Bindings are a critical piece of snowboarding equipment. You should always have a good set of bindings, but you don’t need to spend a ton of money to get an effective option.
I’ve been snowboarding for most of my life and have been a certified instructor for the last ten years. I’ve seen all sorts of bindings over the years, from the most expensive to basic budget straps.
The Union STR is the best set of snowboard bindings you can find for around $200. Union is one of the top binding brands in the industry, and a new set at this price is a steal.
I’ll show you a few other great options in this post that all come in an affordable price. From really cheap choices for boarders on a budget to higher-performance bindings that will work for more experienced riders, you should be able to find a set that works here.
Bring on the savings and the snow.
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Who Should Get This
Every snowboarder needs bindings. A board is essentially useless without a way to secure your feet to the top of it. Bindings bridge that gap while also helping transfer power from your legs to the board so you can control and maneuver your way down the mountain.
Bindings are essential, but you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get a decent set. The budget options listed here are suitable for everyone who wants to save some money on their setup.
Every model in this guide makes this list, not just because they are affordable but also because they deliver excellent performance.
High-end bindings cost more but also offer better high-end performance. The options here will work well, but they may not deliver expert-level reliability and performance.
Top Budget Snowboard Bindings
Here are my picks for the best budget snowboard bindings currently available.
1. Best Overall: Union STR
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Affordable higher-performance option, all-mountain versatility, Duraflex construction, thermoformed bushings, grade 8.8 hardware
- Flex: Medium
- Style: Strap-in
The best budget bindings you can find is the Union STR. These are a quality set of bindings that give you reliable performance and have an extremely high-quality construction that is durable and strong.
Duraflex material is used in nearly all Union bindings, and the STR has a Stage 5 Duraflex baseplate and highback. This material offers tremendous strength, but it also maintains its supportive properties in colder temperatures.
Thermoformed EVA bushings are built for the weather as well, and these durable construction elements add extra value because they will last season after season. You’ll also get grade 8.8 hardware, which is super strong and built to last.
A medium-stiff flex is perfect for all-mountain riders and gives you plenty of response and control. The straps and buckles of the STR are reliable and easy to use in the cold.
These aren’t a beginner binding, so they are the most expensive option on this list.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Tactics or Equipe Sports.
2. Best Freestyle: Nitro Zero
- Best for: Freestyle
- Key features: Air Base frame, air dampening system, canted footbed, easy entry buckles and ratchets, premium ankle strap
- Flex: Medium
- Style: Strap-in
The Nitro Zero is a solid choice for freestyle riders and park rats. This is an affordable binding that will give you quality performance in the park and other areas of the mountain.
I like the air dampening system that is built into the Zero. It’s very effective at absorbing impact on hard landings and can help prevent injury and fatigue. It also cuts down on the overall weight of the binding.
The Air Base frame is strong and durable but flexible enough to provide you with the give and support you need when stomping any feature. The highback gives you solid support around your upper ankle area.
Board saver technology is another cool feature of the STR, and it helps to reduce friction in the areas where your bindings meet your board. This adds value through durability.
If you want to venture out into more technical terrain, these bindings might not be stiff enough for you.
==> You can also get it on Evo or PRFO Sports or Curated.
3. Best Women’s: Rossignol Voodoo
- Best for: Women
- Key features: All-mountain versatility, comfortable, balanced feel, tool-free adjustments
- Flex: Medium
- Style: Strap-in
Female riders on a budget will love the Rossignol Voodoo. These are a versatile and solid set of bindings that are simple in design but offer serious all-mountain performance.
The AsymFrame and highback are tool-free which means you can make quick adjustments on the fly to get the perfect setup and fit.
The simple design of the Voodoo makes them reliable in terms of performance and comfort. That makes them good for beginner and intermediate riders trying to improve their skills on the mountain.
A full-length EVA footbed adds cushioning and comfort, and it also has a crash pad heel that helps absorb impacts and reduce chatter at higher speeds.
3D molded straps come with flexible length adjusters that allow you to dial in the perfect fit.
There are some durability tradeoffs for the budget price on the Voodoo. These may not last more than a few seasons.
==> You can also get it on Rossignol or SidelineSwap.
4. Best for the Money: Nitro Staxx
- Best for: The Money
- Key features: A-Frame Base, EVA dampening, board saver technology, very affordable
- Flex: Medium
- Style: Strap-in
If you want the best binding for the money, look no further than the Nitro Staxx. These are some of the most affordable bindings around and still give you decent performance in many on-snow situations.
They come with an A-frame base that is support and stable. It delivers quality control and response from your feet to the board.
EVA dampening allows you to go big without worry and adds cushioning and impact resistance under your feet. Board Saver Technology helps to reduce friction and wear on your board and adds even more value.
I also really like the perfect fit ankle straps because they let you get tightened up quickly and won’t get loose when you ride hard.
The Staxx does have some tradeoff in durability and high-performance characteristics. These bindings work alright in most situations, but they don’t work great.
==> You can also get it on Evo or Nencini or SidelineSwap.
How to Choose The Best Budget Snowboard Bindings
Even though the options mentioned in this article are on the cheaper end, you still need to look out for certain elements that make up a quality binding. The below considerations will help you find the best budget binding for your needs.
Price
Snowboard bindings can have a fairly wide price range, with some costing $50 on the low end and some costing as much as $500 on the high end.
Generally, you get stronger and more durable materials at a higher price. They tend to come with better performance as well. There are some great options at lower prices; just know that the more you pay the better the item will be.
Quality
When creating a more affordable product, many companies cut corners by skimping on critical attributes.
If you’re looking for affordable bindings, always ensure the ones you pick are made from high-quality, long-lasting materials.
You don’t want to get a new pair every season. Avoid low-quality plastics or weak design elements that hinder the binding’s strength. Always read reviews before making your final purchase.
Binding Style
Most of the bindings here are strap-in style. This means two straps secure your boot inside the binding (and, in turn, your body onto the board).
Strap in bindings are the most common style and preferred by many riders. However, they are not the only choice out there.
Some people also like rear entry style bindings or step-on bindings that use special boots and attach when the rider steps onto the board.
Useful Tips & Resources
Bindings play an essential role in your snowboarding experience, but they don’t get as much attention as boards and boots. You don’t need to know everything about the science of how they work, but you should know how to pick a set that works for you.
Here is a good video explaining how to find the best bindings for your snowboard. It’s full of some good insight and worth a watch.
Another thing to keep in mind when looking for cheaper snowboarding gear, including bindings, is that you might be able to pick up a used set at a reasonable price.
You can check out CraigsList in your town or the ski town you visit to see if you can score a good deal on some used bindings.
Final Verdict
There are some pretty decent budget bindings on the market, but the best option is the Union STR. Union is one of my favorite binding brands, and this is the cheapest model in their lineup.
The other options in this list will give you quality performance and reliability while also coming with a very approachable price tag. They can be good for beginner and intermediate riders. Even though you’re on a budget, make sure you make a quality decision.
About Lorraine