splitboard bindings

Learn all about splitboard bindings

Splitboard binding systems have made significant progress in the last decade, becoming lighter, more efficient and easier to use. With the vast increase in the number of suppliers and models, there is now a very large selection, which can make choosing difficult. Here we explain what types of bindings there are, how they work and what you should look out for so that you can find a splitboard binding that works well for your needs .

When comparing splitboard bindings , you can see the differences between the individual models. This should give you a good feeling for which binding is right for you.

What is a splitboard binding?

Since you have to earn the right to go downhill with a splitboard, the bindings must also be able to be used for going uphill. Instead of permanently attaching the bindings like on a normal snowboard, splitboards use adapters in which the binding can be mounted in either uphill or downhill mode. The adapters for going uphill are usually called touring brackets , and those for going downhill are called interfaces . On the touring brackets, only the front part of the binding is hooked onto an axle and can rotate around it so that you can walk with it.

The interface connects the bindings and board for downhill skiing. Depending on the manufacturer, there are different systems, such as “pucks” or “split disks”, which we will discuss below.

Depending on the boots used, bindings can be divided into two categories: hard boot and soft boot bindings. Since our main focus is on having fun on the descent, we have little experience with hard boot systems . These offer clear advantages on the ascent due to their higher lateral stiffness. So far, however, no system has convinced us on the descent, which is why we will concentrate on soft boot systems in the rest of the text.

How do splitboard bindings differ from normal snowboard bindings?

The main difference is the fastening mechanisms for walking and downhill modes described above. But there are a few additional features that are particularly useful when climbing:

• Focus on lightweight materials and straps
• Highbacks can be folded further back for climbing to allow for larger steps
• Climbing aids , small elevations under the heel, relieve the calf muscles in steep terrain

What is the difference between pin bindings and mechanical bindings?

Splitboard binding systems are often divided into two groups: pin bindings and “mechanical” bindings . Since there are big differences within both groups, this classification does not always make sense. But since you will come across it often, here is a short explanation.

Pin bindings use a pin to attach the binding. This is also the principle used in the first splitboard bindings, which is why pin bindings often have the reputation of being out of date. However, as these bindings have also been developed a lot, this cannot be generalized. The fact is that the conversion takes a little longer and requires a little more “tact” when wearing gloves than with most other systems. With a little practice, however, this can also be done quickly with pin bindings, so it makes no noticeable difference on the mountain. The big advantage of these bindings is that they do not have any moving parts, which makes them cheaper and more robust .

The other group are the mechanical bindings . Mechanical because the bindings are attached with moving parts . The conversion is quicker here than with the pin systems. Since the construction of the bindings is a bit more complex, they are a bit more expensive and require more maintenance.

What accessories are available for splitboard bindings and what do I need?

Interface & tour adapter:

As already mentioned, an interface and touring adapter are required for attachment in walking and downhill mode . These are already included with most bindings. However, with some systems the interface must be purchased separately, such as the pucks on the Spark bindings .

Attention: Interfaces and touring adapters from different manufacturers are (with a few exceptions) not interchangeable . Exceptions are, for example, pucks for Voilé and Spark systems, which are mutually compatible. The binding systems of large snowboard companies should also be mentioned. These are usually not in-house developments, but simply combine the mounting system and baseplate of the splitboard specialists with their own straps, highbacks and logos. Nitro and Burton splitboard bindings are based on the Spark system, K2 bindings are relabeled Voilé bindings and are therefore of course compatible with the respective interfaces and adapters.

Crampons

Crampons are used primarily in hard snow or on generally harder ascents. In these conditions, the steel edges or splitboard skins can reach their limits and do not always provide the necessary lateral or rear support. Crampons are metal claws that are attached to the binding. These claws can get caught in the hard snow and thus provide the necessary grip again.

Sooner or later, most splitboarders will need crampons, so we usually recommend getting them right at the start. Splitboard beginners in particular like to use them at the beginning, as they provide more lateral support and safety when traversing.

There are crampons in different widths. You should therefore make sure that the width of the crampons matches your board, otherwise the board could be damaged and the crampons will not function properly. In our shop you will always find a table for the crampons that shows you which width is needed for which board .

Fixation at the upper end of the highback for traverses

In order to obtain a better edge hold in traverses , there are some solutions on how to increase the lateral stiffness in climbing mode .

Spark, Voilé and Union bindings have recesses in the highback through which a strap or Velcro can be pulled to secure the boot to the highback. Karakoram has the Flex-Lock system . This always stays on the binding and can be activated by flipping a lever.

Heel fixations

With heel fixations, the bindings can be fixed to the heel in walking mode. This has the advantage that you can use them to ski short sections or move along flat paths in skating style. In our opinion, these fixations are not necessary and, in our experience, are rarely used. You quickly feel safe on short descents, even without previous telemark experience.

What should I pay attention to when buying a splitboard binding?

Before buying a splitboard binding, you should ask yourself the following questions:

• What size do you need? It is of course important that the binding fits your boat size, otherwise your toes could hit the ground when climbing or your boat could float in the binding. You will therefore always find a table with the size information on our product pages.
• What type of bindings do you prefer? More flexible freestyle bindings or stiffer freeride bindings?
• What do your tours look like ? Are they always long tours where you have to change bindings once at the top? Or do you have several short climbs and descents so that you have to change bindings more often? For long tours it doesn't really matter if you need 20 seconds longer to change bindings at the top, but if you have to change bindings more often it can be a bit annoying.
• What is your budget ? You should also think carefully about what accessories you need, such as crampons or solid board adapters.
• Do you want to use your binding on a normal board ? That would mean choosing a binding that already comes with solid adapters.