Bindings are an integral part of wakeboarding equipment linking you to your board. They are available in various styles and sizes, each made to give you a unique blend of comfort, performance and safety. Having the right bindings can enhance your wakeboarding experience, irrespective of your skill level. Here’s how to choose wakeboard bindings:
How to Choose Wakeboard Bindings
Table of Contents
Knowing Wakeboard Bindings
Wakeboard bindings, sometimes called boots, do more than connect your feet with the board; they play a major role in your stability and control on the water. The bindings include a baseplate that attaches to the board and the boot itself that contains your foot. The design of the bindings influences how you can perform tricks, complete jumps and navigate wakes.
Types of Wakeboard Bindings
There are two main types of wakeboard bindings: open-toe and closed-toe.
Open-toe bindings can accommodate various foot sizes; they are convenient for riders who share equipment or who are still growing. They provide more flexibility and are generally more accepting.
Closed-toe bindings fit more precisely and offer more control, which leads to better performance. They are generally preferred by riders who have specific size requirements or who like a more responsive feel.
Wakeboard Binding Features to Consider
When choosing your wakeboard bindings, keep these points in mind:
Flexibility: Bindings come with different flexibility levels. A softer flex is more comfortable and forgiving, which is good for new riders or those who like a more frisky ride. A stiffer flex provides better support and is more suitable for high-impact tricks.
Lacing System: The bindings’ lacing system might be a single lace, dual lace or even a Boa closure system. With a dual lacing system you can adjust the tightness of the upper and lower parts of the boot separately, providing a more customised fit. (Also see “6. Lacing System” Below.)
Cushioning: Choose bindings with good cushioning to absorb impacts, important for when you ride in choppy water or perform airborne tricks.
Fit: Make sure the bindings fit snugly but comfortably. A good fit will prevent superfluous movement that could result in injury.
How to Choose Binding Size
For the sake of safety and comfort, you should ensure that you choose the right size wakeboard bindings. Here are some points to consider:
Shoe Size: Wakeboard bindings generally follow standard shoe sizes. Start by matching your binding size to your regular shoe size. However, you should still check the specific size chart of the brand you’re interested in, as fits may vary.
Fit Types: Bindings come in three main fit types: tight, moderate and loose. A tight fit can provide precision but can become uncomfortable over long periods. A loose fit allows more freedom of movement, which is ideal for performing tricks but may lack control. A moderate fit would strike a balance between the two.
Foot Width: Consider the width of your feet. Some bindings are designed with a wider base for broader feet, while others cater for narrower feet. Ensuring the correct width will prevent discomfort and improve performance.
Flexibility: The flex of the bindings is another important factor. Stiffer bindings provide better support and control, which is beneficial for carving and speed. Softer bindings offer more flexibility, making them suitable for performing tricks.
Testing: Always try on the bindings before purchasing. Walk around, simulate wakeboarding movements and ensure that they feel snug but not painful. This will help you find the perfect fit and avoid any issues on the water.
Wakeboard Binding Set-Up
For a comfortable and enjoyable ride, your bindings must be set up correctly. Here are some tips to ensure that your bindings are perfectly adjusted for your next wakeboarding session:
Determine Your Stance: Before adjusting your bindings, you should determine your preferred stance – left foot forward (regular stance) or right foot forward (goofy stance). This will direct how you should position your bindings on the board.
Stance Width: Your feet should be roughly shoulder-width apart. A narrower stance provides greater maneuverability, while a wider stance provides more stability. You should determine your stance width according to what feels comfortable and natural for your riding style and body size.
Angle of Bindings: What angle should your wakeboard bindings be set at? The angle of your bindings, sometimes called “duck stance”, can affect your comfort and balance. New riders can start with a slight angle, then gradually progress to more bold angles as they attempt more intricate jumps and tricks.
Check the Fit: Your bindings should fit snugly but not so tighly as to cause discomfort. Ensure that your feet do not have excessive movement within the bindings, as this could upset your ability to control the wakeboard.
Heel and Toe Adjustment: Ensure that your heel sits comfortably at the back of the binding and that your toes are not cramped at the front. Some bindings will allow you to adjust the heel and toe ramps for a better fit.
Lacing System: If your bindings’ lacing system allows for tightening and loosening, ensure that the laces are secure but not overly tight, as this can restrict movement and blood flow.
Test and Retest: After making your adjustments, stand on your wakeboard and mimic wakeboarding movements. Take note of any areas of lack of control or discomfort and readjust as necessary.
Regular Check-ups: Check your bindings before and after every ride. Screws can loosen as time passes so it’s important to ensure that all remains tight and secure.
Setups can vary from one rider to another so what works for one may not work well for another. It’s all about personal preference and comfort.
When to Replace Your Wakeboard Bindings
Switching out your old wakeboard bindings at the right time can improve your performance and keep you safe when you’re riding the wakes. How long your wakeboard bindings will last depends on how often you ride, how good the bindings are and how well you take care of them. To figure out when you should get a new set, check out these tips:
Check for wear: Examine your bindings for damage such as cracks, tears or fading of colour. If the material is worn or damaged, you should get new bindings.
If your bindings no longer give you the same support or control, it could be that they are too worn or stretched out to work efficiently.
The padding and inside layers of the bindings can break down with time, making them uncomfortable. If your bindings become uncomfortable, think about getting new ones.
Wakeboarding technology is continually improving. The latest bindings might work, feel or fit better for the way you ride. Staying up-to-date with new technology can make wakeboarding more enjoyable.
Because of the stress and water that bindings are exposed to, they could wear out more rapidly if you wakeboard regularly. People who don’t wakeboard as much might not need to replace their bindings as often.
If you’ve taken a big fall and your bindings get a heavy impact, inspect them well for any damage that might not be readily apparent. Sometimes it is best to get new ones even if they still look fine.
If you wakeboard often (maybe a few times a week), you’ll do well to examine your bindings before every session. If you don’t ride very much, checking them every two years or so should be enough. Pay attention to your feet – they will often let you know when you need new bindings.
There’s no exact “expiry date” for wakeboard bindings but being attentive to how they look and perform is really important. Clean them, let them dry, then put them away carefully to make them last longer. Take good care of your bindings and they’ll serve you well for a ling time.
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