BURTON STEP ON

In a nutshell, Burton Step On is a quick-release range that is an alternative to EST/ Channel and Standard bindings.

Where you’d normally have straps across the front of your boots, Step On technology has three cleats (two on each side of the toe and one at the heel) that connect the boot to the binding. To get on your board you simply “Step In” to your binding, attach the leash, and you’re good to do. They’re incredibly speedy which is why they’ve become so popular.

Step On Bindings has a small lever down the side of the binding for you to release at the end of your ride so even the dismount is quick.

Sadly not. The bindings (and boots) will only work with their Step On counterparts. This is due to the connection points that hold the boots in place - these must match up between the boot and binding. If you look at a Step On Boot you’ll see the three cleats - two at the front, one at the back - that correspond with the clips on the bindings.

While Burton Step On is still by far the leader, we are seeing new brands emerge. One of the most popular is the Nidecker Supermatic which we’re bringing to Rhythm in 2024. Its mechanism is a cross between a ski binding and slip-on shoe, with your foot going through the back and stepping into the plate. As it has straps, you don’t need a leash with the Supermatic. The other win here is you can use the Supermatic bindings with any boots or board.

As well as alternative bindings, there are alternative boots to Burton’s own brand. Nitro and DC have paired up with Burton to create their own Step On Boots making it even easier to find your perfect fit.

Yes! This is great news if you’ve already got a board and want to change the bindings. The Step On system will work on any type of board, and there are options for men, women and kids too.

Yes, beginners can use Burton Step Ons. Whether you choose to or not is down to personal preference. The setup cost of Step Ons is higher than a standard binding and although you can rent them at certain snowboard hire places, including Rhythm, they are hard to come by. We recommend speaking to one of our team if you’re new to the sport and want to see what the best binding option is for you.

Yes! You can now get touring-specific Step On bindings which are a real winner when all you want to do is explore the backcountry. You can easily switch between ride and tour mode, letting you get the most out of your splitboard wherever you wind up.

Yes. All Burton Steps On will come with a leash that clips to your boot that should be used. It’s actually a legal requirement in most countries (ISO Code 14573). While we have every confidence in the security of Burton bindings, it’s key to keeping everyone on the mountain safe.

Yes, beginners can use Burton Step Ons. Whether you choose to or not is down to personal preference. The setup cost of Step Ons is higher than a standard binding and although you can rent them at certain snowboard hire places, including Rhythm, they are hard to come by. We recommend speaking to one of our team if you’re new to the sport and want to see what the best binding option is for you.

Again, whether you choose to put your kids on Step On Boots and Bindings is totally up to you (and them!). You will have to make sure the bindings and boots are size-compatible and given that they are still growing, this could mean a new pair of boots of bindings each season. This is no different to regular boots and bindings however, with the price of Step On’s being slightly higher, you will have to determine whether or not this is within your budget.

Burton has a number of styles of boot to cater to different foot types (as well as riding styles). Certain models of Burton Step On’s come in a wide specific fit. Nitro and DC also have Step On specific boots available, making finding your perfect Step On boot easier than ever.

As you can tell there are lots of positives when it comes to Step Ons but there are a few drawbacks too. We’ve mentioned some of these already:

- The need for a leash
- You can only use specific Step on boots with Burton Step On bindings
- The set up cost is (in general) higher than a more traditional set-up

Step on bindings mount exactly the same as their regular counterparts. The only difference is that you have to make sure that the gas peddle on the binding matches your boot size. Step On Boots MUST be used with the correct sized bindings. Women's boots must use the women's bindings, and men's boots must use the men's bindings. Pairing incompatible size or gender boots and bindings will result in malfunction and could compromise your safety.

If in doubt, give your local board workshop a call and remember that if you buy with Rhythm, we’ll get you set up for free so you know you’re set to ride!