Wakeboard Bindings
You've got your board  now its time to get attached to it -- literally. Since bindings are the only link uniting board and rider, it is important that they are both snug and comfortable in order to give you the best ride possible. Besides proper sizing, the quality of the material will make a big difference in how comfortable the binding is. It should curve inwards to support your arch and outwards to accommodate your toes.
To get you started, check out some of these popular brands. You might also want to visit Wakeworld.com and WakeBoarder.com to see reviews on bindings. Remember that you can choose any brand you want that suits your price range. The binding manufacturer does not have to be the same as the board manufacturer. If you are a beginner, most people would say don't bother spending a lot of money on bindings. Find a well rated pair that fit your budget. If you are an intermediate to advanced wakeboarder make sure to check the ability specification ratings on the bindings when buying. You can also go to the section "Search Models By Ability Level" below for some suggestions.
Finding the Right Wakeboard Bindings
There are a few main criteria that you want to focus on when shopping for bindings. Number one, if you can try them on in person, all the better. Look for bindings that offer stable support, solid hold, an easy entry and release, and a comfortable footbed. You want them as snug as possible without cutting off your circulation. A great fit will make your board more responsive so that you can made quick turns without your board lagging.
To help you understand these aspects more fully, the following sections will discuss the various parts of the bindings and how they affect the fit and your ride.
A Solid, Yet Forgiving Fit That Provides Support and Comfort
- Bindings are composed of a closure feature that consists of the "overlay" and "underlay". What you want from this is a firm, snug hold that is also forgiving. That means you should be able to:
- Wear them for about 20 minutes without tiring or losing circulation in your feet.
- Flex your knees and ankles without sensing bunching or pinching.
- Have little to no heel lift.
- Know that your ankles are well supported and that your foot is secure all over and doesn't move around.
- Get an idea of how well you can "feel" the board. Remember you want something supportive, but also responsive.
- The overlay, or outer closure piece, provides firm foot support by snugly holding the toe and heel pieces together and pushing the heel down towards the board. The overlay can be made of different types of materials, including plastic, a thick foamy material, or a series of laces or buckles. You will see the closures on either the front or back of the binding, and which style you choose is as much a matter of personal preference as a matter of convenience. Some prefer front, as opposed to rear-entry because it's more natural feeling and flexible.
- The underlay is the soft material between the overlay and the top of the foot that makes it more comfortable. Usually it won't provide much support, but it will be comfy. If you want something a little sturdier, opt for a stiffer underlay. Just remember that you will lose some of the comfort.
- If you really want or need super tight bindings, you might find that they don't go on (or come off) as easily as you'd like. A quick fix to this solution when you can't give up a perfect fit is to use a lubricant, such as liquid soap or specially made binding lube.
- The footbed is basically the inner sole of the binding. It's cushioned to make your foot comfortable, but also to absorb shock and keep your hoofs from sliding around inside the binding.
- You might notice that it's not flat. That is both for supporting the foot under the arch and toes, and for adjusting your posture -- a higher heel lets you bend your knees easier, reducing pressure on your joints.
- The outer hardware which holds the binding together is ergonomically designed to support the foot by curving into the arch on good models.
Attaching and Adjusting Bindings
Bindings are usually easy to attach and adjust depending on the manufacturer. While your bindings can be attached in a board shop, at home a screwdriver is the most you will probably need for securing the binding to the board since most include a series of washers and bolts or screws with the bindings. Adjusting the angle and spacing on the bindings is fairly simple as well. The baseplate, or the sole of the binding, is adaptable on most models so that you can create the best stance for your riding style.
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