Rear entry snowboard bindings, also known as “step-in” bindings, offer a fast and convenient entry system compared to traditional strap-in bindings.
The highbacks can usually be folded down, allowing the rider to simply step into the binding from the rear – without needing to manually adjust and tighten any straps.
But are they worth buying?Â
I reviewed the top rear entry snowboard bindings, so let’s find out!
Our Top Rear-Entry Snowboard Binding Picks
- Best Overall Rear-Entry Binding: The Nidecker Supermatic
- Best Budget Rear-Entry Binding: The Gnu Cheeter
- The People’s Choice:Â The Flow Fuse Hybrid Bindings
- The Best of The Rest: The Flow NX2-TM Hybrid
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How To Get Into Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings
This parts pretty easy!Â
Most rear entry bindings function similarly. Once you’ve found the correct strap tightness, all you have to do is flick a switch, drop the highback down and step in.Â
This avoids the issue of needing to tighten the straps every time you get off the lift. No longer will you be left behind by your skiing homies!
At least… that’s the theory.Â
Do Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings Work?
Not all rear entry bindings are created equal.Â
Some brands have truly nailed the concept, while others… not so much.Â
When they work, they really do save time and effort. When they’re badly designed, you end up having to adjust both the highbacks and the straps. Which doesn’t save you time at all!
So let’s take a look at the pros and cons of rear entry snowboard bindings.Â
The Pros and Cons of Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings
- Quick and easy entry!
- Never lose your preferred strap settings. They stay the same even when you're not "strapped in".
- Some rider's find them more comfortable.
- Super beginner-friendly.
- Certain models offer excellent performance - they feel more responsive in the front portion.
- Easier to strap in on the move.
- Harder to strap into whilst sitting down (especially on steeper slopes).
- May not accommodate all boot sizes and shapes.
- Accumulates more snow than strap-ins.
- While rear entry bindings have improved significantly in recent years, some riders have experienced issues with the release mechanisms. Choose a reputable brand to avoid issues!
Rear Entry Vs Traditional Snowboard Bindings
The most obvious question is whether rear entry snowboard bindings are better than regular ones. Personally, I think some of the newest models are certainly worth a look!
But I’ve put together a table comparing rear entry vs traditional snowboard bindings.Â
| Rear Entry Bindings | Traditional Bindings |
|---|---|
| Step-in design | Strap-in design |
| Quick and easy entry | Requires manual adjustment |
| Limited strap adjustments | Offers more customization |
| May not accommodate all boot sizes | Accommodates various boot sizes |
| Efficient energy transfer | Allows precise adjustments for riding style |
| Beginner Friendly | May have a learning curve |
| May restrict mobility compared to traditional bindings | Offers maximum flexibility and freedom of movement |
| Some models had issues with release mechanisms or durability | Widely used and trusted by riders |
| May accumulate more snow | Less prone to snow build-up |
| Reliable, consistent fit | Fit must be adjusted every time |
The Best Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings
Brand: Nidecker
Flex: 8/10 (felt more like a 6-7)
Baseplate: Asym Rockered Matic-Series
Additional Features: Automatic closure system
- The best rear entry snowboard bindings
- Super easy in and out
- Uses their innovative "Drop In Tech"
- Very premium feel
- Responsive but comfortable
- Use with any boots
- Can also strap-in like regular bindings if you need to
✖️ On the heavy side
✖️ Slightly thicker baseplate than regular bindings
As someone who’s a little resistant to change, I didn’t expect to like the Supermatic.Â
However, after a couple of runs, I was hooked!
These bindings are pretty unique. Yes, they use a rear entry system. But they’re also usable just like traditional bindings – if you still feel like strapping in.
Nidecker have also used what they call “Drop In Tech”. Just pop your foot through the rear of the binding and step down on the heel pedal. The binding will automatically engage. That’s it – you’re ready to ride!
Nidecker have therefore managed to tackle most of the criticisms of rear-entry bindings. Kudos!
The drawbacks are that the binding feels a little on the heavy side. The baseplate is also quite large (though somehow manages to offer surprisingly decent board feel).
They come with a reasonably steep price tag – which is admittedly still cheaper than Burton Step-ons (and you don’t have to buy special propriety boots). Â
Will I abandon my regular bindings? I’m not so sure. But if you’re in the market for rear-entries, these are definitely worth a try.
My full Nidecker Supermatic binding review is available here.Â
Brand: Flow
Flex: 5/10
Baseplate: Fuse Series
Additional Features: Canted BankBeds
- The best all-mountain rear entry bindings
- An excellent all-rounder
- Reliable and proven entry system
- Great for all abilities
- Did well on a range of boards
✖️ Bulkier boots (like some 32 models) don't fit perfectly
✖️ No automatic closure option
Flow have specialized in rear entry bindings for years. They know what they’re doing!
The Fuse is their middle-flexing all-rounder. It’s better for beginners than stiffer models like the Supermatic.
However, it lacks automatic closure and the ability to function fully like a regular binding (although the hybrid version is due in 2024).Â
I found it to be a true “set it and forget it” type of binding. The comfort and performance was good enough that I resisted the urge to fiddle around – which is pretty rare for me!
Brand: Flow
Flex: 5-6/10
Baseplate: NX2 Series
Additional Features: Canted BankBeds
- Another great all-mountain option
- Much more forgiving than the classic NX2
- Hybrid designs gives you more options
- Awesome look for 2024
- Better board feel, smaller baseplate
- Great shock absorption
✖️ Not as fast in/out as the newer systems
Flow’s flagship model is the classic NX2. An excellent binding. It was actually the first rear-entry binding I ever rode. And at the time, I wasn’t ready for it!
The NX2 is pretty darn stiff.
The NX2-TM is the more forgiving younger brother. And the hybrid model throws in the option to use them like regular bindings.Â
As a result, the NX2-TM are more adjustable, lighter-weight and have a thinned down baseplate.Â
This made for a really nice ride, especially on boards like the Salomon Assassin, DOA or Gnu Rider’s Choice.Â
The downside is that they’re not as fast in/out as new models like the Supermatic or Burton Step On. But they’re still faster than traditional strap ons. Overall – I like them!
Final Thoughts
That’s pretty much everything you need to know about rear entry snowboard bindings.Â
Tempted to try them?
I’ve certainly got a couple of pairs in my arsenal these days. If you’re not strictly attached to tradition, they’re certainly worth a try. Are they perfect? Nope. But sadly, nothing is.Â
Drop your own experiences in the comments below.Â
Then maybe consider pairing them with one of the top boards of the season.Â
Happy riding!
FAQ's
Your most frequently asked questions about rear entry snowboard bindings.
Rear entry snowboard bindings use a hinged highback mechanism to allow the rider to easily step into the bindings from the rear.
This simplifies the process of getting in and out of the bindings.Â
No, most rear entry snowboard bindings are compatible with regular snowboard boots. There is no need to buy special boots.
If your boots are particularly bulky, they may struggle to fit some models. It’s worth testing their compatibility before making a purchase.Â
Flow are the original rear entry binding manufacturer. Their products are all rear entry, except the hybrid models which can also be used like traditional strap-ins.Â
I haven’t forgotten about you!
Sadly, I couldn’t personally test the women’s versions. However my better half informs me that the best rear entry snowboard bindings for women are:
2 comments
Hey Ben,
I’m surprised you didn’t have GNU on your list. Not sure why GNU isn’t getting any reviews anywhere to speak of. They are better than any on your list. I’ve used GNU since 2012. Probably had 150 days on em and they still work well. For reference I’m advanced freerider.
Sam
Hey Sam, Which GNU’s in particular? You’re right, they’re one of the lesser-known rear entry options. But we’re willing to give them a go! Thanks, Fraser