We’re all obsessed with snowboards. You probably even bought a new one this season. But when’s the last time you updated your trusty bindings? If you’re struggling to remember, chances are you need a new pair! But how long do snowboard bindings last?
Snowboard bindings can last for several years with proper care and maintenance, but it ultimately depends on usage, frequency, and the quality of the bindings. On average, bindings should last for 80 to 100 days.Â
But that’s just the short answer. I’ve got some great tips for you. Keep reading…
How Long Will Your Snowboard Bindings Last?
There are a number of factors involved in determining your binding’s lifespan. Not least, whether you recklessly throw them into the back of a pickup truck (RIP to my Burton Cartels).Â
Here are the main factors that will affect how long your snowboard bindings last:
1. How Often You Use Them
The more frequently you use your bindings, the more wear and tear they’ll suffer. If you’re a frequent snowboarder, you may need to replace your bindings more often than the average weekend warrior.Â
2. Your Riding Style
The style of riding you prefer will also impact the lifespan of your bindings. Freestyle riders put a lot more stress on their bindings than those who like to cruise the slopes. Riding rails is even worse!
3. Your Snowboard Binding Quality
The quality of your snowboard bindings is super important. You can’t expect a super cheap Walmart binding to last more than a couple of hours months!
High-quality bindings made from durable materials will typically last longer than cheaper, lower-quality options. Only buy bindings from the best snowboard brands and you’re off to a good start.Â
4. Maintenance!
Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your snowboard bindings. Neglecting your gear leads to damage and wear. Look after those bad boys!
5. The Boot To Binding Compatibility
As discussed when talking about how long snowboard boots last, your boot and binding need to fit seamlessly. If you’re having to cram you boot into the binding heel-cup, somethings gotta give!Â
Test your boots and your bindings together before you take the tags off. They should fit together smoothly. A little room around the sides is fine.
Use our snowboard binding size chart to find the perfect size for each brand.Â
Signs of Wear and Tear on Snowboard Bindings
If you’re putting your bindings together like a jigsaw puzzle each morning, they’re probably ready for retirement. But there are also some more subtle signs of wear and tear to check for.Â
Here are a few things to look out for:
Cracks or breakage in the baseplate or highback.
Worn or frayed straps or buckles.
Loose or missing screws or other hardware.
Difficulty adjusting or tightening the bindings.
- Flattened footbed padding – particularly if they’re supposed to have canted footbeds.
Which Snowboard Bindings Last The Longest?
There’s no easy answer to this question. Even with the highest quality bindings, you might be the one unlucky customer with a faulty pair.
However, by choosing a quality brand you reduce the chance of an issue. You also increase the likelihood of a good warranty. Plus, local resorts are more likely to stock spare parts for the bigger brands.Â
My favorite piece of advice: whilst the latest tech with fancy straps and gadgets might be tempting, the more parts a binding has, the more parts it has that can break.Â
Stick with a tried and tested binding like the Burton Malavita. I have well over 100 days on my current pair. Whilst the straps do now need replacing, Burton have agreed to send out a replacement free of charge.Â
Brand: Burton
Flex: 5-6/10
Lifespan: Mine are still going after ~100 days of riding
- Super durable
- Very reliable
- Great warranty service
- Choice of EST and Reflex versions
- Highly versatile - works for most boards and most riders
✖️ Perhaps not stiff enough for the more aggressive freeriders
My Experience With Different Snowboard Binding Brands
I’ve used and abused dozens of snowboard bindings over the years. Here is a summary of their fate…
| Binding Model | Lifespan | Cause of Death |
|---|---|---|
| Burton Malavita | 100 days and counting | To be confirmed... |
| Rome Katana | Around 75-days | Snapped high-back |
| Salomon Hologram | Around 40-days | Response was lacking |
| Burton X | Retired after 20-days | My poor ankles needed some forgiveness |
| Union Falcor | Around 60-days | Constantly loosening screws |
| Burton Genesis | 80 days | Detached high-back hammock |
How To Make Snowboard Boots Last Longer
As you may have noticed from the table above, many of my bindings could have been saved by some spare parts or repairs.
Unfortunately, most of these bindings had lots of wear in other places. I’d also changed out several parts already. At some stage… you have to let them go.Â
However, if you’d like to extend the tragically short-lives of your precious bindings, here are some pointers:
- Fold your high-backs down on chairlifts. Hundreds of bindings die needlessly every year due to crush injuries.Â
- Store your bindings in a dry, cool place.
- Clean them after each use to remove any dirt or debris. This prevents fatal rust.
Check the screws and other hardware regularly. Ensure they’re tight. Use Loctite if absolutely necessary.Â
Inspect the straps and buckles for signs of wear or damage.
Summary
So, how long do snowboard bindings last?Â
Whilst it depends on a number of factors, you can expect most snowboard bindings to last several seasons. This should allow up to 100-days of riding for most of you.Â
If your bindings do start to fail on you, spare parts can keep them going a little longer.Â
However, I’d strongly advise considering a new pair of bindings at this point (budget permitting). This allows you to upgrade your current pair and choose a binding that most suits your current riding style.Â
But I’m a snowboard gear junkie and love new gear. Maybe some of you have kept a binding alive for the best part of a decade? Let me know in the comments below!
And then check out these super tasty swallowtail snowboards.Â
