SHQ

When is the last time you stepped into a binding and had to think about what you were doing because something was different? It’s probably been a while. Bindings have been the same two-strap story forever…that is, until now. Ride’s Contraband has a new take on strap design, blending two into one with their V-Strap heel/toe strap.

With what looks like a turkey’s wishbone wrapping over your forefoot and splitting towards the instep over the tip of your toes, the Contraband’s strap system accomplishes two things. First, and foremost, they are lighter, since less padding and ratchets result in significantly less weight. Second, half the straps equals half the strap-in time. Brilliant. I know what you’re thinking, though: What about toe-lift? Believe it or not, your toe doesn’t require too much effort to stay put while snowboarding, so once adjusted to your boot, the V-Strap does a hell of a job at keeping your foot in place.

The Contraband’s minimalist design and weight also characterizes the way it performs on snow. Its rigid aluminum chassis connects well with your board and transfers your input directly to the snow. The heel strap’s soft flex is perfect for park riding, and the asymmetrical highback flexes more softly to the interior side of your stance for a nice supple ride. The Contraband has all we’ve come to expect from a Ride binding, with the addition of a simple, effective, lightweight and forward-thinking approach to strap design. For more info, visit www.ridesnowboards.com