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| by Mark North |
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Entering their fourth season on the market, step-in bindings are
beginning to win rider preference over traditional setups--for performance as much as for convenience. |
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| Step-in manufacturers originally seemed to focus their R&D; on anchoring the boot to the board, and most current step-in bindings serve that purpose equally. Some are easier to get in and out of, and some perform better than others, but the true key to step-in success is the boots. |
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| Manufacturers are still experimenting and honing techniques of integrating the response offered by traditional highbacks and straps into a step-in package--usually in the boot. This season's evolution of boots brings performance and comfort to a new high, and look for that standard to jump when Burton and Salomon finally
decide whether to go with their own systems or back one that is already
in production.
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| When choosing a step-in system, first find the boots that fit you and your style of riding best. Then experiment with the bindings and try a few systems, always keeping boots a priority in picking the right package. A number of boot manufacturers offer step-in compatible models, so check with the binding company for additional boot options if your shop doesn't carry them. |
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| Boot/Binding Index | First Review (DNR) |