Kiting with snowboard modifications to the bindings?

[jeff]

Is there a set of bindings for snowboards that are geard for kiters? I mean this:

I ride sandal bindings in the summer, and I really like being able to get in and out of the bindings so easily. BUT, in the winter I have to buckle into my snowboard. I've noticed cheapo Target boards have"boot-sandal" type bindings, and I want to know if anyone has tried making modifications to their board to make them similar to this?

Anyone?

Thanks,
Jeff

[bmr]

Hey Jeff,

Sorry, I haven't. However I have thought about getting step-ins rather than the ol' buckle in type. I've had problems in the past with lines popping the buckle release inadvertently when launching/relaunching. Other than that, I like the feel of being 110% connected with my board, especially when airborne, in deep powder, or leaning way back to edge out an up-wind pass.

Sorry I couldn't have been more help.

-BMR

[JERRY]

Hi Jeff,

Stay connected to the board like BMR says. Keeping the board under you're feet prevents twisting injurys(ACL & fractures) which could occur if one or both feet release.
I use Switch type step-in bindings which require compatable boots. These I can step in while kite is in zenith. On the minus side they do accumulate snow which needs to be cleared with glove before stepping in.
Eric uses Flow step-ins which is sweet and very comfortable. You could use you're current boots with this binding. Either binding The House carrys.

Happy riding.

Jerry

[jeff]

The Flow looks really cool. I'll have to take a look at yours Eric next time I see you on the snow.

Your telling me that you can get in and out of your bindings pretty easy with the kite UP in the neutral position?

Jeff

[Eric S]

The Flow looks really cool. I'll have to take a look at yours Eric next time I see you on the snow.

Your telling me that you can get in and out of your bindings pretty easy with the kite UP in the neutral position?

Jeff

First I must say somthing about having the kite "up in the neutral possition" You must always have the kite off to one side or the other, never directly over head if possible. If a big puff comes along you will not have any options on kite control.

I now, after reading many posts and experince, consider "a kite in the neutral possition" as a kite that is about 1 to 5 meters above the ground on either side of the window.

Your expereince may vary. If you are not able to keep a kite under strict control a few meters off the ground on either side of the window, please yell loudly at me so I can get out of your, and harms, way.

Thanks!


I think they call this serendipity or somthing. Jerry just clued us on a bunch of new flows at powder ridge. They are the rental version, very adjustable on the fly. with the quick relase toe you can change from regular to goofy in just a few mins.

Here are some pictures:

In the box: http://www.downhaul.com/misc/030209/flow-box.jpg

All the parts: http://www.downhaul.com/misc/030209/flow-parts.jpg

They are not the most current binding that flow makes but they work super good for kiting and riding.

Let us know if you are interested in buying a set before I buy out all the remaining stock! (just kidding!)

[jeff]

Eric,

How would I get a pair of those rental flows? Clue me in on the details please.

Jeff

[Eric S]

Oops, go to http://www.powderridge.com/ Phone them or go out there. They had a bunch of them left in all sizes still. Go to http://www.flow.com and see what size would be the best for you boots. I have size 11 and I got a set of XL's I think Large would work too for that size.

Here's a link to the new ones. http://www.flow.com/products/bindings/fl5rental.php

The ones powder ridge has are not current. I don't know what year they are. Check the sizing chart on the link for the best size for your boot M,L,XL They are asking 50 bucks per pair.

[SCOTT RIDOUT]

Oops, go to http://www.powderridge.com/ Phone them or go out there. They had a bunch of them left in all sizes still. Go to http://www.flow.com and see what size would be the best for you boots. I have size 11 and I got a set of XL's I think Large would work too for that size.

Here's a link to the new ones. http://www.flow.com/products/bindings/fl5rental.php

The ones powder ridge has are not current. I don't know what year they are. Check the sizing chart on the link for the best size for your boot M,L,XL They are asking 50 bucks per pair.

I have a pair ofthese bindings, they are the best thing since sliced bread man!!! I just started snowboarding this year and they have made my learning curve fast and enjoyable. All you do is literally step into them reach back and pull the heel support up and snap the lock forward, easy as pie. You don' have to sit down or anything!!! And they are very very comfortable and when they are on they are on, you WILL NOT loose your board. I will be out for the Red Bull kite Freeze on Saturday taking a three hour lesson with real kiteboarding , you are more than welcome to try them out!! I'll be out there around 10am and my lessons are at 1pm.

[jeff]

Thanks. Picked a pair of these bindings up. It's kind of what I originally had in mind, it will work. I guess unlike in the water it's probably better to always have a board attached to your feet. I've had a couple of jumps that have pulled me out of my sandal bindings before, and I bet that would suck on snow. These look easy to get into.

BTW, it looks like Powder Ridge is out of the XL. They have a few L and M left though. They've noticed that quite a few kiters have been coming through picking up these bindings.

See you on the lake with my new Flow bindings!

Jeff

[Pete]

Regarding the Flow SYSTEM. Those bindings will work with whatever boots you have but for the ultimate in comfort, compatability and performance you really should pick up a pair of Flow boots. They are really lightweight and designed specifically for those bindings. Enjoy!

[steveb]

Just a heads up, sportmart are selling Flows. They are last years stock and well reduced, they have the fl11 (freeride) and fl 19 (freestyle) about $60 to $70 below the normal retail.
Randy at the house is out of flows, the rep told me about this source and I got my honey a pair of fl 11 for $130.
As a foot note they work great for regular snowboarding too, don't get suckered into riding their boots though, they are not too well designed yet.

[jeff]

Just a heads up, sportmart are selling Flows. They are last years stock and well reduced, they have the fl11 (freeride) and fl 19 (freestyle) about $60 to $70 below the normal retail.
Randy at the house is out of flows, the rep told me about this source and I got my honey a pair of fl 11 for $130.
As a foot note they work great for regular snowboarding too, don't get suckered into riding their boots though, they are not too well designed yet.

When you snowboard, don't the backs get in the way when you're waiting in line for the lift?

Hey everyone, now I need a good deal on a big wide snowboard!

Jeff

[steveb]

I just flick up the highback into a vertical position, it's never been a problem. I use the Pro s fr model.
Just for info I have tried both the scope and grind version of their boots, I was not too impressed. It is almost impossible to get the ankle flex needed to perform a low toeside turn. The tongue on the boots is too stiff.
If you are looking for Flow bindings Hi Tempo on hiway 61 in white bear lake has a good stock, I was in their yesterday. They have some lowered prices on a variety of models.