The term “back entry snowboard binding” refers to the technique in which users move their feet from the back. You just draw the high back rearward while putting your snow boots into the binding.
In contrast to flow or conventional bindings, which call for placing your boot within the binding before fastening some of the straps, this one allows you to quickly and easily attach your boot. The back entry bindings, as can be seen, provide easy in and out procedures.
Although there are significant variations across models and manufacturers, rear entry bindings generally function similarly. Your foot can enter the binding by sliding through an opening in the high back. After that, the high back swings back up and is secured. As a result, you may save time by not having to adjust the toe and ankle straps every time you buckle up.
It is simple to utilize a snowboard binding of decent quality. A snowboarder has a robust, excellent, durable quality and can swiftly enter and exit their snowboard binding.
Modern rear entry bindings feature a variety of features and technology to improve performance and comfort. Quick lacing systems allow for easy and secure lacing, while flex adjustments allow for a customized fit and flex.
Many rear entry bindings also feature shock absorption technology to reduce impact and vibration, as well as adjustable heel and toe ramps for improved power transfer. Additionally, many rear entry bindings feature a canting system to improve alignment and reduce fatigue.
Rear entrance bindings are designed so that, after they are properly adjusted to fit your boot, all you have to do to put your foot in or out is open or shut the high back. By not having to tighten the toe and ankle straps seen in traditional strap bindings, you may save time. Additionally, it permits you to board the lift without stopping and to buckle up immediately, but doing so does require some balance.
7 Best Back Entry Snowboard Bindings In 2024
Based on customer reviews, ratings, recommendations, and overall performance, we have listed the top 7 best back-entry bindings that will capture all your needs and satisfaction in this review.
Entry Snowboard Bindings | Preview | Price |
---|---|---|
The Union Force | Check Price | |
The Flow Nexus | Check Price | |
The Flow Fenix | Check Price | |
The Flow NX2 Fusion | Check Price | |
The Flow NX2 Hybrid | Check Price | |
The Flow Juno Fusion | Check Price | |
The Salomon Halogram | Check Price |
Also read: Best Wide Snowboards
1 . The Union Force – Best Overall
For someone who rides all over the mountain and can’t afford to have their bindings fail them, this is a superb binding. They come in bright, consistent colors. Like all Union bindings, these contain a large, comfortable ankle strap that is tool-free and adjustable, allowing you to do so even while wearing gloves.
When riding the Forces, you may quickly and easily adjust the forward lean, even when wearing thick mittens or gloves. They feature robust buckles that can withstand a lot of wear since they are constructed of magnesium rather than aluminum. Finally, the magnesium buckles are half as heavy as aluminum while having four times the strength.
The dual-density injection bushings are paired with the sturdy Stage IV base to assist the board bend, absorb impacts, and not mask its actual flex. The base is covered by a lifetime guarantee.
Extruded aluminum heel cups, which the Force employs, maintain their original shape no matter how much abuse you subject your bindings to. In my riding experience, Union rates them highly for all types of terrain, and they are correct.
They function well everywhere, with moderate flex to allow for tweaking and pressing out in the park, but they can still withstand more aggressive riding.
Specs
- Base Stage IV with Aluminum Buckles
- Numerous Zone Highbacks
- Baseplate Stiffness: 6/10 and Highback Stiffness: 6/10
- Extruded Aluminum Heelcup with Multi-Density Thermoformed EVA Bushings
- Sonicfuse Straps with Force Highback
Why Is This The Best Rear-Entry Snowboard For Bindings In 2024?
This is the greatest rear-entry snowboard because it is made to withstand all circumstances that may arise. These bindings have earned their place as one of the top all-mountain bindings for many years and have lived up to their stellar reputation.
The toughest heel cups in the market boost heel grip and minimize drag thanks to their bomb-proof construction. This guarantees that none of that crucial force will be lost during your turns so that you can relax.
These bindings are made to last thanks to the upgraded Duraflex St highback and baseplate, magnesium buckles, and Grade 8.8 hardware.
Related: Best Ski Boots For Wide Calves
2 . The Flow Nexus – Runner-Up
The flow Nexus, which has the softest flex in our lineup, is the ideal option for beginner to intermediate riders who want to enjoy Flow’s renowned speed entry system in a more laid-back setting.
You can quickly get ready to ride thanks to the ComfortFit Fusion strap, a one-piece design that fits with our high reclining back. Additionally, it distributes support across the entirety of your foot. It doesn’t require running as tight as conventional two-strap versions, which removes pressure places and enables you to ride all day continuously.
Newcomers and park rats will both value the Nexus’s glass-filled nylon highback, which fosters creativity while ever making you feel like you’re managing the board on a knife edge. These bindings are ideal for people who snowboard for enjoyment and want to keep doing it with assurance, from lively beginners to upper-intermediate riders.
More control, a reliable fit, and a comfortable ride are all provided by the Fusion PowerStraps and locking slap ratchet, which covers a significant portion of the foot. The softest in Flow’s lineup, the medium flex gives for all-terrain adaptability.
The axis series baseplate adds balance to your ride and makes these snowboard bindings incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Riders claim that the Flow Nexus bindings may be fairly delicate and may work better for lighter individuals (the cable can break unexpectedly, and the screws can come off if too much pressure is applied to the bindings).
One of Flow’s signature characteristics is the completely reclined high back, and the cost is also reasonable. These entry-level bindings come in fairly traditional black-and-white versions and are pretty simple to install.
Specs
- Glass-filled Nylon, Asym Rockered Axis-Series baseplate
- Glass-filled nylon and Asym Axis-Series UniBack
- Fusion: Powerstrap Locking Slap Ratchets (LSR) and ComfortFit Ratchet-Buckles
- Tech Information EVA Multi-Disk Nylon Heel Cushioning 4hp plus 3hp plus channel
- 6 out of 10
- Rating: 5/10
- Toe-Heel 4/10 Stiffness
- Lateral Flexibility: 4/10
- Medium
- 3D, 2×4, 4×4, and channel compatibility
- Intermediate level
Also read: Best Ski Boots for Narrow Feet – For Women and Men
3 . The Flow Fenix – Premium Pick
The Fenix makes our list as a fantastic speed-entry (hybrid) binding choice since Flow is the industry leader in rear-entry binding systems thus far. The foot strap may move slightly up when the highback is opened, thanks to the active strap technology used by Flow, allowing the foot to glide in without having to untie the straps.
This rear entry binding is an excellent all-mountain binding for rounding the mountain and tackling those challenging, quick runs. The structure is supportive and responsive when you need it since it is constructed of glass-filled nylon.
Because of the firm flex, it will be ideal for charging quickly and forcefully. You’ll be able to use the energy you expended during carvings fully. A redesigned, lightweight Exo frame power strap is included with the flow Fenix.
It’s rather lovely because, in case you’re in the mood for nostalgia, you can still use the straps as you would a conventional binding. A high-tensile steel cable and brand-new lightweight Fusion ExoFrame PowerStraps work together to optimally send power to the board for better reaction and control.
Additionally, the baseplate of these bindings is asymmetrical and has a small rocker, allowing for a more natural medium flex and user-friendliness.
Specs
- Hybrid and Fusion models are available.
- Comfort 7/10
- Responsiveness 6/10
- Toe-Heel Stiffness 5/10
- Lateral Stiffness 5/10
- Canted Bankbed: 2.5 degrees
- Medium flex rating
- Black, red-orange-pistol, and green color schemes
- Baseplate: AXIS-Series
- Highback: Featuring Nylon Asym Active Strap Technology in the series of AXIS UniBack Straps
- Buckles: Slap Ratchet
- Additional Features: Compatible with Offset MultiDisk 3HP, 4HP, and Channel.
4 . The Flow NX2 Fusion – Best Budget
The unique aluminum alloy structure of the NX2 Fusion Bindings gives them a great level of responsiveness, low weight, and sufficient rigidity to keep you moving. Due to its aluminum structure and carbon support panel, the baseplate and highback are incredibly quick and offer excellent control.
Thanks to the baseplate structure, you are firmly attached to the board below. The board is simple to move wherever you wish. The board can glide more quickly and with greater control thanks to the rounded edges. The support for better control is also increased by the high back.
These bindings also include a rear-entry design for quick strapping. For rapid and effective control and comfortable snowboarding, they also have active strap technology and Fusion Powerstraps that evenly distribute the pressure.
It also incorporates locking slap ratchet buckles that make it comfortable to secure the board to your feet. Thanks to the canted footbeds and natural placement, your entire snowboarding session is comfortable, and you don’t feel exhausted afterward.
They also contain N-Gel to cushion your feet and EVA to absorb vibrations, which further improves the situation. These bindings provide the finest connection between your feet and the board overall, regardless of the type of snowboarding terrain you choose.
Specs
- For customized strength, support, and flex where you need it, a modular highback with distinct lower and upper zones are available.
- A soft flex is available for a vibrant, enjoyable feel, and the lower zone automatically activates Active Strap Technology.
- The Fusion ExoKush strap’s expanded-EVA bottom layer offers the ideal balance of comfort, control, and lightweight while locking together with the two ExoSpines for uncompromising performance and comfort.
- Metal LSR Buckles
- Rockered Baseplates made of aluminum alloy.
- Active Strap innovation.
- EVA footbeds with dual densities, 2.5° canting
- Adjustable toe ramps improve fit and provide the user with excellent support and energy transmission.
- Based N-Gel.
- Support Panel for ATM 8
- Reduces the headache of having to alter your bindings
5 . The Flow NX2 Hybrid
Seasoned snowboarders have chosen the Flow NX2 Hybrid as their preferred model this season. Aluminum alloy makes up the baseplate of the bindings. It responds to even the smallest movement since it is rigid and highly sensitive.
Because it provides them more control over the entire process, experienced snowboarders prefer it. The bindings also have an N-gel cushioning layer connected to them. This layer filters out extra vibrations from uneven terrain for a smoother ride.
Bonus points go to Flow for devising a strategy to guarantee comfort without compromising the bindings’ rigidity. The asymmetrical uni-back provides additional security and strength. The uni-back is strengthened with carbon additions to increase its strength. Your boots stay firmly in place since it fits snugly over them.
These bindings have a unique active strap technology that reduces resistance and makes it simple to take them off rapidly. The locking slap ratchet, on the other hand, facilitates entrance and secures the chosen foot strap tightness.
Specs
- Baseplate made of aluminum alloy.
- Cushioning N-Gel.
- Uni-back with an asymmetry.
- Active Strap Engineering.
- Ratchet Slap Locking.
6 . The Flow Juno Fusion
The Juno bindings are a great option for novice snowboarders who are still getting the hang of the sport. Since they offer both excellent performance and the best possible comfort, they are specifically created with a mild flex rating for beginners.
These bindings have an unusually broad nylon baseplate than other, more standard bindings to offer more stability. Additionally, the baseplate contains cable hooks for power transfer that are evenly distributed.
Additionally, the Juno bindings have a high back that reclines and is coupled to a 3D power strap. The strap automatically tightens when the high back is closed, providing swift foot security. In this manner, you always maintain balance when snowboarding. These bindings have an entrance that is designed in the rear-entry binding fashion.
Specs
- A soft flex rating.
- Baseplate made of nylon.
- Highback while reclining
- A 3-D power strap.
- Binders with a rear entrance.
7 . The Salomon Halogram
Salomon innovated a new bindings system called shadow fit to breathe fresh vitality into their boarding equipment. The Salomon Hologram bindings are an excellent freestyle binding for riders with intermediate skills and up who also like freeriding. New support technologies are included in the Shadow fit system to provide users with both the rigidity and responsiveness needed for hard-charging freeriding and the soft freestyle profile.
The heel cup is one of the most flexible and one of the softest available. Your heel is encircled, perfectly conveying the motions. The EVA toe strap performs the same function, gently pressing your foot into the cup with help from a Kevlar wire that acts like a vice.
The straps around the ankles are cozy and secure. It hits the sweet spot for intermediate riders who don’t have the money or the time to invest in many boards and bindings thanks to its robust composite baseplate and asymmetric high back that twists with your leg but also pushes back.
Specs
- Baseplate for ShadowFit.
- Quickwire made of Kevlar
- Adjustable 45% Composite Toe Ramp
- System of Integrated Mounting.
- Based Power Hook for Optivibe.
- Highback Shadow Straps with Holograms.
- Strap for Locked-Up Toes
- Micro Max Strap Modifications
- Canted Footbeds Flex score of three out of five
How To Choose The Best Rear-Entry Snowboard Bindings?
Snowboard bindings are available in a variety of designs and configurations. Step-in, step-on, and speed-entry (hybrid) systems all have advantages and disadvantages that must be considered.
It might be a bit daunting to choose the finest pair because there are so many crucial elements to take into account, including flex, durability, riding style, and centering technique. You may already be aware of how much you enjoy or desire rear-entry binds. In which case, feel free to skip this.
Rear-entry, however, can be a possibility to take into account if you’re unsure of what type of bindings is ideal for you. Rear-entry bindings’ greatest benefit is that it is simple to use them. Riders who are just starting or who have had trouble with other types of bindings may find this intriguing.
The greatest snowboard bindings will have a deep romantic connection with the snowboard they are designed for. Soft bindings work well with a soft flex board to create a more natural riding experience. A hardboard pairs well with hard bindings. The following are things to consider:
Flex
Binding flex varies significantly between brands and models, just like it does with snowboards and boots. Flexibility is often rated from 1 (very soft) to 10 (extremely stiff). Flex selection involves personal taste, but it primarily relies on anticipated riding type.
Bindings designed for freestyle and all-mountain skiing often have a gentler flex. For novices, this implies they will be more accommodating and simpler to turn with. Additionally, having more flexibility when performing feats in more complex freestyle park riding would be beneficial.
Snowboard Compatibility
Checking to see if your bindings work with your snowboard is another crucial aspect you don’t want to overlook. Here, you need to ensure that your binding discs are compatible with the insert system, which are the holes on the front and rear of your snowboard.
Quality And Maintenance
When evaluating the quality of any piece of equipment, going with a reputable brand is typically the best option. Even though purchasing from a less reputable vendor could first appear more cost-effective, you’ll undoubtedly regret it when your bindings break down.
The causes of this are straightforward. When a business earns significantly less than its competitors, it will buy its supplies from a less reputable and more affordable supplier. This is one of the factors that help them offer their goods at such a low price, among others.
While there are a few situations where you might spend more for the brand name, buying equipment essential to your safety is typically not one of them. After all, a sudden binding failure while traveling at high speeds down a mountain is most definitely not ideal.
It is advised to stay with the binding alternatives from the big brands at various pricing points. In addition to quality, maintenance should be taken into account. The majority of businesses will be quite knowledgeable about maintaining more widely used brands.
A crucial factor in this is the accessibility of repair components. A binding failure will often occur amid a bike day. The best course of action, in this case, is to return to the field after making a short repair in a local store.
While most stores may have extras of big brand-name bindings on hand, using a lesser-known binding brand will typically need buying a new part. Either your day is over in this situation, or you’re switching to a worn-out rental setup.
Shock Absorption
A high-quality snowboard binding can absorb shock, which is an additional benefit. It is a great advantage for snowboarders who enjoy incorporating freestyle riding styles. For doing “simple” leaps or feats, shock absorption is necessary, even for a beginner.
A soft, gel-padded snowboard binding with shock absorption provides a more comfortable sensation than a harsh, unpadded plastic binding.
Ability And Boot Support
When a snowboarder is on the slope performing tricks like modifying grabs and butter, the better ability is about the snowboard binding flex functioning in concert with the snowboard. Binding with a gentler flex works nicely in this situation.
However, other aspects of bindings contribute to enhanced mobility as well. Superior-grade snowboard bindings have better buttering capabilities. The support of a snowboard boot is another advantage of high-quality snowboard bindings. Snowboard bindings and boots work together to keep the feet secure. Snowboard boots are crucial for this.
Durability
You should get a binding made to last, just as you would with any other snowboarding accessory. Your bindings will endure a lot of wear and tear due to the challenging circumstances they will encounter in the snow.
That becomes much more crucial to take into account if you get out frequently Look for high-quality materials that can survive harsh weather conditions without losing their toughness or performance, such as polycarbonate plastics. This will enable you to snowboard to the best of your ability and ultimately save you money.
Mountain Options
Every pair of snowboard bindings has a baseplate component that the rider may use to customize the stance and angle of the bindings to their liking. While the majority of snowboard manufacturers use universal mounting patterns with blot holes that measure 2 cm by 4 cm or 4 cm by 4 cm, Burton uses their own exclusive designs.
A diamond-shaped 3D Bolt Pattern or the Burton Channel may be seen on Burton snowboards. Any Burton binding will function with the Channel system, but only a limited number of carefully chosen bindings from other well-known brands.
Comfort
Every snowboarder wants to be comfortable when skiing. You want a comfortable snowboard binding regardless of your riding style, whether you seek freestyle/park bindings or are a novice or professional.
Moreover, no one likes pressure spots when riding. Thus, the straps of the bindings need to conform to the snowboard boots. If the footbeds on the snowboard binding are canted, they softly incline the feet inward. You may ride more comfortably and with less effort by bringing the hips, ankles, and knees into alignment.
Are There Any Safety Or Durability Concerns?
I think it’s best to choose products made of durable materials that can assist you in high-performance applications while still being flexible and light enough to facilitate simple transit and safe usage in the case of an accident.
You should also take into account comfort, convenience, and simplicity of usage, particularly the ability to put on and take off the boot. Your binds need to be secure for safety. These concerns should not be forgotten when choosing a rear binding:
- The product must be made of premium materials and strong enough to withstand harsh circumstances. Don’t buy a product if it prevents you from staying fastened to the board while it is in use.
- The product has to be quite lightweight to make transporting simple. Snowboarders often carry their boards and bindings a considerable distance to and from the mountain. To improve moving comfort when crossing terrain, we would want to keep the weight of the bindings to a minimum.
- All user types, regardless of age or ability level, must be able to utilize the product.
- It should be simple to use when wearing gloves.
- Operates in chilly conditions (durable).
- Cost effective
- Ease of fastening
What Are The Different Types Of Bindings?
Speedy entry bindings and rear entry bindings are synonyms. These highly customized bindings aim to combine the support and control of conventional strap binding with the speed and simplicity associated with strap-in bindings.
The most well-known producers of rear-entry bindings are snowboard companies like Flow. Due to their separate toe and ankle straps, rear entrance bindings first resemble strap-in bindings.
The most popular kind of snowboard binding is strap-ins. Two straps make up each one; one is for the ankle, and the other is for the toes. Because a snowboarder may change the pressure on each one independently, this binding is optimum.
The high back is set in strap-in bindings and cannot be slid up or down, but the rider may change the angle. Because the snowboarder must first sit down to tighten the straps, strap-in bindings are somewhat sluggish. But the most intriguing feature of rear entrance bindings is their ability to fold and hinge, making them easy to enter into snowboard bindings.
Rear entrance bindings have a few disadvantages, including the fact that they are harder to adjust than strap-in bindings and offer less fit and support overall. In contrast to strap-in bindings, rear-entry bindings feature unlocked highbacks that allow the feet to glide through. With no need for further strap adjustments, this enables simple entry and departure while standing.
Here is our compilation of the best rear entry snowboard bindings with the best overall pick, a runner-up, a budget pick, a premium pick, and three additional strong picks based on current market trends and customer feedback.
Essential Tips For Maintaining Rear-Entry Snowboard Bindings
To ensure that our back entry snowboards have optimal performance and longevity, it is vital to do the following:
- Every time you go snowboarding, check your bindings for worn-out or broken anti-friction devices, missing components, or loose or protruding screws. Make sure the brake arms may move freely.
- Clear the boots and bindings of all ice, snow, and debris before stepping into the bindings. Bindings should not be transported on vehicle top carriers without being shielded from dirt, filth, and other contaminants.
- Before installing or remounting bindings, dispense a small amount of adhesive into the screw holes. When dried, it forms a watertight barrier, won’t prevent you from removing a binding screw again, and won’t hurt any ski core. Aluminum honeycomb cores are the lone exception, and they need epoxy and a syringe.
- After each season, some people recommend lowering the release settings on bindings to give the binding springs a break. It doesn’t harm to loosen the springs, especially if they are typically set towards the top of their adjustment range, even though most current bindings are made to work consistently season after season without adjusting settings. Just be careful to place them back in the proper position and have a qualified technician inspect them at a ski shop before using them the next season.
- Understand your DIN – The DIN scale assigns a numerical value to the release tension of a ski binding. When skiers encounter problems, a binding set to DIN number 1 will release easily. If a binding is set to DIN number 15 (a setting for racing), it won’t release until an extremely strong force is applied.
- Only a trained ski shop technician should choose and set your binding’s DIN setting. An appropriate setting takes into account factors including age, sex, body weight, skiing skill, and prior injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Notable Differences In The Compatibility Of These Bindings With Different Snowboard Brands Or Models?
There are notable differences in the compatibility of rear-entry snowboard bindings with different snowboard brands or models. Different brands and models of snowboards may require different mounting systems, so it is important to check the compatibility of the bindings with the snowboard before purchasing.
Additionally, some bindings may be designed to fit specific snowboard models or brands, so it is important to check the compatibility before making a purchase.
Are There Any Notable Differences In The Warranty Or Customer Support Offered By The Top Brands For Their Rear Entry Bindings?
What Are The Most Common Types Of Terrain Or Riding Styles?
Conclusion
If you are reading this article, then you are privy to privileged information that will guide you in selecting the best rear-entry snowboard bindings. Given all the criteria, your personal need should be the first consideration!
However, one of the criteria by which we may assess a snowboard binding’s superior quality is its capacity to be adjusted. More movable snowboard bindings make it simple to fit boots.
Proper fit and adjustment of ski and snowboard equipment is essential for optimal performance and safety on the slopes. Bindings should be adjusted to the correct DIN setting for the skier or snowboarder’s weight and ability level.
You have just read about some of the top rear-entry snowboard bindings available. Additionally, you now understand why there are superior to other models or types. These items are pretty helpful if you want to enjoy the activity fully, but they are not inexpensive. While all of these bindings function admirably, several stand out for having extra stiffness or comfort.
With its massive features that one cannot afford to ignore, The Union Force stood out as the best among our top 7 best rear-entry snowboard bindings. There are wonderful features offered by others as well.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient way to hit the slopes, try out one of the top 7 rear entry bindings and experience the convenience and performance benefits for yourself. With the right fit and adjustment, you’ll be ready to take on the slopes in no time! I wish you luck as you choose your favorite bindings!