding the right fit for your style and needs is essential. Here are the most important factors to consider when purchasing snowboard bindings:

Riding Style

Your riding style is the first thing to consider when choosing bindings. Different styles require different features, such as flex, durability, and cushioning.

Freestyle/Park Riders: If you’re spending most of your time in the park, look for bindings with a soft flex that allows for easier tweaking, buttering, and jibbing. A great budget option here is the Season Universal bindings, which offer a playful, forgiving flex without breaking the bank.

All-Mountain Riders: For those who like to ride the entire mountain, a medium flex binding is ideal. These bindings offer the versatility to handle groomers, powder, and even some park laps. A top pick in this category is the Arbor Cypress—designed for all-mountain riders who demand both response and comfort across varying terrain.

Freeride/Big-Mountain Riders: For advanced riders bombing steep lines and seeking precision in every turn, stiff flex bindings offer more responsiveness and control. The Union Falcor is one of the best bindings for big-mountain riders, offering unparalleled responsiveness for hard-charging runs.

Dialing in your snowboard binding stance is critical for riding your best. Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Flex Rating

Bindings come in various flex ratings, typically soft, medium, or stiff. Your binding’s flex should align with your board’s flex and your riding preferences.

Soft Flex: Ideal for beginners or park riders who want more forgiveness and maneuverability. The Season Universal provides a soft flex, making it great for playful park laps or beginner riders.

Medium Flex: Best for all-mountain riders who want a balance of responsiveness and flexibility. Bindings like the Union Force are a great all-around option with a medium-stiff flex, perfect for intermediate and advanced riders looking for versatility.

Stiff Flex: Preferred by freeriders and backcountry adventurers who need precision and stability at high speeds. The Jones Apollo Pro, with its stiff flex, is a perfect example for big-mountain riders needing reliability and control in critical conditions.

Traditional two-strap snowboard bindings still dominate the market, but more step-on options are popping up. Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Strap System

The strap system plays a key role in how secure and comfortable you’ll feel during your ride. There are three main types: traditional two-strap, Step-On systems, and hybrid step-ins.

Traditional Two-Strap Bindings: This is the most common system, offering adjustability and customization. The Union Force bindings use this tried-and-true system, offering tool-free adjustments to tweak fit and feel on the go.

Step-On Systems: For those who value speed and convenience, Burton Step On bindings eliminate straps entirely, letting you click in and ride without fussing with buckles. These are particularly great for riders who don’t want to waste time strapping in.

Hybrid Step-In Systems: If you love the convenience of step-ins but want to use regular snowboard boots, consider a hybrid system like the Nidecker Supermatic. These bindings give you the ease of step-ins while maintaining compatibility with most traditional boots.

High-quality foam footbeds and adjustable baseplates alter the feel and riding style of snowboard bindings. Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Baseplate and Shock Absorption

Your bindings’ baseplate connects you to your board, and its construction influences the board’s flex and the amount of shock you’ll feel. Riders who hit big jumps or ride rough terrain should look for bindings with good shock absorption.

Cushioned Baseplates: If shock absorption is a priority for you, the Nitro Phantom bindings feature a canted footbed, which naturally aligns your knees and legs for a more comfortable stance while offering excellent cushioning for big landings.

Durable Baseplates: For durability and responsiveness, the Union Falcor features a carbon-injected baseplate, providing superior strength without sacrificing flex and comfort. It also has foam bushings coming out either side, ensuring a smooth energy transfer in every direction of the board. 

Snowboard Binding Highbacks

The highback is the vertical plate on the back of the bindings and plays a major role in how much control and support you have over your heelside turns.

Adjustable Highbacks: Look for bindings with adjustable forward lean, allowing you to customize your ride. The Arbor Cypress features a responsive, adjustable highback that offers great support for deep carves and quick heel-edge turns.

High Stiffness for Freeriding: If you’re riding steeper terrain, stiffer highbacks provide better control. The Jones Apollo Pro offers an extremely stiff highback, perfect for riders pushing their limits in the backcountry.

Weight

While heavier bindings can offer more durability, lightweight bindings are often preferred by riders seeking less fatigue, especially during long days on the mountain or in the backcountry.

Lightweight Designs: For riders who value a lightweight setup, the Spark Surge ST is one of the best options for backcountry touring, with its minimal weight ensuring you don’t get weighed down on long ascents.

All-Day Comfort: For an all-mountain setup that won’t feel cumbersome, look for bindings that are lightweight yet durable, offering a comfortable ride over extended sessions.

From aggressive and stiff bindings to surfy and soft options, we tested em all! Photo: Colter Hinchliffe//The Inertia

Price

Snowboard bindings come in a wide range of prices, and it’s important to balance performance with your budget.

Budget Options: If you’re looking to get quality bindings at a lower price, the Season Universal bindings are an excellent choice, offering great performance at a more affordable price point.

Premium Options: On the other end of the spectrum, bindings like the Union Falcor or Jones Apollo Pro come with premium features and materials for riders willing to invest in top-tier performance.

When choosing snowboard bindings, it’s essential to match the features to your riding style, needs, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a backcountry-specific binding like the Spark Surge ST, a high-performance all-mountain setup like the Union Force, or an easy-entry system like the Burton Step On, understanding these key factors will help you make the right choice.

Return To: Top Picks | Comparison Table

Editor’s Note: Don’t miss our guides to the Best Snowboards, Best Women’s Snowboards, and Best Snowboard Boots. For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.

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