How to Find the Right Size Bindings

Finding the right size bindings for snowboarding is essential for maintaining safety, as well as comfort. Bindings keep your feet attached securely to your snowboard to protect you from injury when you hit the slopes. If the bindings are too loose, you are more susceptible to injury since loose bindings allow for too much movement of the foot and ankle. Loose bindings also cause you to detach from your board, potentially causing serious injury. There are several types of bindings, however, this is a basic guide for finding the right fit.

Instructions

    • 1

      Bring your snowboarding boots. Bindings typically come in sizes small, medium and large.

    • 2

      Try the bindings on while wearing your boots. This is essential to finding the perfect fit. Point your toe and step into the binding.

    • 3

      After placing your toe in the binding, slide your heel back against the back of the binding (also known as the heel cup). Make sure that the heel of your boot slides easily into the binding. There should not be excess movement from side to side while your boot is in the binding.

    • 4

      Connect all of the binding's straps to ensure they are snug on your boots. The straps should prevent any movement of your boot, completely securing your foot to your snowboard. If your boot moves, you should try a smaller size binding. Your bindings should be tight on your boot.

    • 5

      Decide which binding style is right for you. If you are a beginner, look for a binding with a higher highback (the piece your heel and calf rests against). The higher and stiffer the highback, the more control you will have over your board. If you are a freestyle rider, look for a binding with a shorter, more flexible highback to allow for better maneuverability during tricks.