Flow binding system
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Flow binding system is a proprietary snowboard binding system, used to attach a rider's feet to the snowboard.
Flow bindings are intended to combine the levels of control available from traditional strap-in bindings, with the convenience and fast entry of step-in binding systems.
Flow bindings have a folding high-back and a pre-formed material upper section. The upper section replaces the two straps used in regular strap-in bindings. The user folds the high-back down and inserts their foot into the binding through the back (rather than the top), then clips the high-back up into place. This means any make of soft boots can be used with Flow, as opposed to step-in systems which require a cleated proprietary boot.
The upper 'sock' section is fixed to the baseplate with four adjustable straps, meaning there is less force on each step and they may break less often than straps on regular bindings. If one strap breaks the loss of control is significantly lower than a strap breakage on strap-ins.
Flow bindings have advantages and many find they deliver on their objective of strap-in control with step-in convenience. Some benefits include:
- Faster to put the snowboard on (it is possible even to strap-in riding off a chairlift without stopping)
- The 'sock' covers most of the upper foot, distributing the pressure more equally, compared to strap-ins which distribute pressure over just the ankle and toe sections.
- Children often find them easier to use.
However, there are some drawbacks:
- Beginners may find them difficult to set-up (this only needs to be done once).
- Older models do not fold flat for transport to the same degree as strap-ins. (Newer models can be folded as flat as regular strap-ins).
- If the highback angle is increased too much, pain and cramping can be experienced in the calf, due to a pressure point from the fulcrum of the locking mechanism. This deficiency is particularly a problem for more advanced riders.
- Some boots do not fit well and looseness occurs that cannot be overcome by adjustment of the bindings. The small heelcup on some Salomon F series boots is one example.
- If you have to remove your snowboard in deep powder snow the foot receptacle becomes packed with snow and it is difficult to put your board back on.
Despite these flaws, the Flow binding system is improving and newer models are being designed.
