What are the Best Snowboard Binding Angles for Beginners

Last updated 12. November 2018

Beginners will have numerous details to go over before getting on a snowboard.

One of these factors would include the snowboard binding angle that’s used while snowboarding. If you don’t get this part spot on, the ride quality is going to suffer tremendously! It is one of the main requirements when it comes to snowboarding and ensuring you are on the right path.

Here is more on choosing the right snowboard binding angle for beginners.

 

What is a Snowboard Binding Angle?

The snowboard binding angle or “stance angle” refers to how the binding is set up on your snowboard. The binding has to be installed in a specific direction, which will vary from person to person. For example, a person may decide to go with a perpendicular binding, which leaves the angle at zero. This means the toes are going to be facing straight ahead of you. However, if you go with an angled binding, this is going to have a positive stance angle (toes facing the nose) or negative stance angle (toes facing the tail).

Each binding is going to give you the chance to customize this setup.

There are two bindings at play (front and back), which means each one is going to be set at a particular angle based on your preference as a snowboarder. Some people prefer a larger positive stance angle for their front binding while using a reduced variation for the back.

Choosing the Right Snowboard Binding Angle

Your bindings are going to make a difference in how the snowboard feels under your feet.

This is why beginners are asked to take their timing finding a “sweet spot” where everything feels great for their requirements. There are so many variables at play while setting up your bindings such as your riding style, height, weight, and where you’re going to be snowboarding too.

You will want to start with the stance and how you like to stand on the snowboard. Do you want to go with a regular stance (left foot forward) or a goofy stance (right foot forward)? There’s no right or wrong answer as long as you feel comfortable with what you’re doing. This can help with the bindings.

Please note, the name “goofy” comes from the Disney character and is the way he used to surf in the show!

softbindings for snowboards

 

Stance Type

Now, you are going to have multiple details to go over including how wide apart your feet need to be. It’s best to focus on a stable base (i.e. wider stance) because it gives you more control with the board. Otherwise, you may fall over as soon as there’s a bit of resistance.

If you want to get it spot on, look at standing on the board and keeping your feet shoulders width apart. Keep moving the feet until you feel absolutely comfortable with your stance. This is an essential part of the process as you look to measure the distance between your feet.

Always take the opportunity to measure your gap so it’s an accurate representation. No one wants to deal with a poorly measured binding because it will lead to issues later on. Mark the stance on your snowboard and make sure the bindings fall in line with this required setup.

If you are a complete beginner without any expertise, please follow what is written on the inserts as those act as guides with your particular board.

The same applies to how far forward or back you’re going to stand on the snowboard. Some people like the idea of leaning forward while others want to nestle back into the snowboard as you move around. This is a matter of inches and it’s all about what you prefer.

turning with a snowboard

 

Common Mistakes

What do people get wrong when it comes to finding the best snowboard binding angles?

One of the biggest mistakes a person can make is to put the bindings into place incorrectly. This leads to the buckles being on the inside. Take your time while doing this, so the bindings are facing in the right direction and you can start as soon as you want to. Play around with the insert disks while you’re doing this. It can help make sure the angle is perfect from end to end. In general, you’ll be able to move the notch by three degrees and rotate it until you get the desired angle.

Like anything else, this is all about what you prefer as a snowboarder. Don’t worry if it doesn’t conform to what others are doing even if you’re a beginner. It’s all part of the learning process whether you want it forward, backward, or flat. No matter what, you want to ensure it is comfortable!

Please remember, it is simply not a good idea to have the back foot angled more than the front foot. This leads to serious imbalances that are going to cause injuries later on. Plus, you won’t get the most out of your riding experience.

In the end, this is what you need to remember as a beginner. As long as you do this, you can play around with the bindings and their parts to see what you prefer. People often fiddle with the lean, pivoting, and angles before they get the ideal solution for their riding needs.

Keep these details in mind and you are going to enjoy snowboarding for a long time to come. This is why people fall in love with it!

 

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