Softboots and Strap Bindings

Softboots and strap bindings are the most widely used option among splitboarders today for a number of reasons. This is the same boot and binding system that is used for regular snowboarding so chances are you’ll already have them in your arsenal. If not, they’re readily available and generally very affordable. Choose lightweight, low-profile boots and bindings if starting from scratch. Softboots and strap bindings are also known for their natural flex and great ride performance. If you like a surfy ride these are for you.

With the introduction of the world’s first splitboard-specific strap binding, the Spark R&D Ignition binding and snowboard boots that now include Vibram soles like the Burton Serow, this is the best this system has ever been. The downsides to this system are the moving parts on the bindings that can loosen or break and the wider sole on the boots that doesn’t climb as well as a narrower soled ski or mountaineering boot. Snowboard boots are however much more comfortable than both of those options and provide more agility on rock, uneven terrain, or dry trails.

Hardboots and Plate bindings

The term “Hardboots” typically refers to AT (Alpine Touring) ski boots but can also refer to snowboard carving boots. The boots are made of various types of plastic that range in stiffness depending on the model. The common theme among the models is that the support typically provided by the highback and straps of a traditional snowboard binding is now built onto the boot itself. The bindings use a toe and heel bail that interfaces with the boot providing a solid connection to each other. The result is a very stiff and responsive system.

The plastic shell of the boots can also make kicking steps into a firm slope easier than with the unprotected toe found on softboots. Step-in crampons can also be used with hardboots as well. The downside to this system for most riders is the lack of surfy feel when riding due to the stiff sole, materials used, and built-in highback support. Another important thing to consider is the price-tag of this system...bring your credit card.

Mountaineering boots with strap or plate bindings

Mountaineering boots with strap or plate bindings is another combination available to splitboarders today. The boots have some of the same advantages that hardboots have when it comes to the ascent like the protected toe-box, stiff sole, and step-in crampon capability. Mountaineering boots also have a shorter upper-cuff than hardboots which allow for more flex and inward movement. In some cases the shorter cuff is welcomed as it brings back some of the surfy feel but in other cases it can mean calf-bite and a compromise in edge control. If you use the boots with plate bindings there is no forward lean adjustment and if you’re from the old school the ride might remind you of how low-back bindings used to feel. Using strap bindings with mountaineering boots will most likely offer better results and a more natural ride, just be sure the cuff of the boot ends above the binding highback. Some users have added a standard height snowboard boot liner into the boots for added height.

Frankenboots and Frankenbindings

If you can’t find your perfect system already available in the marketplace you can always take matters into your own hands and modify your gear to suit your specific needs. A few years ago when less splitboard products were available this was a common theme among splitboarders but nowadays its seems to happen less often. There are a lot of great ideas out there that don’t always make it make it to the shelves and this is one way to have your cake and eat it too. The downside is added cost and time for something that may or may not work very well. For some, it’s a risk they’re willing to take. Check out the Gear Mod gallery for more pictures and inspiration.