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Snowboard Bindings F/W 2025/26 Retail Buyer’s Guide
For Winter 2025/2026, the snowboard binding world is shaping up to be a vintage of innovation and evolution. With brands pushing the envelope on technology, convenience, and performance; retailers and consumers alike will face an array of choices. This will for sure allow more people to embrace our beautiful activity and potentially hold back others. Let’s dive into next season’s standout trends, technological breakthroughs, and brand strategies which will change snowboarding forever and participate in its close future. Ladies and gents, welcome to next winter’s Snowboard Bindings 25/26 Retail Buyer’s Guide, brought to you by Matthieu Perez.
Everyone sees it from its own spectrum and vision of the market, as well as the product offering. “Lots of changes in this category” as brought to the table by Stephan Schauer, European Marketing Manager at Ride. He continues, “brands and consumers have shifted towards new concepts like fast-entry bindings, while traditional strap bindings continue to evolve”. And we see those changes coming in hot!
ThirtyTwo will be new to the binding game for 25/26, and the brand is entering the market with some new technology. Will Keegan, ThirtyTwo Boot Designer puts in perspective, “ThirtyTwo’s three decades of experience with boots gives us a different perspective on bindings that we are excited to share. ThirtyTwo’s complete binding collection is new for 25/26, and we are launching with Team Rider Signature colorways, a ThirtyTwo 30 Year Anniversary colorway and a collaboration with Volcom.”
Bent Metal Binding Work reports that last season was particularly amazing as the PNW brand witnessed an increased demand and surge of interest in automatic fast entry binding technology. BMBW Product Manager Paul Ferrel adds, “we’re incredibly excited to announce a major development at BMBW in this forefront.” No difference at Jones, Ruairi Collins, European Marketing Manager observed last season the shift towards quick entry bindings continue to solidify in the market. He explains: “our traditional two-strap bindings remain strong and popular. However, feedback from retailers and distributors highlights a growing demand for more convenient bindings.”
NEW OUT THERE
ThirtyTwo is excited to enter a new category with the FASE system. The FASE Fast Entry System combines the comfort and locked-in feeling of two-strap binding with an intuitive entry system that is compatible with any boot or board. “All of our binding messaging will focus on the T32M FASE bindings launch” opens Will Keegan. He pursues, “With FASE in mind, the T32M binding has all new buckle designs, straps and an ultra dampening baseplate. We have designed a more open, even flexing high-back that will allow for a mid-flex all-mountain friendly feel. The beautifully designed, light weight, functional T32M ankle strap also sports a mid flex that riders will find adapts to most riding styles. As a package it all works very well together.” Please welcome ThirtyTwo to the party! And Jones is next on the list! As per Ruairi Collins’ observation, riders have to face a difficult choice between high-performance two-strap bindings and convenient options that sacrifice performance. So to address this, Jones has collaborated with FASE to develop the Mercury FASE that combines high performance and a fast entry, offering the best of both worlds. Collins emphasises: “The Mercury FASE binding, combines the comfort and locked-in feeling of two-strap bindings with an ultra-fast strapping-in process. The Mercury FASE is developed around 3 key features; The AutoBack, which is a highback that closes automatically around the boot, the Locked-In Toe Strap, built to stay in the desired position, and the FastStrap ankle strap, which lets you strap-in smoothly with one hand.”
And on we go, with Rome, beyond excited to present the Katana AW FASE for winter 25/26. Matt Stillman, Rome’s omnipotent narrator nails, “The FASE Fast Entry system is the future of two-strap bindings, effectively creating a new category of fast entry bindings, while optimising the performance of the tried and true two-strap binding.” He adds, “it is designed to be universally compatible with any boot model and any board, the FASE Fast Entry system is an effortless and intuitive way to optimise any ride.” Last but not least, Bataleon is always perfecting its existing tech and for 25/26 will as well add FASE Fast Entry System to its best selling Blaster model. The Netherlands based brand is delighted to point out “We have the same tech story on all parts and add the option for Fast Entry without any downsides on performance.”
Fast-entry bindings, such as semi-automatic and fully automatic systems, continue to dominate innovation. These designs prioritise convenience, allowing riders to get in and out of their bindings with minimal effort. This trend is reshaping the market as more brands adopt these systems, responding to increasing consumer demand. “As innovations like automatic fast entry systems become more popular, there’s a trend of riders willing to spend more for products that offer superior performance and convenience, which in turn create a better rider experience during valuable time on the slopes” explains Bent Metal Binding Works Product Manager Paul Ferrel. And BMBW is excited to introduce the all new Lightning Supermatic® model, featuring an innovative automatic fast entry system. Another player enters the game.
As we talk about Nidecker’s Supermatic® technology, the carbon Supermatic® will keep its place at the top of the line of the Swiss brand, offering the ultimate mix of rapid entry and lightning response. The original Supermatic® has been renamed the OG and comes in four new colour options as well as white and black. “But the big news is that we’re introducing an all-new Supermatic® model, the LT, which features a stiffer, more streamlined highback and low-mass strap design” says Santiago de Santa Catalina, Nidecker Bindings Product Manager. In the meantime, Nidecker continues the Flow Design collection, a tried and trusted speed entry with a unique riding feel that comes from the legendary Power Triangle. “Refined over decades, these bindings have proved themselves in all conditions and earned a loyal army of fans” admits De Santa Catalina.
SP, Head and Gnu still continue their Speed-In/Quick entry semi-automatic collections. Paul Ferrel at Gnu, highlights the pressure relief button, which instantly relaxes ankle strap pressure at the push of a button, promoting blood flow for a warm and comfortable ride up the chairlift. “Plus, our aluminium baseplates make our bindings the lightest in the semi-automatic fast entry category, if not the lightest overall” claims Ferrel.
Head’s RX bindings merge strap binding power and precision with a one-time setup reclining highback, enabling instant riding post-chairlift. “These bindings ensure seamless entry, reliable grip, precise support, and efficient power transmission during your ride. Universally compatible, they suit any boot brand” precises Kristin Wimmer, Head’s Junior Marketing Manager.
Onto the next tech, Nitro, Flux and now Union are leveraging Burton’s proven Step On® technology to bring high-performance quick-entry options to the market. As per the press release from November 2024, Union Binding Company and Burton Snowboards are excited to announce the release of Union Atlas Step On® Binding. The binding will be available in a limited release of men’s small, medium, large and extra-large sizes in January 2025. “The Burton Step On® system is proven,” said Martino Fumagalli, Union Binding Co. CEO and General Manager. “It is the time and age to give something back, and this is a good way to collaborate on a project that can evolve the sport and industry. This partnership will continue beyond this one product – we want to evolve the system at all levels. Now that we’re in, we are all in.” A second release of Union Atlas Step On® Bindings will drop in Fall 2025 and feature new colours. For 2026, an additional Union Step On® model is in development that will cover all men’s and women’s sizes.
Nitro will introduce a complete setup with bindings and boots featuring the Step On® system for the Winter 25/26. Dominik Fleissner recalls, “The Nitro Step On® binding is crafted for riders who value the effortless convenience of a quick, easy-in, easy-out system without sacrificing performance or control. This binding boasts a custom Nitro highback, designed for seamless entry, along with a supremely comfortable E-TPU footbed dampening system.” Neither sleeping on its own tech, for Winter 25/26, Burton is introducing two more Step On® EST models, the Cartel X EST and Lexa X EST.
While fast-entry systems are gaining ground, traditional two-strap bindings remain a staple, particularly for riders seeking technical precision and customization. Many brands, including Amplid, Drake, Karakoram, Ride and YES, are innovating within this space, refining materials, highbacks, and strap designs to elevate performance and comfort. “No fast, quick back entry binders at Ride but check out the all new Drone and Specter bindings” claims Stephan Shauer, European Marketing Coordinator, “we have developed new highbacks and new straps that will allow you to be more precise, faster in your rotations, and above all, more comfortable. The weight will also be lighter thanks to the use of a new nylon material”. Peter Bauer at Amplid develops, “Many of our customers have this ‘set-mind’, where they want board and binding from the same brand. Because it looks slick and matches well. With our lightweight Proton Binding we have a perfect match for our response boards”.
For the 25/26 season, Drake will introduce new buckles in their bindings to provide a more seamless and precise user experience. These upgraded buckles offer smoother engagement, allowing riders to fine-tune their fit with increased ease and accuracy, which is especially useful during fast adjustments on the mountain. “This innovation enhances overall comfort and performance without compromising the reliability and durability our bindings are known for” reminds Gian Luca Barbi, Marketing Specialist at Drake. Flux developed straps that provide comfortable tightening using new materials, and a highback designed specifically for high-speed carving. Finally, David Pitschi at Yes comments: “While we’re not introducing any groundbreaking innovations this season, we’re committed to optimizing the performance of our existing components. Our focus remains on refining these features for durability, comfort, and functionality”.
The snowboard binding market for Winter 25/26 is poised for growth, driven by a combination of innovation and shifting consumer preferences. Premium products are commanding attention, with brands like Rome emphasising the willingness of riders to invest in high-quality bindings. Head echoes this sentiment, noting a clear move toward higher price points across all categories, spurring their focus on innovative, high-demand designs. Similarly, Gnu highlights the higher costs associated with cutting-edge automatic and semi-automatic fast-entry bindings but aims to balance innovation with affordability to attract a wider audience. For Santiago de Santa Catalina, Nidecker’s Bindings Product Manager: “It seems that everyone is trying to provide a good ‘bang for the buck’. But in an uncertain market, the brands who will win are the ones who continue to invest in tech and produce real-world benefits – it’s a strategy that’s worked for us so far”. Leading innovations like Jones’ Mercury FASE and ThirtyTwo’s T32M FASE, Rome Katana AW FASE and Bataleon Blaster FASE are redefining the landscape, combining the locked-in feel of traditional two-strap bindings with the convenience of fast-entry systems.
Meanwhile, brands like Burton and Nidecker continue to push the boundaries of established systems like Step On® and Supermatic® , while Amplid, Drake, Karakoram, Ride and YES maintain their focus on performance and aesthetics, appealing to all mountain-oriented riders with secure, customisable solutions. Together, these approaches highlight a dynamic market adapting to varied consumer demands with a strong emphasis on innovation, performance, and value. Retail support for snowboard bindings in Winter 25/26 reflects a strong commitment to helping retailers succeed in showcasing the latest innovations. Jones is leading by example, prioritising timely delivery of marketing and sales assets while ensuring factory deadlines are met to prevent shipping delays. Flux enhances retailer engagement through hands-on study sessions, on-snow demos, and social media campaigns designed to drive consumer interest toward retail locations.
ThirtyTwo is putting significant energy into launching their new FASE bindings with retailer clinics, demos, and robust marketing support, ensuring both staff and customers are well-educated on this debut product. Meanwhile, Karakoram is offering shop-specific customisation options with their Local binding, creating exclusive opportunities for retailers to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Collectively, these efforts aim to equip retailers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the upcoming season.
LAST WORD FOR THE ROAD
Head reinforced its brand message ‘COME RIDE WITH US’ since 2001, inviting everyone, no matter their riding style, level, or age, to become part of the snowboard community and experience what snowboarding is about. Kristin Wimmer announces “In this respect, we will launch our new team movie “COME RIDE WITH US – ONE WORLD, ONE CRWU” in 2025 featuring our team riders all over the world showing their personal experience on snow. Stay tuned!“
Ride wants to be the company for the people, so the brand offers products for all snowboarders. Nidecker has the same goal, to appeal to every rider with the most comprehensive binding range on the market. “Choose lightning fast entry with Supermatic®; precision performance with Two-Strap; or flip it and rip it with the Flow Design collection” claims Santiago de Santa Catalina. And Dominik Fleissner at Nitro to nail: “We believe having the right equipment is essential to a fun and successful snowboarding experience, and we strive to ensure everyone can discover the ideal product for the mountain.” Full program!
To conclude on a very come together and similar note, Chris Cunningham, Chief Product Officer at Burton elaborates on the collaboration between Union and Burton, “We’re making the binding connection point the shared technology ingredient. Collaborating instead of competing gives us the freedom to shift our focus to further innovation, which is going to help us welcome more people into snowboarding.”
The Winter 25/26 snowboard binding category will represent a pivotal moment for the industry. From revolutionary fast-entry systems to refined traditional designs, brands are ensuring every rider – whether performance-driven or convenience-focused – can find their perfect match. For retailers, this means navigating a landscape rich in opportunity, innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. Prepare now to maximise your success on the slopes next winter!
Brand Previews
