An Expert Guide to Salomon Bindings


Photo courtesy of Salomon
TL;DR: Salomon makes snowboard bindings for every gender, riding style, and skill level. Those on the hunt for new snowboard bindings should consider what kind of binding will suit their riding style the best. You will need to consider features such as binding flex, board compatibility, and proper sizing to be sure you get the ideal Salomon bindings for you.
I’ve been riding for over 10 years, and I know a thing or two about snowboard bindings. I love my snowboard, but it wouldn’t be as effective on the snow if I didn’t also have a pair of quality bindings. This year, I ride a 2024 Capita DOA fitted with some Now Pilot Bindings that suit my riding preferences perfectly.
Choosing bindings can be confusing. There are so many choices — which ones do you choose? Curated Snow Sports Experts like me are here to help answer questions such as this. Reach out to a Curated Snow Sports Expert today and get yourself a pair of bindings that is ideal for you.
Who Is Salomon?
Salomon is one of the world’s most definitive snowboard brands. From jackets and pants to snowboards and bindings, this brand does it all. Since its inception, the company has been a frontrunner for innovative gear in skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities, which is why they are qualified to make snowboard bindings.
The brand traces its origins back to the late 1940s in the French Alps. At the time, the small company produced beveled ski edges. Times have changed and, while the brand is still known for its skis, the company is often identified by its footwear. Salomon pays keen attention to the needs of athletes and their footwear. The brand understands the importance of performance, which is why it manufactures its snowboard bindings to tailor to the needs of snowboarders and their riding styles.
What to Consider When Buying Salomon Bindings
Photo courtesy of Salomon
When buying a pair of bindings, it’s important to consider what kind of rider you are. You’ll want to buy a pair of bindings that is tailored to your riding style. Additionally, you’ll want to buy bindings that fit your budget (snowboarding ain’t cheap!).
Do I Need Traditional or Step-in Bindings?
Salomon does NOT make step-in bindings (yet). If you buy Salomon bindings, make sure you have a pair of snowboard boots that are compatible. Most step-in boots are only compatible with step-in bindings. Until Salomon makes step-in bindings, you won’t have to worry about this.
What Is My Experience Level?
Buying the right pair of bindings for your skill level is just as important as buying a pair for your riding style. If you are a beginner, I’d recommend the Salomon Pact Snowboard Bindings. They have a soft, forgiving flex, and they’ll work just fine for a couple of seasons while you improve your snowboarding skills.
How Much Should I Expect to Spend?
Snowboard bindings can be expensive. The best budget option, in my opinion, is the Salomon Rhythm Bindings; ideal for beginners and intermediates. While they might not be as durable or have as good toe response, these offer solid freestyle performance capabilities. You should expect to spend anywhere between $200 and $300 on a pair of bindings.
What Are the Different Types of Salomon Bindings?
You can break down Salomon snowboard bindings into three main categories: freeride, all-mountain, and freestyle. Freeride snowboarding is in the backcountry, where there are no other riders or ski patrol to rescue you. All-mountain refers to the kind of snowboarding one might do within resort boundaries; a mix of everything. Freestyle snowboarding is all about tricks and often happens in the terrain park.
Freeride bindings tend to have a stiff flex, while all-mountain bindings have a medium flex. Freestyle bindings tend to have a soft flex for maximum playfulness in the park.
Most of the bindings on this list come with a laundry list of features, including tool-less adjustment for better tightening. Salomon bindings are compatible with most existing mounting systems.
Freestyle
Photo by Salomon
Those who spend lots of time in the park should use a binding that has a soft or medium flex rating. You’ll want a pair of bindings with comfortable and durable straps. Responsiveness and comfort are a must, and decent heel hold is important, too.
The 2024 Salomon Trigger Snowboard Bindings are the ideal blend of forgiving and responsive, flexible enough to make anyone a park rat. This medium flex binding is responsive and stable and offers solid value for the price point. It is an ideal choice for intermediate riders looking for a reliable setup.
Freeride / Backcountry
Photo by Salomon
Riders in the off-piste scene need a binding that exudes stability, which usually entails stiffness and responsiveness. A taller highback helps and lightweight yet stable straps are crucial.
The 2024 Salomon Quantum Snowboard Bindings are super stiff and are superb for backcountry and aggressive resort riding. Their stiff build offers unmatched power, stability, and performance in the backcountry. Although this is a high-performance binding, it comes with universal disc compatibility and adjustable straps. Its quality ratchet is durable and makes for easy adjustments.
All-Mountain
Photo by Salomon
Those who like to ride groomers, hit the park, and surf some pow need a binding that does it all. A binding with a medium flex rating is ideal. While decent straps and highbacks are important, quality comfort is what helps riders ride for longer. Salomon’s baseplate Blaster Tech helps cushion landings and makes carving more comfortable.
The 2024 Salomon Hologram Snowboard bindings would be my recommendation for any guy or gal looking to tear up the mountain this winter. These medium-flex bindings are ideal for intermediate and advanced riders. The straps on these are both comfortable and durable and would be an awesome addition to any all-mountain snowboard. Heel-side turn transitions to the toe edge should feel immaculate
Features to Look Out for When Buying Salomon Bindings
Depending on what kind of snowboarder you are, you’ll want to look for some features to elevate your game.
Flex Rating
Choosing a binding is a little bit easier when you know what kind of flex you want. Stiff flex is great for freeride snowboarding and aggressive riding. Medium flex is perfect for all-mountain shredding. Soft flex bindings are well-suited for beginners and park rats because they offer comfort and forgiveness.
Benefits:
- The correct flex rating enhances your riding experience concerning your preferred riding style.
- A binding’s flex can be a good indicator of one’s skill level.
Be Aware:
- Bindings that are too soft or too stiff can drastically affect the maneuverability of your board.
- Just because a binding has a medium flex does not mean it is suited for all-mountain snowboarding.
Board Compatibility
Bindings come with different mountain patterns such as 4x4, 2x4, and the channel system. Boards that have a 4x4 pattern are compatible with bindings that have either a 4x4 or 2x4 mountain pattern. The same is true for boards with a 2x4 pattern. The channel system is Burton’s mountain system that is only compatible with Burton bindings and other select snowboard bindings.
Benefits:
- Salomon bindings are typically compatible with most snowboard brands, so you can pair your favorite bindings with your favorite board.
- These systems allow riders to adjust the angle of their bindings on the board for a custom stance.
Be Aware:
- Not all bindings work with all snowboards!
- Just because you want Salomon bindings does not mean you need a Salomon snowboard.
Proper Sizing
Making sure your bindings are the right size for your boots and board is imperative. Here is a chart that will tell you all you need to know.
Benefits:
- The right-sized boot in the proper-sized binding makes riding all the easier.
- The correct size makes the difference in comfort.
Be Aware:
- Those with a 10+-size boot should consider a large-sized binding.
- Sometimes large-sized snowboard bindings mean you will need a wider snowboard.
How to Choose the Right Salomon Bindings
Now that you know all there is to know about Salomon bindings, let’s take a look at a few examples that might help you make a decision.
Stephen: Backcountry Newbie
Stephen is a seasoned rider, and this year he wants to explore the backcountry at a top destination. He is an advanced rider and needs a pair of bindings that are going to give him maximum support on volatile terrain.
Features Stephen should look for:
- Stiff bindings designed for aggressive riding
- Lightweight yet stable
Bindings to consider: 2024 Salomon Quantum Snowboard Bindings
Zoe: A Do-It-All Gal
Zoe is an all-terrain enthusiast and loves to ride all over the resort. She rides an all-terrain snowboard so she can hit the groomers, the park, and even some pow. She loves to hit big jumps and side hits but wants to protect her knees. She is also an advanced rider and needs a pair of bindings that reflect her skill level.
Features Zoe should look for:
- Bindings with shock-absorbing footbeds
- Comfortable and durable bindings
- Bindings with a strategic flex
Bindings to consider: 2024 Salomon Nesta Snowboard Bindings
Find the Best Salomon Bindings for You
Photo courtesy of Salomon
Bindings can be tough to choose. This brand, Salomon, is a good place to start because you know you are getting respected, quality products.
Your riding style is the most important thing to consider. Just like a snowboard, you’ll want to strap into a pair of bindings that are going to do you justice. Pick a binding that best fits your riding style and budget and start from there. If you are still unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Curated Snow Sports Expert for free, personalized advice. We are obsessed with customer satisfaction.e