Snowboard bindings are an essential part of your kit, and can make or break a day on the hill. Why? As the tool that transfers your inputs to the board, they’re the conduit from what you’re trying to do and what the board does. But not all models are created equal.
While two-strap, manually fastened bindings are the standard, automated models continue gaining ground. It’s easy to understand why. That removes the laborious process of sitting down, ratcheting down straps, and making tension adjustments.
For winter 25/26, innovations abound, with some mixing old and new, and others using high-end materials to spice up the ride. After perusing this season’s offerings, here are the bindings I’m most excited about this season.
Jones Mercury FASE bindings
Price: $359.95
Since the 1980s, two-strap, manually adjustable bindings have been the norm. So while automated systems gain popularity, many riders want the traditional feeling of their lifelong setup. The new FASE Fast Entry System bindings perfectly blend old and new. How?
The FASE system uses a reclining AutoBack highback, which lets the boot easily slide underneath the straps before the rider’s weight automatically closes it. The Faststrap ankle strap stays buckled, and once the boot slips under, the rider can quickly tighten it for perfect tension. Lastly, the Locked-in toe strap is a “set it and forget it” solution, requiring no adjustment while on the mountain.
While several manufacturers have licensed FASE technology this season, my favorite is the Jones Mercury for powerful freeriding.
Why we like it: A design that preserves the classic two-strap sensation with easier ingress/egress. A simple mechanism that isn’t overly heavy and backed by seven years of development.
Who it’s for: Snowboarders who love traditional bindings but want to breeze through the day, instead of sitting down and strapping in. Appropriate for all skill levels.
Burton x FRAGMENT Step-On Genesis EST
Price: $419.95
Burton’s Step-On system allows for click-in and go convenience, while also increasing edge-to-edge response. While the company offers several Step-On models, my favorite is the Genesis for its super-minimal styling, deep cushioning, and versatility. This year, Burton collaborated with Japanese style master Hiroshi Fujiwara for a limited edition model, featuring a subtle, stealthy latticework graphic.
Unlike the other bindings in this article, the Step-On system forgoes straps entirely, instead relying on three connection points: one at the heel and one on either side of the foot. As the name says, the system’s a simple step-on and go experience, with a small latch release mechanism. These bindings are only compatible with boards that use “The Channel” mounting system.
What we like: Super-convenient and high-performance, with a dose of FRAGMENT style.
Who it’s for: All levels of snowboarders who want the ease of stepping on, riding, and then a quick click-out. Also good for aggressive, carving-style riders who want maximum edge-to-edge performance.
Union Source Pro
Price: $699.99
This is a traditional two-strap binding for experts seeking precision and control in demanding terrain. Key to that is its forged carbon highback, reduced baseplate height, and Direct Connect System.
Union tuned the flex via a two-piece baseplate, in contrast to a traditional single-piece design. The Duraflex CB Halo Baseplate Frame is the lightest baseplate the company’s ever made, and is the anchor point for straps, bushings, and the heelcup. The inner Forged Carbon DCS Baseplate Core is all about power transfer, while being 10% lower to the board, for a connected feel.
Union also debuts its Direct Connect System, which eliminates traditional mounting disks and provides a more direct power route to the snowboard. Using only two screws, the system also reduces weight.
What we like: Innovative two-piece baseplate, forged carbon highback, Direct Connect System for improved power transfer.
Who it’s for: Advanced snowboarders looking to excel everywhere on the mountain. Also good for “gearhead” types who enjoy the latest in materials and innovation.
Nidecker Supermatic Carbon
Price: $529.95
The Supermatic uses a convertible top-like mechanism that allows convenient entry and exit, while preserving the feel of classic two-strap bindings. Though the design debuted a few years ago, the company ups the ante this season with a carbon version.
Details include a carbon-infused baseplate (30% carbon, 70% nylon), super-light, asymmetric Carbon S Ultraback, next-gen LSR 2.0 ratchets, and a plush Exo-Cush Pro S ankle strap. Like a Formula 1 chassis, it’s a stiff, energetic setup made for precision.
What we like: Convenient experience blended with a two-strap setup. Smooth mechanism allows a smoother experience across the mountain. High-end carbon construction blends performance with ease of use.
Who it’s for: Intermediate to advanced riders who want a top-of-the-line product that lessens fatigue.
Flux XV MF-07
I like bindings that go all-out in materials and performance, so when I saw the Flux VX MF-07, I had to include it. The Japanese company used extensive carbon fiber and even titanium screws in the binding, and a thickened footbed for easier drops.
Flux made the W-Props highback with a Super Carbon Blend, including dual rods to improve torsional performance. The Super Carbon Blend baseplate relays every input to the board, and a 4mm higher Boost FootOn footbed absorbs chatter and reduces toe drag.
What we like: Carbon and titanium build, with a thicker footbed for vibration absorption.
Who it’s for: Advanced to expert riders who want lightning response, impact cushioning, and high-end materials.
Every turn starts here
A snowboard and bindings are like the concept of yin-yang. Each flows with the other, and functions in harmony. A good board with substandard bindings can’t perform to its potential, and excellent bindings on an inferior board can’t translate your inputs into on-hill performance. I chose these bindings for their innovation, convenience, and style. So, which should you choose?
Analyze your skill level and the type of riding you do, and how important convenience is to your days on the mountain. It’s an easy task. Then, consider whether you need carbon fiber response or the design prowess of a Japanese icon. Either way, you’ll be set for days of progression.
