Review: Nidecker Supermatic Snowboard Bindings · 2024
By Snowboarding Expert
Mike French
7 photos
The Curated Take
3.6/5
The Nidecker Supermatic snowboard bindings offer responsive and comfortable performance for snowboarders of any skill level, with the adaptability to fit nearly any boot. The bindings, while heavier than alternatives, provide high durability, shock absorption, and the convenience of a step-in and strap-on system, perfect for terrain diversity. This adjustability, along with the added security of the active strap technology, makes it perfect for those who prioritize versatile functionality and comfort, despite limited movement of straps to different positions. Be prepared for some instances of loosening screws, though the issue is being addressed by the manufacturer.
Ideal for
- Compatible with most boots on the market today.
- Quick in and out ease of use—hop off the lift, slide in, and ride away.
- Use as a traditional two-strap binding for strapping in on steep terrain or deep snow.
Not ideal for
- Heavier than a traditional binding.
- Movement required to easily engage the bindings takes some practice and getting used to.
- Ratchets and ladders can be difficult to engage when using a traditional two-strap binding.
Responsiveness
The heavy-duty construction of the Nidecker Supermatic makes for a responsive binding that works in all terrain but especially excels while carving groomers or hitting the powder. The active strap...Read more
Buttering
The Nidecker Supermatic is a medium-stiff all-mountain binding. They are great in many areas and a versatile binding that performs well on groomers, powder, and in the terrain park. Their...Read more
Boot Adjustability
The Nidecker Supermatics have top-notch boot adjustability. Their universal design can fit nearly any boot on the market. The bindings have easy-to-use, tool-less boot adjustability. The bindings adjust to accommodate...Read more
Comfort
The unique design of the Nidecker Supermatic bindings allows riders to adjust the fit with the two traditional straps and lock them in place for the day. At the same...Read more
Adjustability
The Nidecker Supermatic does not have all the adjustability features or other strap-in bindings. The unique design of the binding doesn't allow for such adjustments as strap placement and adjustability....Read more
Durability
The Nidecker Supermatics are built with heavy-duty components and high-quality construction. There were noted instances during the 2022 season of binding failure due to the lack of adequate thread lock...Read more
Shock Absorption
Nidecker has been in the binding game for a long time and purchased Flow Bindings in 2017. They've combined their most popular features and tried and true components from bindings...Read more
Weight
Because the Nidecker Supermatics can function both as a traditional strap binding and a step-in binding, they are heavier than most traditional bindings and substantially heavier than alternative step-in systems....Read more
Expert Reviews of the Nidecker Supermatic Snowboard Bindings
Mike French The Nidecker Supermatics are the future of snowboarding. Their unique versatility as a traditional two-strap and step-in binding is truly revolutionary. Specific boots are required with other brands' step-in bindings, limiting one's options. The Supermatics are compatible with nearly any boot on the market, and the many points of adjustability ensure a snug and secure fit. Their heavy-duty construction and versatility add to the overall weight of the product. Still, the ease of use and convenience easily offset the added weight. These bindings are perfect for the budget-conscious rider who may not be ready to upgrade their boots but is looking for the convenience of a step-in binding. Get ready for endless days of awesome on the mountain with these modern marvels of snowboarding engineering. And, no more sitting in the cold snow to get strapped in off the lift!
Product Specs
| Age Group | Adult |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Model year | 2025 |
| Binding style | Strap |
| Binding mount pattern | 2x4, 4x4, Burton 3D, Channel |
| Flex | Stiff |
Review Ratings
Responsiveness
4/5
Mike French gave 4 of 5 stars. The heavy-duty construction of the Nidecker Supermatic makes for a responsive binding that works in all terrain but especially excels while carving groomers or hitting the powder. The active strap technology makes for a firm fit that's responsive and comfortable. The locking ratchets and the step-in technology allow for the same precise fit on each run. The design of the Supermatic allows the rider to set up their binding for the day and then use the reclining high back to enter and exit the binding. This helps dial in fit and helps the rider with a consistent fit run after run, ultimately leading to more consistent riding and the same level of responsiveness on every run.
Buttering
3/5
Mike French gave 3 of 5 stars. The Nidecker Supermatic is a medium-stiff all-mountain binding. They are great in many areas and a versatile binding that performs well on groomers, powder, and in the terrain park. Their heavy-duty construction gives them a secure and desirable connection with nearly any snowboard. When it comes to buttering, proper snowboard board choice with medium or soft flex will help with butters and other press tricks. The Nidecker Supermatic is not the lightest binding on the market and likely not the best freestyle binding available for butters, but if one is a strong rider looking to up get more laps in, the convenience of Nidecker's dual-entry system and its compatibility with nearly any boot and board on the market, make it a solid binding choice.
Boot Adjustability
5/5
Mike French gave 5 of 5 stars. The Nidecker Supermatics have top-notch boot adjustability. Their universal design can fit nearly any boot on the market. The bindings have easy-to-use, tool-less boot adjustability. The bindings adjust to accommodate any boot designed for strap bindings. The bindings will not accommodate boots designed specifically for other brands' step-in systems, such as Burton or K2. The Nidecker system welcomes any traditional snowboard boot with open arms. Whether it's someone's old boots they're hoping to get one last season out of or brand new boots, the Nidecker Supermatics work with them for a secure and snug fit. The locking mechanisms that actually secure the straps in place can be somewhat difficult to use, especially with a brand-new pair of bindings. Still, once they're properly adjusted, they stay firmly in place and allow for a precision fit.
Comfort
4/5
Mike French gave 4 of 5 stars. The unique design of the Nidecker Supermatic bindings allows riders to adjust the fit with the two traditional straps and lock them in place for the day. At the same time, the rear entry step-on system is used to get in and out of the binding. This unique feature allows for consistent comfort throughout the riding day and tool-less adjustability. There is an additional third strap that Nidecker calls "Active Strap Technology," over the top of the binding that helps keep one's boot snug and comfortable while spreading out pressure equally over the top of your whole foot.
Adjustability
3/5
Mike French gave 3 of 5 stars. The Nidecker Supermatic does not have all the adjustability features or other strap-in bindings. The unique design of the binding doesn't allow for such adjustments as strap placement and adjustability. It's easy-to-adjust strap length accommodates different boot sizes, but the binding's design doesn't allow for movement of the ankle strap or toe strap to other positions as one might find on some higher-end bindings. They offer more adjustment than other step-in bindings and have standard forward lean adjusters. The features that set this binding apart are its dual entry, universal, and automatic features. The convenience of a step-in system that fits nearly any boot and that the binding can be used as a step-in or strap binding are unique features that limit overall adjustability compared to similarly priced strap bindings.
Durability
3/5
Mike French gave 3 of 5 stars. The Nidecker Supermatics are built with heavy-duty components and high-quality construction. There were noted instances during the 2022 season of binding failure due to the lack of adequate thread lock on all the screws. Because of the high level of engineering and complexity of the binding, there are more moving parts than a traditional strap binding. Nidecker has addressed these concerns and quickly sent spare parts and extra thread locks to consumers with issues. The problem will likely be addressed in future iterations of the bindings. It is strongly suggested that all screws on the binding are checked periodically to ensure proper tightness.
Shock Absorption
4/5
Mike French gave 4 of 5 stars. Nidecker has been in the binding game for a long time and purchased Flow Bindings in 2017. They've combined their most popular features and tried and true components from bindings across Flow's and Nidecker's lineup to create a revolutionary new universal, automatic, and dual-entry binding. The footbed for the Nidecker Supermatic is constructed with glass-filled nylon and was designed specifically for the Supermatic. The slip and grip plate helps the boot slide over the footbed without comprising shock absorption. The canted footbed, padded baseplate, and robust construction bindings contribute to its shock absorption. Lastly, because the Nidecker Supermatic is compatible with any boot, one can increase shock absorption overall by choosing the proper boots.
Weight
3/5
Mike French gave 3 of 5 stars. Because the Nidecker Supermatics can function both as a traditional strap binding and a step-in binding, they are heavier than most traditional bindings and substantially heavier than alternative step-in systems. The Nidecker Supermatics are not the ideal option for riders looking for an ultra-light setup. They are stiffer bindings built with quality components and construction. The functionality adds weight but also adds supreme convenience and durability. Not to mention, snowboarding is a gravity sport, so a little extra weight adds to one's downhill momentum, ultimately making one ride faster. The overall convenience of the bindings far outweighs the inconvenience of a little added weight, and it should be noted they are not the lightest bindings out there.
FAQs
Why did you choose this product?
Mike French I chose the Nidecker Supermatics because I wanted a step-in binding that could work with my current boots. I am a snowboard instructor for Vail Resorts, and getting in and out of my bindings easily was a key selling point for me. Also, I just purchased new boots last season and didn't want to spend the additional money on step-in bindings that require a specific boot. The Nidecker Supermatics allows me to change between boards while wearing the same boots quickly and offers the convenience of easily getting in and out of my bindings. While the Supermatics are on the upper end for price, they were less expensive than buying new boots and bindings.
What is the value for the money versus other options?
Mike French The Nidecker Supermatics are on the higher end when it comes to the cost of bindings. Still, their value is in that they are a step-on binding and a traditional strap binding. Some step-on binding systems are difficult to engage or release in steep terrain or deep snow. With the Supermatics, one can use the straps to get buckled in if they are in terrain that doesn’t allow for step-in initiation. Also, they are compatible with nearly every boot on the market. Suppose a rider wants to get a pair of step-in bindings but doesn’t want to spend additional money on new boots to work with those new bindings. In that case, the Supermatics offer a reasonable value for the convenience of a step-in binding without the added cost. Also, if they have multiple boards in their quiver but only one pair of boots, the Supermatics give them the option of having multiple setups without swapping boots and bindings across boards.
What do you love about this product?
Mike French I love that the Nidecker Supermatics are easy to use and work with any boot on the market. As a snowboard instructor, I am in and out of my bindings all day long, and the added convenience of being able to step into my binding makes for a more seamless lesson for my students. Also, when given free ride time during the day, I can get more laps in because these bindings are quick getting into off the lift.
