When it comes to wakeboarding one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right wakeboard bindings. These bindings are the key to support, control and comfort to ride and trick on the water. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced rider choosing the right wake boots is crucial to your wakeboarding experience.
In this guide we’ll go through the different types of bindings, key features to look out for and how to choose the right ones for you.
What are Wakeboard Bindings?
Wakeboard bindings, also known as wake boots, connect your feet to the wakeboard. They provide stability, control, and comfort while riding. The bindings you choose directly affect how well you control the board, how comfortable you feel during your ride, and how well you can perform tricks and stunts. For top-quality wakeboard bindings and accessories, check out Get On The Water, where you’ll find a range of options to enhance your wakeboarding experience.
Types of Wakeboard Bindings
Wakeboard bindings come in different styles to suit different riding styles, skill levels and rider preferences. Let’s break them down:
- Open Toe Bindings
Open toe boots are perfect for beginners or those sharing equipment. These bindings are more adjustable so a wider range of foot sizes can fit in. The open design also gives more freedom for the toes so you can adjust your fit on the fly.
Best For: Beginners and those looking for more versatility. - Closed Toe Bindings
If you want precision and more control closed toe bindings are for riders who want a tighter fit. These bindings are made for your foot size and give more support which is good for more advanced riders.
Best For: Intermediate riders and advanced riders who want performance and comfort. - System Boots
System boots are a two piece setup where the boots are separate from the bindings. This setup gives excellent response and allows for more customization of fit and performance. They’re perfect for riders who want to be able to adjust their setup for maximum performance.
Best For: Riders who want an advanced performance setup.
What to Look Out For in Wakeboard Bindings
When choosing your wakeboard bindings consider:
Fit and Comfort
Fit is key to comfort and performance. Make sure they’re not too tight or too loose. A snug fit means your feet will stay in place which is essential for control of the board. You can get walk liners in some bindings to help you walk when you’re off the water.
Flex and Response
- Soft Flex: Good for beginners or freestyle/ trick riding. More freedom of movement and easier to learn.
- Stiff Flex: For advanced riders, more precision and response for high speed and intense tricks.
Closure System
The closure system on your wakeboard bindings determines how well and how secure your feet are held in place. Common systems are:
- Laces: Classic and adjustable so you can customize the fit.
- Velcro Straps: Quick and easy to adjust but may not give as precise a fit as laces.
- Boa System: Gives even more control with a dial to adjust tightness evenly.
Binding Materials and Durability
Durable materials mean your bindings will last season after season. High end boots give excellent comfort, fit and performance even during intense sessions in the cable park or behind a boat.
Top Brands to Check out for Wakeboard Bindings
Several brands have built a reputation for making high end wakeboard bindings to suit different riding styles and needs. These are:
- Hyperlite Wakeboard Bindings: Known for their innovative designs and high performance features, Hyperlite bindings give great precision and comfort for beginners and advanced riders.
- Ronix Wakeboard Bindings: Custom fit and high performance for intermediate to advanced riders.
- O’Brien Wakeboard Bindings: Good balance of comfort and response for riders who want style and performance.
- Liquid Force: Versatile and comfortable for all levels of riders.
- Slingshot: Durable and flexible for freestyle riders and those who want to send it.
- Connelly: Performance and comfortable fit, favorite among intermediate to advanced riders.
How to Choose your Wakeboard Bindings
To choose the right wakeboard bindings consider:
Skill Level
If you’re a beginner open toe boots are great as they give more flexibility and are adjustable. For intermediate riders a closed toe binding may be better, more control and precision. Advanced riders look for high performance bindings that give great response and support.
Freestyle Riders
Soft flex and open toe boots for more movement.
Cable Park Riders
Bindings with good support and a snug fit and a reliable closure system for control.
Boat Riders
Closed toe bindings for more control during high speed and trick riding.
Foot Size
Make sure to choose the right size for your foot. Some bindings come in sizes like UK 6, UK 9, US 7 so always check the size chart to find the right fit for your feet.
Price Range
Your budget will come into play when choosing your bindings. While high end brands like Hyperlite and Ronix have all the bells and whistles, there are more affordable options that give great comfort and performance for beginners or intermediate riders.
Summary
Choosing the right wakeboard bindings is key to your comfort, performance and safety on the water. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro the right bindings will take your wakeboarding to the next level. Remember to consider fit, flex, closure system and brand when you make your decision.
With the right pair of wakeboard boots you’ll feel more confident, ride better and have more fun on the water.
