The Compatibility Problem
Unlike skiing (where binding standards are well-regulated by ISO), snowboard binding mounting is a fractured landscape. Burton — the largest snowboard manufacturer — uses a proprietary mounting system on many of their boards. Everyone else uses a different standard. And Burton makes bindings in both systems, only one of which works on non-Burton boards.
The result: every year, riders buy bindings that literally don't bolt to their board. According to evo's customer service team, binding compatibility questions are their #1 gear inquiry during peak season.
The Three Mounting Systems
4x4 (Four-by-Four) — The Universal Standard
The 4x4 pattern uses four screws in a square pattern, spaced 4cm apart. This is the industry standard used by every snowboard manufacturer except Burton's Channel boards. If you're not buying a Burton board, your board is almost certainly 4x4.
Compatible brands (bindings): Union, Ride, Flux, Now, Jones, Nitro, K2, and many others. Burton Re:Flex bindings also work on 4x4.
Compatible brands (boards): Ride, Capita, Jones, Lib Tech, GNU, K2, Rossignol, Salomon, Nitro, Arbor, Yes, and virtually every board except Burton Channel boards.
Burton Channel System — Burton's Proprietary System
Burton's Channel system uses a single slot (channel) running down the center of the board instead of pre-drilled holes. Bindings slide along the channel and can be positioned anywhere, offering infinite stance width and angle adjustment.
Only found on: Burton snowboards (most current models)
Compatible bindings:
- Burton EST bindings — designed EXCLUSIVELY for the Channel. Will NOT work on 4x4 boards.
- Burton Re:Flex bindings — work on BOTH Channel and 4x4 boards (cross-compatible).
- Most non-Burton bindings do NOT work with the Channel system. Exceptions exist with adapter discs, but they add complexity and weight.
3D — Retired Burton System
Burton's older 3D mounting pattern (three inserts in a triangular pattern) was used before the Channel system. Found on Burton boards pre-2015 approximately. Not currently produced, but relevant if you're buying used boards. Most current Burton bindings include 3D-compatible mounting hardware.
The Compatibility Matrix
| Binding Type | 4x4 Board | Burton Channel Board | Burton 3D Board (Legacy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 4x4 bindings (Union, Ride, etc.) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No* | ❌ No |
| Burton EST | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Burton Re:Flex | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (with disc) |
| Burton Step On | ✅ Yes (Re:Flex base) | ✅ Yes (EST or Re:Flex) | Depends on base |
*Some 4x4 bindings can work on Channel boards with aftermarket adapter discs, but this is not recommended by most manufacturers.
Burton Step On: The Quick-Entry System
Burton's Step On system is a departure from traditional strap bindings. Instead of ratcheting straps over your boot, you literally step your boot into the binding and it clicks locked. To release, you pull a lever on the heel.
Key considerations:
- Step On requires Step On-specific boots — regular snowboard boots will NOT work
- Available in both EST (Channel only) and Re:Flex (universal) baseplates
- Excellent for convenience, especially beginners and resort riders
- Some advanced riders report slightly less board feel than traditional strap bindings
- Boot options are limited to Burton's Step On boot lineup (though it's expanding)
Best Bindings by Board Type
For Any 4x4 Board (Most Non-Burton Boards)
For Burton Channel Boards
Binding Sizing
Bindings come in sizes that correspond to boot sizes. Most brands offer S, M, L, and sometimes XL. Always check the specific brand's size chart — a Medium in Union might cover US 8-10, while a Medium in Burton covers US 8-11.
| Binding Size | Typical US Boot Size (Men's) |
|---|---|
| Small (S) | 5-7 |
| Medium (M) | 8-10 |
| Large (L) | 10-13 |
| XL | 13+ |
Common Mistakes
Sources & Further Reading
- Burton. "Binding Compatibility Guide." burton.com
- Evo. "How to Choose Snowboard Bindings." evo.com, 2025.
- The Good Ride. "Snowboard Binding Reviews." thegoodride.com, 2025.
- Whitelines Snowboarding. "Binding Buyer's Guide." whitelines.com, 2025.
- Union Binding Company. "Tech Specs and Compatibility." unionbindingcompany.com
- TransWorld Snowboarding. "Best Bindings 2025 Good Wood Test." transworld.net
