Method Mag 20.2 - Bindings Buyers Guide

BOOTS AND BINDINGS

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 113

’19/’20

01.11.2019 14:47

This guide consists of two collections of things: 1. Boots - These are much better for snowboarding in than your regular shoes. They’re also much warmer. Some of the boots featured in here look a bit like shoes though, which is good news if you’re stressing about ruining your skateboarder look. We’ve got other boots in here that don’t look like shoes at all, so either way we’ve got you covered.

2. Bindings - It is possible to ride a snowboard without bindings, but we wouldn’t recommend it. A snowboard without bindings is hard to control, and not particularly fun. You can go much faster when you’re bound to the board, and you can turn, too. Do yourself a favour, buy some bindings.

(Ed. A pow surfer is not the same thing as a snowboard. Those things are much more fun without bindings.)

BOOTS AND BINDINGS ’19/’20

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 114

01.11.2019 14:47

COVER PHOTO CREDITS: PHOTO: CYRIL MÃœLLER RIDER: EIKI HELGASON

RIDER: KNUT ELIASSEN PHOTO: MARKUS ROHRBACHER

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 115

03.11.2019 20:56

burton.com

* model

MEN’S BURTON ION BOA®

Featuring Boa® Focus lacing, the Ion is legendary for its stacked tech package upgraded with our Life Liner for lightweight comfort and rebound. The feature list includes AutoCANT EST® soles for natural body alignment and superior board feel, DRYRIDE Heat Cycle™ for enhanced warmth and moisture wicking, and ReBounce tech that both reflects body heat and cushions consistently in freezing conditions.

* model

MEN’S STEPON® SWATH

This is snowboarding’s most intuitive boot-to-binding connection. Pair your Swath Step On Boot with Men’s Step On bindings for unprecedented performance and simplicity. Three connection points - two by the toe and one at the heel - deliver unmatched security and board control. Universally compatible with all current snowboard mounting systems, including 4x4, 3D®, and The Channel®.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 116

01.11.2019 14:47

dcshoes.com

* model

SHUKSAN

The Shuksan boot is an athletic-inspired beast of comfort, style and support. The dual Boa H3 coilers add endless adjustability while the new Carbitex paneling ensures it’s lightweight with long lasting durability. Treat your little piggies to some OUT OF THE BOX COMFORT with the new DC Shuksan.

* model

MUTINY

With the styling and comfort of the Mutiny, you could say it’s basically a skate shoe for snowboarding. The simplicity of traditional lacing backed by the locked-down heel hold of integrated Locking Leverage and internal ankle harness makes this boot a freestyle staple and the yin to your yang.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 117

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:47

deeluxe.com

* model

ID BLOODLINE

Since its introduction almost 15 years ago the ID has been a team favorite and one of our best-selling boots.

Not surprising really, if you consider that this medium soft boot features our Pro Flex Construction for the perfect blend of flex and stability.

This means the ID is soft enough for presses on rails and tweaking grabs but still gives you the necessary support to stomp tricks on big jumps or to ride fast.

* model

ID LARA

The ID Lara is the perfect park boot for all the ladies out there. Its medium flex provides enough support for landing your tricks on big jumps while it’s still playful enough to have fun in the jib park. Thanks to a construction based around a softer shell, it offers an unrivaled fit and the perfect blend of comfort and performance.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 118

01.11.2019 14:47

bentmetal.com

* model

HOLGATE

Simply put, the K2 Holgate was built for the riders that are tough on their gear and demand response when they are ready to charge. In order to welcome the Holgate to the family, we packed it full of an endless list of features; Intuition® SpaceHeater™ liner, BOA® Conda™ heel retention system, Endo™ 2.0, and a beefy Vibram® V4 outsole.

* model

MAYSIS

Known and loved for its fit and ease of use, the K2 Maysis is loaded with a feature set well above its competition. The Maysis features an articulating cuff that is paired with K2’s Endo™ 2.0 construction to eliminate shell distortion while retaining support and stability. Internally, an Intuition® Control Foam liner works with our BOA® CondaTM for unrivaled fit and on the fly adjustability.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 119

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:47

nitrousa.com

* model

CAPITAL

Honestly the best boot we have ever built! from the biggest jumps in the park, dropping into “no fall zone�

AK lines, to exploring the unbeaten path in splitboard mode, the new upgrades on the 19/20 Nitro Capital snowboard boot will provide the fit, response, and performance you have always dreamed of.

* model

TEAM

Team-tested and snowboarder-proven performance year after year, the Nitro Team is considered to be the most versatile snowboard boot on the market, by snowboarders of all shapes and sizes, and this year we have stayed true to the core values of comfort and versatility. Backed by riders from Marcus Kleveland to Austin Smith!

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 120

01.11.2019 14:47

northwavesnow.com

* model

DECADE

After 30 years in the industry, some of our designers and testers have naturally grown grey hairs. Regardless, the “Northwave Decade” shows no signs of aging.

Its new low profile stamina sole offers even more board feel.

The TF3 liner and our best speed lacing system make it a quick and comfy choice. Our team’s favorite boot.

3 decades of development and none of life’s baggage.. that’s the “Northwave DECADE”

* model

DOMAIN

An aggressive, extremely responsive boot with all of the comfort. The double crossbow sole offers additional shock absorption for big impacts, Rubber toe and heal capping for extra durability, new bio-mapped A-symetrical tongue giving you a perfect match to the liner, new neoprene spats around the base of the tongue helping keep your foot warm and dry all day long.

Think Ferrari but with beanbags seats…

That’s the Northwave Domain.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 121

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:47

ridesnowboards.com

* model

INSANO

Get this boot. Stiffer than a 12 year old boy who stole his mom’s Vicotria’s Secret catalog, more aggressive than a frat boy hopped up on Red Bull and Jaeger, more responsive than the Ride Snowboards customer service department. This boot just plain kicks ass.

* model

SAGE

This was my second pair of snowboarding boots and I’ve used them all season. I always struggled to get boots tight enough and stopping them loosening up run after run.

The boa system makes these incredibly easy to tighten!

They’re just great. Easy to get in and out of, secure, and ride great - Customer service statement, more words needed?

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 122

01.11.2019 14:48

romesnowboards.com

* model

LIBERTINE

The #1 après boot as voted by everyone that knows it’s fully acceptable to bring a road soda in the gondola no matter the time of day. This traditional lace workhorse of a boot gets an upgrade thanks to a Vibram outsole and our new Ultralon F.I.T. Liner. The Libertine is built with a tweakable flex and enough support to charge deep days.

* model

GUIDE SRT

Born from the icy slopes of Vermont, where traction is a necessity not a luxury, the Guide SRT is built to explore and look good doing it. Featuring a hybrid lacing design that features a BOA HeelLock harness, Vibram outsole, and PowerStay strap to keep you trucking no matter the conditions. Set the boot pack, charge lines, repeat until satisfied.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 123

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

salomon.com

* model

LAUNCH LACE STR8JKT BOA

The Launch is a do-it-all park boot developed with our athletes and utilizing our Fit To Ride design process.

Using all new liner materials, FTR allows for a boot that’s lighter and more compact without sacrificing durability. Str8jkt, a 3-point seatbelt activated by Boa keeps your heel locked down and provides added support, ensuring you never experience heel lift again.

* model

DIALOGUE FOCUS BOA

The Dialogue is our medium+ flexing premiere freestyle boot. For 1920, Dialogue gets our Fit To Ride design update--making for a lighter, more compact, and more comfortable boot that lasts all season long. Dialogue is loaded with tech features on the outsole, liner, and shell; including an articulated cuff for a long-lasting, consistent flex.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 124

03.11.2019 20:58

thirtytwo.com

* model

MULLAIR

Built for the Swiss master of style, Nicolas Müller, the all-new Müllair boot is perfectly designed for his smooth riding with a responsive and buttery flex. Fitted with an ultra light and grippy Michelin Fiberlite outsole fused with cushy Energy Foam, hike the backcountry to find the ultimate line. Tune your boot with Tailored Lacing Technology to find the perfect fit and support for your riding style. Engineered with Cushion Cup locking your heel in place and utilizing your body’s natural cushioning, pull huge airs without worrying about heel bruises.

* model

LASHED DOUBLE BOA

One of the most recognized boots in the world, the Lashed lives up to its expectations. Make adjustments on the fly and find your perfect fit with the dual Boa system. Known for ultimate fit with the Independent Eyestay, medium flex and support, this boot will take you anywhere. Heat mold your liners and hit the backcountry, boxes, booters or groomers.

Versatile enough for any terrain, the Lashed is the boot of choice for Chris Bradshaw.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 125

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

vans.com/snow

* model

HI-STANDARD OG – JAKE KUZYK PRO MODEL

Tasteful trick selection, an eye for creativity and effortless style are all traits of one of the greatest street riders in the world, Jake Kuzyk. So when we asked Jake which boot he wanted a signature model in, we were not surprised to hear him say the Hi-Standard OG. With features like our new V1 UltraCush Liner, V1 PopCush Footbed and V1 Waffle Lug Outsole you are getting the upmost board feel with unrestricted mobility. Jake’s signature boot colorway carries across a variety of apparel and footwear as can be seen in his full collection on vans.com/snow.

* model

BRYAN IGUCHI VERSE

What do you get when you combine a lifetime of backcountry expertise with unbridled creativity?

You get the Verse™ designed by Bryan Iguchi.

Built to perform in the most extreme backcountry terrain, the Verse™ delivers all-day support, comfort and performance. Featuring our V3 UltraCush TNF Flashdry Liner, V3 PopCush Footbed, Waterproof Zip Shroud and V3 Ultimate Waffle Outsole, this boot is a big mountain weapon ready for whatever you throw at it. Bryan’s custom colorway is also featured in an UltraRange Hi Goretex MTE.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 126

01.11.2019 14:48

vimanasnow.com

* model

THE CONTINENTAL SL

The Continental boot is a modern classic freestyle boot.

Soft enough to tweak your method and give that skate feel, support enough to hit the pipe.

All new neoprene inlays bends the boot without getting that kinky feel.

You can either choose our LaceLocker tech or SpeedLace.

The SpeedLace version gets you strapped in in no time.

Full EVA dampening outersole, cushy liner, just what the team ordered.

It comes in a two colorways. Classic Black and White, and our favorite Black/General Gold inspired by the original Scandinavian snus.

Clean design and premium comfort.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 127

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

arborcollective.com

* model

HEMLOCK BLACK

The Hemlocks are the perfect bindings for doing it all.

From Street missions, to park shredding, to good-old resort cruising with your mates. These softer flexing, 2 strap bindings with Arbor’s innovative System X Baseplate will never steer you wrong.

* model

SPRUCE SURPLUS

The Spruce introduces a lightweight, single-mold baseplate and heel cup for a unified flex. Its endless comfort and seamless board feel generates a light, lively ride. The dope look and the durable construction make them the perfect bindings for riders who want great performance while still saving a few bucks for lift tickets or beers.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 128

01.11.2019 14:48

bentmetal.com

* model

COR PRO

Your first Bent Metal without a love handle. We know you love your love handles. We do too! But sometimes you just need that little bit of more area to lean on when it gets tough, so Bent Metal went with a solid high back on the Cor-Pro. The heavy hitters love ‘em! Also, there’s now more Room to throw a sick piece of Art on it. Art made by in-house Mervin employee Nick Russian. How sick is that? 7/10 flexing, Teamrider favorite!

* model

JOINT

Create a fluid JOINT between you and your board with the BMBW JOINT. The JOINT brings BMBW’s standard of high performance components and a Mervin Made Flex Control Drive Plate together for less money and more all mountain action. Nylon high back and heel cup to create a responsive yet forgiving all mountain performance. This one does come with a love handle!

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 129

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

burton.com

* model

MEN’S BURTON MALAVITA EST®

A pro favorite season after season, the binding has carved out a reputation for its ability to destroy everything that gets in its way. Features like the Heel Hammock, Supergrip Capstrap™, and Asym Hammockstrap™ wrap response around the boot for a seamless fit and comfort. The EST® mounts to a board featuring The Channel® mounting system for the ultimate in flex, feel, and adjustability.

* model

MEN’S STEP ON RE:FLEX

The men’s Burton Step On Re:Flex Snowboard Binding offers an intuitive boot to binding connection for riders seeking both convenience and performance. Three connection points – two by the toe and one at the heel – deliver unmatched simplicity, security, and board control, while a quick-release lever ensures a quick and easy exit.

Universally compatible with all current snowboard mounting systems, including 4x4, 3D®, and The Channel®.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 130

01.11.2019 14:48

northwavesnow.com

* model

RELOAD

The Drake Reload shares the same alloy/plastic baseplate as it’s bigger brother the “SuperSport” offering the same secure fully locked down feeling while its softer highjack and smaller more minimal straps keeps the ankle more liberated to squeak tweaks with ease. Its cantered footbeds will save your knees and its price tag will save you some coins that can help you go the distance at an apré ski near you.

This is a high-end freestyle orientated binding with at a bootleg price point.

* model

SUPERSPORT

The Supersport has been given a complete overhaul this year with a completely redesigned A-symetrical carbon composite high back, honeycomb heel strap complete with our new eze-entry tech that makes getting in and out of these puppies a breeze.

Our vision in the development of the Supersport has always been to be the best freestyle binding on the market at the most competitive price tag.

Drake has been in the business of keeping you strapped in for more than 20 years so we know what we are talking about when we say the 2020 Supersport is the absolute pinnacle of freestyle binding innovation.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 131

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

jonessnowboards.com

* model

APOLLO

Speed demons and hard charging freeriders need the Apollo, our premium freeride binding with a tall Flax/ Carbon highback for unmatched carving performance.

The Apollo reacts instantly thanks to NOW Skate Tech technology and it can be set up in Surf mode or Freeride mode by switching bushings and flipping the ankle straps. Surf mode offers max flex, Freeride mode offers max response.

* model

MERCURY

You like to carve hard and tweak hard? Strap into the Jones Mercury, an all-mountain binding that balances supreme edge control and a freestyle flex. The Mercury reacts instantly thanks to NOW Skate Tech technology and it can be set up in Surf mode or Freeride mode by switching bushings and flipping the ankle straps. Surf mode offers max flex, Freeride mode offers max response.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 132

01.11.2019 14:48

k2snow.com

* model

LIEN AT

The K2 Lien AT was developed to provide unmatched board feel and uninhibited board flex without sacrificing power transfer. The most customized binding in the line, this binding features our tuneable TriPodTM chassis complete with heel LockOut Block as well as our Perfect FitTM 2.0 toe trap and rugged SenderTM ankle strap.

* model

LINE UP

Designed for the marriage of jibbing and surf style, the Line Up is the most forgiving binding in the K2 Snowboarding line. Our urethane OptiTM Highback, BenderTM ankle strap, and TripodTM chassis all work in harmony to give riders the perfect tool for pressing rails and hunting out white waves.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 133

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

nitrousa.com

* model

TEAM PRO

This binding is built for those looking for the best of the best within freestyle snowboarding, and if you want to keep boarding longer, then the Airbags will get you there, and the new stainless steel cables in all four ladders will keep your bindings together even on the coldest of days…

Built to be the strongest and most comfortable binding in the park!

* model

RAMBLER

Don´t have a million dollars to spend on your set-up every year, but you want a binding with the technology and comfort to keep you boarding all day long year after year - then the Rambler is for you - equipped with cables in the toe ladder, mini disc, and a fit so comfortable it feels like you don’t deserve it!

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 134

01.11.2019 14:48

ridesnowboards.com

* model

CAPO

Perfect for a medium to stiff board while also offering great forgiveness means this binding is also great for the ladies. The Wedgies add so much pop and give your knees a break. Sooooo comfortable whether you kill the park or cruise groomers. 100% recommended to everyone! Except maybe rail junkies... Looks good too!

* model

DVA

If You Don’T Like These Bindings Then You’Re dumb.

I really love the slimeback on these bindings. Super flexy, but also responsive. 10/10 ! Customer service statement

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 135

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

romesnowboards.com

* model

CRUX

Have you ever been in a situation where you really, really wanted one thing but you knew you NEEDED something else? Maybe you could only afford one more drink and you wanted a beer, but you knew you needed water? The Crux of it all is that there is water in beer! While we may be fuzzy on the definition of Crux, it’s crystal clear that this is the best minimalist styled binding money can buy.

Next question.

* model

BLACK LABEL

Like a top shelf liquor or aged meat, the Black Label is for refined riders who know what they want. Using the DNA of the fan favorite Katana, the Black Label is an all-new, highly responsive, space age single malt of a binding. With our new ProGrip toe strap, an industry first overmolded composite highback and more tech than you can fit into a minibar, the Black Label is our newest offering for futuristic function and connected comfort. Serve over ice, or drink it right from the bottle, we aren’t gonna judge.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 136

01.11.2019 14:48

salomon.com

* model

HIGHLANDER

The Highlander is our medium stiff, do-it-all, take anywhere binding built for everything from ripping courd to flipping booters. Shadowfit technology provides a more natural and fluid connection between your boot and board, allowing for the surfiest pow turns and more tweaked presses and grabs without sacrificing response. Support where you need it, flexibility where you want it.

* model

DISTRICT

The District is our softest offering of Shadowfit technology for those looking for a skate-like feel. The soft heel cup allows for maximum maneuverability in the air and on rails. Using a Kevlar cord this binding doesn’t lack response from heel to toe and fits a broad rider profile from beginner to the park pro.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 137

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

switchbackbindings.com

* model

HALLDOR PRO

The Halldor Pro is the most decked out binding in the Switchback line. These bad boys will support you better than a high school guidance counselor. The super strong AERON base paired with the ultra cozy Eames straps will leave you feeling better than the Chinese massage place round the corner. Plus, they perfectly match Halldor’s pro model Lobster board for an unbeatable combo.

* model

DESTROYER

No fancy gimmicks here kids, the Destroyer is a straightforward solid binding that won’t break the bank. They’re such a good deal I bet if you stole your parents credit card and ordered these they wouldn’t even notice. They come with the loose and playful Midback highbacks and the pressure point free Miller straps.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 138

01.11.2019 14:48

unionbindingcompany.com

* model

STRATA

Your feet will thank you later. The Union Strata’s Fused Vaporlite Bushings set new standards for cushioning and vibration dampening in snowboard bindings. Ride a pair this winter to see for your self.

* model

TRILOGY

Forget about diamond rings and designer hand bags...

Give your girl what she really wants this season, the Trilogy from Union Binding Company. Comfortable, bombproof and now featuring the team Union Team Highback.

S N OW B OA R D I N G

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 139

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:48

vimanasnow.com

* model

THE SCANDO B-RAGE AND ENNITIME

The Scando Signature: Brage Richenberg and Enni Rukajärvi signature colorways of the Scando binding.

Same great fit but with B-Rage and Ennitime artwork by the Shallowtree.

Our powerhouse binding just got a makeover. Constructed from urethane mixed with triax fibers, The Scando binding is a direct product of our team rider’s feedback. Built to give you all the response and comfort you ever wanted. The all-new base gives increased board response without compromising the board’s natural flex. New team straps keep you locked in while still leaving room for tweaking out grabs.

R E A L

AA 201 BOOTS N BINDERS .indd 140

S N OW B OA R D I N G

Buyer’s guide BOOTS AND BINDINGS 20

01.11.2019 14:49