WAKEBOARD BINDING 101

As in many industries, there is an abundance of misinformation in the wakeboard world.   The following tips come from years of experience in the industry, and are designed to cut through some of the tech talk and misleading jargon.  If you would like us to find you the perfect set of bindings for your needs, please email the following information for all riders to be using the bindings: Weight, Shoe size, Preferred style of riding, Ability level, Boat that you typically ride behind. 

1. Snug is what you are after.  The most common mistake in fitting wakeboard bindings is buying them too large.  Your bindings are your sole attachment to the board.  Controlling your new ride with loose fitting bindings is like typing with winter gloves on.  The wakeboard binding should not be thought of as an accessory.  It is equal in importance to the board.  Often we hear, "my bindings are to tight...I need lubricant to get into them".  The truth is, you will need lubricant to get into a binding that fits correctly.  Do not try to enter your bindings dry, it should not work.

2. Performance bindings are designed to fit 2-3 shoe sizes only.  Typically: Small = 4-7, Medium = 7-9, Large = 9-11, X L = 11-13, XXL = 13-15.  This is the overall range of the binding, but you may need to individualize the straps for a precise fit.  Many riders choose to make this adjustment themselves, but it can be tricky to get the bindings back together, so consider letting your pro shop make the adjustments if needed.

3. Adjustable and Sandal style bindings are a good option for new riders, but sacrifice the snug fit mentioned above.  If you need to get everyone on the boat into one binding, then these are  the answer.  If you are want to improve rapidly and are seeking out maximum performance, then look for a more secure model.  Aerial and invert maneuvers are no fun on adjustables.

4. Many riders choose to have their own set of bindings.  You may be able to share a high performance board between a group of friends within 60 lbs of each other.  This same group may choose to individually own bindings to optimize performance.  Remember, bindings may easily be swapped out on the boat between rides.

5. Bindings which are too loose can be equally dangerous as those which are too tight.  Coming out prematurely, or unexpectedly, can be more dangerous than staying in.

6. Expect to pull.  You will have to pull hard to enter a good set of bindings.  Do not let this deter you.  It is part of the sport, and will result in a superior ride.

7. Always read any labeling or information provided by the manufacturer.  All bindings are designed and fit differently.  The manufacturer's advice should be taken as the last word on the fit of their product.