Wakeboard bindings were once little more than a metal plate, minimal thickness of foam, and a rubbery strap to rein in your heel. Today there are a wide variety of supportive, boot-style binding choices on the market. Here are three aimed at beginner to expert riders.
Entry-Level: Hyperlite Remix
The Wrap: Designed to accommodate a variety of foot sizes yet still offer some degree of support, open-toe bindings such as the Remix are ideal when sharing a board among family and friends. Look for a molded EVA footbed, floating tongue, and dual lace zones that can open wide and then cinch down to separately secure your foot and ankle.
The Trap: Wide range of adjustability comes at the expense of individualized support and comfort. All but casual riders will likely be looking to upgrade to a more advanced binding.
Price: $249; scheels.com
Midrange: Hyperlite Team X
The Wrap: A traditional plate-style binding that retains great range of motion, closed-toe bindings such as the Team X offer midrange support while still remaining somewhat sharable for riders of roughly similar foot length and ability. An internal ankle harness locks down the heel. Heat-moldable liners dial in the comfort and provide a more customized fit.
The Trap: Minimal size ranges means no more widespread sharing on the boat. Pricing substantially higher than entry-level offerings.
Price: $425; hyperlite.com or $399; Scheels.com
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High-End: System Lowback Binding/Freepress System Boots
The Wrap: A boot/binding setup similar to snowboarding, System components offer exceptional feel and control. Bindings minimize toe and heel lift and are adjustable on the fly. Heat-moldable boots provide greater comfort and allow riders to stand directly atop the board without plastic or other hard material underfoot.
The Trap: It’s a significant high-end investment that’s not really shareable. Freepress boots offer less flexibility.
Price: System Binding $235; Freepress Boots $400; hyperlite.com
