Cutting straps: The ultimate guide to fast-entry snowboard bindings

// gear

Words by Alba Pardo

Progress and madness often go hand in hand and product developers and engineers must find the balance between the two. When going to a snowboard shop or browsing through a buyer’s guide, boards usually get most of the attention: they are the ones that make us dream about the next ride, have the graphics we love and give the name to our sport.  Bindings, on the other hand, are far from sexy. They are functional ties to the board and whilst they provide control, they haven’t really been the center of attention for many years. They are the necessary, and rather expensive, evil that most people don’t pay much attention to. However, in the last few years, the polarisation has arrived to the snowboarding community as well, and the argument isn’t park or pow, but rather traditional two-strap bindings or all the variations of the quickies.

Whilst bending down is still required to release your boot from most bindings, with the Step-ons you can go just by putting your foot in, same with the Nidecker Supramatic. Now, there is a new big kid on the blog, and it’s called FASE System, used by brands like 32, Bataleon, Jones and Rome and launching for the 25/26 season. 

Now, what’s comfort, what’s functionality, what’s an improvement, and what’s just a faf. Let’s dive into the Fast-entry bindings universe — designed for those who believe life is too short to waste on strapping in. These systems blend convenience with performance, all while adding a sprinkle of cutting-edge tech. Let’s break down the options in this game-changing world of fast entry.

Burton Step On®: The king of convenience

When Burton launched Step On®, they did more than just shake up the industry — they created a cult following. With no straps or buckles, the system lets riders step in, click down, and charge the mountain.

  • How it works: Compatible boots have built-in connection points at the heel and toe. These snap into the bindings with a satisfying click.
  • Pros: Seamless connection, lightning-fast entry, great board feel.
  • Cons: Only works with Step On®-compatible boots, so no mixing brands. Although now it’s also available with Union and Flux bindings and Burton has opened their patent for other brands to adopt this system.
    Boots wear off a bit quicker as all the pressure that binding would normally endure it’s now for the boot and it’s extra strap to support.
  • Who it’s for: Riders who value speed and simplicity, from groomer warriors to park enthusiasts.

Nidecker Supermatic: The Swiss army knife of bindings

If Step On® is the minimalist hero, the Nidecker Supermatic is the versatile all-rounder. Designed to work with any snowboard boot, this binding combines a rear-entry system with traditional straps for a customizable fit.

  • How it works: Slide your foot in through the reclining highback, which then snaps into place. Adjust the straps for extra precision.
  • Pros: Universal compatibility, hybrid functionality, easy to use.
  • Cons: Slightly bulkier than other systems, heavier than regular bindings and the release lever is on the inner side of the feet.
  • Who it’s for: Riders who want flexibility without committing to a proprietary boot system.

FASE System: The future of fast entry

A new contender is entering the ring: the FASE system. Set to launch in Fall 2025, this technology combines the speed of fast entry with the locked-in feel of traditional straps. Think of it as the Goldilocks of bindings—not too loose, not too tight, but just right.

  • How it works: The FASE system modifies the classic two-strap design to allow for ultra-fast adjustments.
  • Pros: Compatible with any boots, seamless blend of comfort and performance, available in high-end bindings from brands like Bataleon, 32, Jones and Rome. AND! They look like bindings, so must work like bindings.
  • Cons: Not on the market yet — patience is key! And you still need to bend down to secure them.
  • Who it’s for: Everyone.

Flow bindings: The rear-entry pioneer

Flow has been perfecting rear-entry snowboard bindings since the ‘90s. With a reclining highback and large straps, these bindings combine ease of use with high performance.

  • How it works: Kick your heel into the binding, flip the highback up, and lock it in place.
  • Pros: Quick entry, great support, durable design.
  • Cons: Some riders find them a bit heavy or bulky. It has really stirred opinions since their conception.
  • Who it’s for: All-mountain riders who want to keep moving without stopping.

CLEW bindings: Modular innovation or bindings deconstructed?

CLEW is the rebel of the fast-entry binding world. With a focus on modularity, these bindings let you detach the highback and straps, making them travel-friendly and adaptable to various riding styles.

  • How it works: A simple snap-on mechanism lets you lock in the binding’s key components and detach them with ease.
  • Pros: Highly adaptable, easy to pack for travel, works with most boots.
  • Cons: The modular design might not appeal to purists. On other words, they look wack.
  • Who it’s for: Riders who like options and want their gear to grow with them.

Union x Step On®: The collaboration we’ve been waiting for

Union, known for its bombproof bindings, is stepping into the fast-entry game by integrating Burton’s Step On® technology. This crossover is designed for riders who want the best of Union’s construction with the ease of Step On®.

  • How it Works: Similar to Burton’s Step On®, but with Union’s signature materials and durability.
  • Pros: Union’s quality meets Burton’s innovation, sleek design.
  • Cons: Limited compatibility with boots.
  • Who It’s For: Loyal Union fans who’ve been eyeing fast-entry options.

SP Bindings’ FASTEC®: Lightweight and flexible

SP Bindings’ FASTEC® system offers the lightest rear-entry option on the market, proving that you don’t need to sacrifice performance for convenience. With adjustable straps and a reclining highback, these bindings offer the best of both worlds.

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  • How it works: Step in through the highback, which locks into place, while adjustable straps allow fine-tuning.
  • Pros: Featherweight design, great customization, reliable performance.
  • Cons: Not as widely available as other systems.
  • Who it’s For: Freestyle riders and those who value agility.

And then, there is this… Bone Bindings

It’s not really a fast entry system, I think. To be honest, I am not sure what it is, how it works and what or who is it for. But we discovered it at Shops 1st Try this week and it has broken the internet. So it’s worth the share, and I’ll let you judge by yourself. 

So, which one should you choose?

With so many fast-entry bindings available, the best choice depends on your style, boot preference, and where you ride. Whether you’re a park rat who wants speed (hello, Step On®) or an all-mountain explorer who needs versatility (looking at you, Fast System), there’s a binding here for everyone.

It’s fair to say that fast-entry bindings are more than a gimmick—they’re the future. Say goodbye to strapping in on the slopes and hello to more time shredding. After all, isn’t that what snowboarding is really about?

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