- Check out the Burton Photon Step On Boots from top to bottom. ua-cam.com/video/bu-DtZTJWIk/v-deo.html You'll see how they look, hear my thoughts on how they feel, and see the double Boa lacing in action. Plus you’ll see a simple trick that helps get your foot into the boot a little easier.
I have them already a couple of years, from the beginning. Absolutely great. Very responsive, very easy to get in and out even in the deep snow. Game changer.
For anyone on the fence, i got step ons this year and they have been an absolute game changer. I didnt have issues with strapping in, but the time and energy saved means more laps and less soreness at the end of the day. Truly in love with them!
Saw somebody using these and talked with him about them. Now this is at the top of my feed. Of course. Still I appreciate the info. The system looks solid.
Old and disabled here. Got them so I could ride more comfortably. I see a lot of people talking about the twist when stepping out so I did the same at first but once I got more of a feel for them I was able to figure out that you don’t actually need to lift your heal that much once you lock the release lever in place. You can then just step forward and the boot comes right out. When I first had them I was lifting my heal too much which caused the front cleats to get wedged in place and then I would need to twist my foot. Now I can just step out easy.
Thanks for the tip. It's weird that you mention it today because yesterday I noticed that I was releasing with basically a forward push of the foot. Very little to no twist. I wasn't paying any attention to my heel though. I'll try to be a little more aware next time out.
Absolute game changer for me! Usually easier for me to “StepON” while skating on a flat. Also, going to try switching the disconnect lever to the inside. Heard this helps.
I've seen a few people move the lever to the inside too. I haven't tried the movement to see it it's easier for me. Come back and let know how it works out for you.
Glad to see you got some 20th century gear (eventhough its step-ons , yeah im one of those) , alot has happened in binding tech lately. I bet you'd be happy with a new board as well!
I'm definitely looking forward to a new board. But not yet. In October I told myself that if I got on the slopes enough this season then a new board and bindings would be my reward next fall. However, the first day out was too much for my back and my reduction in flexibility so I caved and bought the Step Ons right away. I'm really glad that I did.
@@RustySnowboarder yea, sound like a nice goal/motivator for you to hit the slopes! ive been forcing myself into a yoga/stretch and diet > strenght and build and it has definetly helped. personally i dont need the step-ons (yet) and im not the biggest fan of burton - and if you get these binding the choice of boots are very limited. And getting the right boots are the most important thing! so im glad youre satisfied with you purchase! ;)
Agreed, I do what I can, but the body just isn't what it used to be. There are a couple other brands that make Step On boots but the options are definitely limited. I was also looking into the Clew bindings since they can be used with any boots. Not cheap either, but an interesting proposition.
@@RustySnowboarder Then im glad you got the burton-step ons! ill admit they definetly seem like the best choice of the step-on options out there. "angry snowboarder" just happened to post "The Clew Freedom 1.0 Snowboard Binding Review" 14 hours ago. I trust his reviews - spot on for all my boards and bindings - I think you dodged the bullet there 😅
Yeah, I saw that today too. Definitely a lot of good info. I also don't buy things without seeing in person so I wasn't all that close to getting them.
Always happy to see a newcomer to the sport. Hopefully you enjoy it for a long time. The Step On binding is great for ease of use and the Photon boot is very comfortable. From that perspective I think they're worth taking a look at. However they are not cheap. As a beginner it might be better to look at the traditional route and save some money until you're committed to snowboarding on a regular basis.
What boards do you use? Just got Photon boots with Genesis with a custom board. I'm 40 with a typical Dad gut and the straps are very uncomfortable to put on. Hoping this resolves it.
@ClintK. I've been riding a Burton Floater 164 that's over 20 years old now. It's a directional twin and it's a lot of board to move around in tight spaces. It's the maroon board in most of my videos. Last spring I picked up a United Shapes Cadet 162. I only got it out once at the end of the season and I love it so far. It's more of a traditional free ride shape that I think will suit me a little better. It's the white one in my last bunch of videos.
Wonderful. I went with the 162W. Should be a major upgrade. Been riding a starter board from the 90s called Vision. Looking forward to all the new upgrades. The idea back then was to buy a massive boot so you could put in 3 layers of socks. The old boots massive looking forward to the new tech with the Photon and wearing a normal 11.5W size instead of a 13 bucket. Appreciate your relatable videos.
00:45 That little clip cost me a $200 pair of pants. If your pant leg comes out of that clip, the material can jam in the heel locking mechanism and not release. I learned the hard way. After trying for 20 minutes to get it to unjam, we(the demo shop) had to cut the lower pant leg off to get my foot out, leaving my boot still attached. Another hour disassembling the whole binding back at the shop, and we(they) finally got the fabric out and was able to get the boot to release, saving the binding. Not so for my good pants. I have heard this is a reoccurring problem with these bindings. It's almost as if you need to check this clip every time you you "Step-On" these binings. No thanks... I got home and ordered the Nidecker Supermatics. I'll never have to worry about having to cut up a pair of expensive pants to release a binding again.
That doesn't sounds like fun at all. How do you like the Nideckers overall in terms of stability and ease of use? They look interesting but I haven't laid eyes on them yet.
@@RustySnowboarder I haven't had a chance to ride them yet, but all things considered, they look and feel like a well built binding. Very easy to get in and out of. I've ridden Flows for the last 15 years, so they are very familiar.
I have had 2 seasons on the Nidecker Supermatics so far and love them to death! My favorite part about them is how easy it is to slip into the binding partially as I'm about to get off the chairlift and then as soon as I hit the ground I'm clicked the rest of the way and never have to stop, just continuing on my way down the slopes! No wasted time and I love to do very high speed banked slalom turns and this thing just rips! Awesome bindings! They feel like a traditional binding with the straps and that's also what I like about them. I haven't met anyone yet that can easily get into the Burton Step-Ons when coming right off the lift. If anyone is doing that, please leave me a comment.
I've ridden the Step Ons this whole season. I put my pants into the clips when I put my boots on and they stay in place the rest of the day. I haven't had to think about them more than that.
Yep, I'm planning on trying them in powder when the opportunity presents itself but I think they'll be about the same as strap bindings. In both cases we need be someplace firm enough to stand up and then clear all the snow out of the binding. I'll see what I can sort out.
That sounds amazing. I've never been on an international snowboarding trip before. I agree about the Sep Ons. I'm loving them and can't see going back.
I actually have ridden these for two seasons and am moving back to traditional bindings...I'm 53 and dont find that these are all that more convienent than traditional bindings and I don't think they are that more of an advantage for less flexible people. Its a shorter reach to unstrap from a regular binding than the step ons. And you do lose board feel with them. Now they are VERY responsive, and that's really the only thing I see as an advantage. Just my .02.... I have lots of large step in bindings for sale....LOL
That's some good feedback on the bindings. Thanks for chipping in. I'm glad we have lots of choice these days so we can all get the gear that fits us best.
There is an often unstated assumption that the convenience of StepOn comes at a performance cost. I don't believe this is the case. The boot has a much more direct and solid connection to the binding than a strap binding, eliminating mechanical transmission loss through the straps; you waste less energy compressing and stretching the strap materials. Cranking down on straps does not provide more responsiveness than SO; it just hurts your foot. There are also far fewer parts in the StepOn system. The wasted energy described above equals wear and tear on the straps, ladders, ratchets and bolts. One potential downside is that some park riders prefer the option for a looser, less responsive binding hold. Other than loosening your boots, StepOn does not allow for degrading responsiveness. Burton could improve the forward lean system, though, and some people want highback rotation (shrug).
No straps and a flexible ankle sounds good for me. I’m older now (52) and not as flexible as I’d like to be. Still very fit but pretty solid built so flexible usage would be awesome for me.
If you snowboard, it’s better to work on your flexibility, regardless of your age. It’s not just about getting better at the sport, it also helps with avoiding injuries.
Nice! Getting some time with all of them. A few people have mentioned Nidecker and they sound pretty good. I haven't been able to put my hands on a set yet.
I think some people will not be comfortable without the straps. I think some people see them as lazy. But considering that my back and shoulders aren't as flexible as they used to be, I love them. They make the day much better when I'm not fighting the straps. That's the beauty of having choices, we can all get the gear that suits us best.
@@qp4367 There have been many innovations for snowboard bindings in the last 30+ years, and ultimately, strap bindings and lace up boots have been found best by test. Even things like speed laces or BOA, you are giving up some performance for convenance. Not that I don't like convenance, just got to acknowledge that a rider who is looking to push themselves to the absolute limit would not choose the step ons. With traditional bindings, you have the the boot and the binding. Your binding controls heels side and toe side, while your boot is the primary driver for going nose to tail. With step ons, the boot IS the binding. It is stiff in all directions. Not a problem if you like charging or carving, but if you are a freestyle oriented rider, you generally aren't going to like them as much. That being said, being able to step in as you get off the lift is very nice. Especially for that midwest riding.
Well put. I agree that every change in the technology will change both the feel and the performance in some way. Sometimes better, sometimes worse. And of course our personal preference is more important than the technology either way.
- Check out the Burton Photon Step On Boots from top to bottom. ua-cam.com/video/bu-DtZTJWIk/v-deo.html You'll see how they look, hear my thoughts on how they feel, and see the double Boa lacing in action. Plus you’ll see a simple trick that helps get your foot into the boot a little easier.
I have them already a couple of years, from the beginning. Absolutely great. Very responsive, very easy to get in and out even in the deep snow. Game changer.
Good to hear. I'm looking forward to getting many years from them as well.
For anyone on the fence, i got step ons this year and they have been an absolute game changer. I didnt have issues with strapping in, but the time and energy saved means more laps and less soreness at the end of the day. Truly in love with them!
Happy to hear from another person who likes them. They sure do work for me.
@@RustySnowboarder especially wonderful to be able to clip in right on lift dismount, and keep up with your friends who ski!
Yeah, getting going right away is a big plus.
Saw somebody using these and talked with him about them. Now this is at the top of my feed. Of course. Still I appreciate the info. The system looks solid.
Yeah, they're pretty good in my book. Thanks for watching.
I love my step on's,boots are super light and bindings hold the boots like a glue. In and out in seconds and boa saves me like 20 mins 💪🏻
Good to hear. I'm loving them.
Old and disabled here. Got them so I could ride more comfortably. I see a lot of people talking about the twist when stepping out so I did the same at first but once I got more of a feel for them I was able to figure out that you don’t actually need to lift your heal that much once you lock the release lever in place. You can then just step forward and the boot comes right out. When I first had them I was lifting my heal too much which caused the front cleats to get wedged in place and then I would need to twist my foot. Now I can just step out easy.
Thanks for the tip. It's weird that you mention it today because yesterday I noticed that I was releasing with basically a forward push of the foot. Very little to no twist. I wasn't paying any attention to my heel though. I'll try to be a little more aware next time out.
Absolute game changer for me! Usually easier for me to “StepON” while skating on a flat. Also, going to try switching the disconnect lever to the inside. Heard this helps.
I've seen a few people move the lever to the inside too. I haven't tried the movement to see it it's easier for me. Come back and let know how it works out for you.
Moving the Lever to the inside made unlatching so much easier.
Bought the step ons with photons this season… love em
Always happy to hear from someone who likes them as well.
Glad to see you got some 20th century gear (eventhough its step-ons , yeah im one of those) , alot has happened in binding tech lately.
I bet you'd be happy with a new board as well!
I'm definitely looking forward to a new board. But not yet.
In October I told myself that if I got on the slopes enough this season then a new board and bindings would be my reward next fall. However, the first day out was too much for my back and my reduction in flexibility so I caved and bought the Step Ons right away. I'm really glad that I did.
@@RustySnowboarder yea, sound like a nice goal/motivator for you to hit the slopes! ive been forcing myself into a yoga/stretch and diet > strenght and build and it has definetly helped. personally i dont need the step-ons (yet) and im not the biggest fan of burton - and if you get these binding the choice of boots are very limited. And getting the right boots are the most important thing! so im glad youre satisfied with you purchase! ;)
Agreed, I do what I can, but the body just isn't what it used to be.
There are a couple other brands that make Step On boots but the options are definitely limited.
I was also looking into the Clew bindings since they can be used with any boots. Not cheap either, but an interesting proposition.
@@RustySnowboarder Then im glad you got the burton-step ons! ill admit they definetly seem like the best choice of the step-on options out there.
"angry snowboarder" just happened to post "The Clew Freedom 1.0 Snowboard Binding Review" 14 hours ago.
I trust his reviews - spot on for all my boards and bindings - I think you dodged the bullet there 😅
Yeah, I saw that today too. Definitely a lot of good info. I also don't buy things without seeing in person so I wasn't all that close to getting them.
I like the way you conducted this video
Thanks. I was hoping everything would be clear and make sense.
I'm old and fat too and just beginning to snowboard. Would you recommend this boot & binding combo?
Always happy to see a newcomer to the sport. Hopefully you enjoy it for a long time.
The Step On binding is great for ease of use and the Photon boot is very comfortable. From that perspective I think they're worth taking a look at.
However they are not cheap. As a beginner it might be better to look at the traditional route and save some money until you're committed to snowboarding on a regular basis.
Buy the Step Ons!
What boards do you use? Just got Photon boots with Genesis with a custom board. I'm 40 with a typical Dad gut and the straps are very uncomfortable to put on. Hoping this resolves it.
@ClintK. I've been riding a Burton Floater 164 that's over 20 years old now. It's a directional twin and it's a lot of board to move around in tight spaces. It's the maroon board in most of my videos.
Last spring I picked up a United Shapes Cadet 162. I only got it out once at the end of the season and I love it so far. It's more of a traditional free ride shape that I think will suit me a little better. It's the white one in my last bunch of videos.
Wonderful. I went with the 162W.
Should be a major upgrade. Been riding a starter board from the 90s called Vision. Looking forward to all the new upgrades. The idea back then was to buy a massive boot so you could put in 3 layers of socks. The old boots massive looking forward to the new tech with the Photon and wearing a normal 11.5W size instead of a 13 bucket. Appreciate your relatable videos.
@ClintK. Right on! Glad you're enjoying the videos. I'm in a size 11 boot as well so I understand the big boot issues.
00:45 That little clip cost me a $200 pair of pants. If your pant leg comes out of that clip, the material can jam in the heel locking mechanism and not release. I learned the hard way. After trying for 20 minutes to get it to unjam, we(the demo shop) had to cut the lower pant leg off to get my foot out, leaving my boot still attached. Another hour disassembling the whole binding back at the shop, and we(they) finally got the fabric out and was able to get the boot to release, saving the binding. Not so for my good pants. I have heard this is a reoccurring problem with these bindings. It's almost as if you need to check this clip every time you you "Step-On" these binings. No thanks... I got home and ordered the Nidecker Supermatics. I'll never have to worry about having to cut up a pair of expensive pants to release a binding again.
That doesn't sounds like fun at all. How do you like the Nideckers overall in terms of stability and ease of use? They look interesting but I haven't laid eyes on them yet.
@@RustySnowboarder I haven't had a chance to ride them yet, but all things considered, they look and feel like a well built binding. Very easy to get in and out of. I've ridden Flows for the last 15 years, so they are very familiar.
Thanks, good to know. If I ever see tham I'll be sure to check them out.
I have had 2 seasons on the Nidecker Supermatics so far and love them to death! My favorite part about them is how easy it is to slip into the binding partially as I'm about to get off the chairlift and then as soon as I hit the ground I'm clicked the rest of the way and never have to stop, just continuing on my way down the slopes! No wasted time and I love to do very high speed banked slalom turns and this thing just rips! Awesome bindings! They feel like a traditional binding with the straps and that's also what I like about them. I haven't met anyone yet that can easily get into the Burton Step-Ons when coming right off the lift. If anyone is doing that, please leave me a comment.
I've ridden the Step Ons this whole season. I put my pants into the clips when I put my boots on and they stay in place the rest of the day. I haven't had to think about them more than that.
great video thanks, could you please check them on pow day aswell? really want to know how is it gonna click when step on in deep pow
Yep, I'm planning on trying them in powder when the opportunity presents itself but I think they'll be about the same as strap bindings. In both cases we need be someplace firm enough to stand up and then clear all the snow out of the binding. I'll see what I can sort out.
I had my first day in deep powder with the Step ons, I had no issues. I unclipped, stood up, clipped right in and down the mountain I went.
Good to know.
Just spent two weeks riding Japan with SO's for the first time in my 30-yrs of snowboarding. I'll never go back to strap bindings.
That sounds amazing. I've never been on an international snowboarding trip before. I agree about the Sep Ons. I'm loving them and can't see going back.
I actually have ridden these for two seasons and am moving back to traditional bindings...I'm 53 and dont find that these are all that more convienent than traditional bindings and I don't think they are that more of an advantage for less flexible people. Its a shorter reach to unstrap from a regular binding than the step ons. And you do lose board feel with them. Now they are VERY responsive, and that's really the only thing I see as an advantage. Just my .02....
I have lots of large step in bindings for sale....LOL
That's some good feedback on the bindings. Thanks for chipping in. I'm glad we have lots of choice these days so we can all get the gear that fits us best.
There is an often unstated assumption that the convenience of StepOn comes at a performance cost.
I don't believe this is the case. The boot has a much more direct and solid connection to the binding than a strap binding, eliminating mechanical transmission loss through the straps; you waste less energy compressing and stretching the strap materials. Cranking down on straps does not provide more responsiveness than SO; it just hurts your foot.
There are also far fewer parts in the StepOn system. The wasted energy described above equals wear and tear on the straps, ladders, ratchets and bolts.
One potential downside is that some park riders prefer the option for a looser, less responsive binding hold. Other than loosening your boots, StepOn does not allow for degrading responsiveness.
Burton could improve the forward lean system, though, and some people want highback rotation (shrug).
@steveng.clinard1766 I agree on the combination of performance and convenience. They react to everything without any concerns.
No straps and a flexible ankle sounds good for me.
I’m older now (52) and not as flexible as I’d like to be.
Still very fit but pretty solid built so flexible usage would be awesome for me.
I know those feelings and Step On works pretty good for me.
If you snowboard, it’s better to work on your flexibility, regardless of your age. It’s not just about getting better at the sport, it also helps with avoiding injuries.
I totally agree. Anything a person can do to improve flexibility, range of motion, and strength is a good thing.
Which binding is that one?
@jtuds It's the standard Step On from 2024.
I tested clew / step on and supermatic :) I the end Supermatic won
Nice! Getting some time with all of them. A few people have mentioned Nidecker and they sound pretty good. I haven't been able to put my hands on a set yet.
No thanks, straps for life.
Fair enough. Straps definitely get the job done as good as anything.
@RustySnowboarder I have been riding a long time, and don't have much time left to re learn. Pray for snow.
More snow would definitely be good this season.
Great review! Thank you. I'm this much closer to committing...🤏
Thanks. They may not be for everybody but they're definitely worth a look.
@@RustySnowboarder in what way would they not be universally accepted by most riders? Thoughts?
I think some people will not be comfortable without the straps. I think some people see them as lazy.
But considering that my back and shoulders aren't as flexible as they used to be, I love them. They make the day much better when I'm not fighting the straps.
That's the beauty of having choices, we can all get the gear that suits us best.
@@qp4367 There have been many innovations for snowboard bindings in the last 30+ years, and ultimately, strap bindings and lace up boots have been found best by test. Even things like speed laces or BOA, you are giving up some performance for convenance. Not that I don't like convenance, just got to acknowledge that a rider who is looking to push themselves to the absolute limit would not choose the step ons.
With traditional bindings, you have the the boot and the binding. Your binding controls heels side and toe side, while your boot is the primary driver for going nose to tail. With step ons, the boot IS the binding. It is stiff in all directions. Not a problem if you like charging or carving, but if you are a freestyle oriented rider, you generally aren't going to like them as much.
That being said, being able to step in as you get off the lift is very nice. Especially for that midwest riding.
Well put. I agree that every change in the technology will change both the feel and the performance in some way. Sometimes better, sometimes worse. And of course our personal preference is more important than the technology either way.