Feedback on snowboard bindings with skiboards
February 17, 2012 | 
Author Heard from a few customers now and definitely the comfort of snowboard boots is a favorite. While some have said there is no loss in performance, others have commented that there is a slight lag yet would not go back to regular ski boots and just something to get used to. I think there is a new trend with skiboards that is starting and it is exciting to watch the evolution of it. Let us know your experiences.
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Snowboard Bindings and Performance on Skiboards
No question that snowboard boots are simply more comfortable than ski boots, even our Alpina X5 boots. There is no question that ski boots and skiboards provide great performance, especially with the higher quality models like Summits. However, we are constantly asked about the difference in performance. So here is the best we can say so far.
Skiboards with 4 stainless steel inserts can accommodate any snowboard bindings. Yet, a riser kit is necessary to give proper elevation so the bindings don’t catch when carving. Our new Rocker Riser Kit serves that purpose. So snowboard bindings will now work on skiboards.
Yet, do they perform as well as skiboard-specific non-release or ski bindings? While we have heard from some of our customers, we are still reserving our opinion until we hear from more. Not everyone rides the same – some like aggressive lay-it-over carves, others like playing in the parts, others having fun in the trees and bumps. What we have heard so far though is that using snowboard boots with skiboards is very comfortable. We do know that the Rocker Snowboard Bindings with Riser Kit perform great. This aluminum binding features 3 straps, a wrap around cuff at the top and riser beneath.
Given this, considering most may be using their own snowboard bindings, the answer is not sure yet. Given the Rocker Riser kit, and the 3rd booster strap that we offer, and given good snowboard boots, these should perform just fine and similar to regular alpine bindings. However, what remains to be seen is if the riser takes some getting used to for those who are already riding skiboards with alpine bindings. The riser gives 1 1/4″ rise. Typically we don’t recommend risers with alpine bindings, however this is a unique situation.
Those of you who have already ridden skiboards and now ride skiboards with snowboard bindings and boots, let us know what you think. Our sponsored rider loved them (having ridden them with snowboard bindings). We want more feedback however.
One more thing. If you are just looking for an easy day of cruising, playing on the slopes, maybe hanging with the kids, these skiboards with snowboard bindings will be fine. However, what remains to be seen is if these will stand up and perform for aggressive riders. We believe they will, but we would like to hear more.
Lastly, keep in mind that snowboard bindings require 2 leashes – one for each foot – and do not release in a fall. Though skiboards are shorter than skis or snowboards, there is always a chance of injury with non-releasing bindings. For those pioneers who have made the switch, happy trails, you on the leading edge of a whole new riding technology.
Happy 2012!
Here is to all – hope you have a great new year and one that proves healthy, happy and prosperous. From the Staff at Skiboards.com
More about Snowboard Bindings and Skiboards
As this is really the first season when offering the ability to use snowboard boots with skiboards, there have been some questions I want to address. First, snowboard boots are comfortable and easier to walk in. To use them, you need snowboard bindings. Now mounted to skiboards you need skiboards with inserts (standard 40mm X 40mm pattern). Since snowboard bindings typically flare out at the front, these would normally catch on the snow when performing particularly lay over carves. To prevent them from catching, a riser kit is needed to give enough elevation so they don’t catch. We offer the Rocker Riser Kit for this purpose.
If you already have your own snowboard bindings, then you only need the riser kit (comes with two size screws to accommodate your bindings). You then need skiboards that feature inserts – this is the Summit Jade 87 cm, Nomad 99 cm or Custom 110 cm. These can all be mounted with snowboard bindings so you can use snowboard boots (like our Board Factory Rage boots) to ride.
One more thing – for maximum performance you need total transfer of weight to your edges. This is accomplished with a third booster strap towards the top of the bindings and your boots. We offer this in our online store. The other option if you don’t already have snowboard bindings is to purchase the Rocker snowboard bindings that includes a third strap as well as built in risers.
This is all relatively new and skiboarding represents the only sport (like skiing) that offers this opportunity to use more comfortable boots with snowboard bindings. Now skiers who dislike the feel of ski boots have an alternative to snowboarding. This is really a first and almost a new sport in itself. Enjoy.
Join Us on Facebook
Hello everyone. You can now become a fan of our facebook page to receive inside news, ask questions, interact with other skiboarders around the world and more. Go to:
facebook.com/SkiboardsSuperstore
The more fans, the more the word gets out about how fun skiboarding is so others can return to the mountains and experience real liberation. Time to get our due recognition I say.
Summits Are Beautiful and Ready to Ride
hello everyone. The Summits were worth the wait. They are beautiful – almost a shame to ride them, almost! We now have the following Summits in stock with their binding options:
Summit Jade 87cm – skiboard non-release, ski release and snowboard bindings.
Summit Headwall 95 cm – ski release bindings.
Summit Freedom 99 cm – ski release bindings.
Summit Nomad 99 cm – skiboard non-release, ski release and snowboard bindings
Summit Custom 110 cm – skiboard non-release, ski release and snowboard bindings
Summit Marauder 125 cm – ski release bindings
In particular, I have to say that these Custom 110 Bamboo are gorgeous. I’m going to mount a pair on my wall. For more details visit the website under Summit.
Questions about Snowboard Bindings and Skiboards
There has always been a lot of interest in using snowboard boots with skiboards. The key to this combo is having a riser kit so the snowboard bindings are raised up a little from your skiboards so that the edges of the snowboard bindings do not catch. Once solved, as with our Rocker Riser Kit, any snowboard binding can be mounted with proper length screws of course (included in the Riser Kits) to the skiboards. Skiboards need to include 4 stainless steel inserts in order to accept the snowboard bindings. The Summit Jade 87, Nomad 99 and Custom 110 all feature these insert patterns and thus can be mounted with snowboard bindings.
Those who are used to regular ski boots with skiboards may have a slight adjustment to get used to riding with the softer snowboard boots. After that, you can still go anywhere on the mountain you could with the skiboards-ski boot combo. The great advantage however is now walking to and from the resort is so much more comfortable. Check our PH-710 bindings snowboard bindings, Rocker Riser Kit and our Board Factory Rage snowboard boots for the ideal combination.
Tags: Alpina Boots are arriving!
These boots we selected for skiboarding are awesome. 2012 model and the perfect flex and stance for riding skiboards. The Alpina X5 is priced right at $185 and in a full range of sizes. We have been with Alpina for many years and they make excellent quality boots. Check them out.
Wolf Creek Opens!
Well everyone – time to get jealous. Wolf Creek Resort (1 hour away) opened this weekend for the 8th and 9th of October. The first resort to open in the country, they had a 36″ base and great coverage. Must say, had to do some product testing (not really). Runs were great, it was still snowing and couldn’t believe how great it was. This was the earliest opening for Wolf Creek. They do not have snowmaking and it was all natural. Yeah, the season has started and coming your way.
Skiboards.com Carry Bags Now In – Charcoal/Black
The new skiboards.com bags have arrived. That is, our Charcoal/Black bags in 100 cm and 125 cm. The black bags will arrive in another month. These bags are extended to accommodate skiboards not only with non-release bindings but also with mounted release bindings and even snowboard bindings.