Blax Step-In Review:
by Mark North |
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Blax I-Spine Valdez ($309) is another step-in model that feels and fits like a comfortable traditional soft boot. A lace-up liner provides what this rider feels is still the most effective internal support, with ratcheting ankle strap and Velcro heel strap bolstering the external laces. |
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| A micro-adjustable internal highback provides the heelside response and forward lean of traditional bindings, with a quick-release option for easy walking and hiking. |
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| Sticking out above the cuff is a T-shaped knob that releases the boot from the binding, by retracting the small metal pin on each side of the sole. It's easier to reach than any other step-in release mechanism, but since it sits alongside your calf--under your riding pants--make sure you don't mind yanking up on your pants every time you need to get out of your bindings.
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| Speaking of bindings, the Blax Step-In ($59) is a simple, strong, lightweight metal anchor for the boot's pins, with no moving parts, and just a thin plastic baseplate underneath. One drawback is that you can't change the position of the binding in relation to the edges of the board--it's always centered edgewise. Another minus is that 3D compatibility will cost you $40 more. |
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| Leave your own review of the Blax step-in binding.
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