Image: MomJunction Design Team
Wakeboard boots or wakeboard bindings are the footwear that connects your feet to a wakeboard. The best wakeboard bindings can increase your performance and give you a competitive edge when you use a wakeboard. It isn’t easy to find wakeboard bindings that can fit all sizes. Thanks to this guide that we have compiled based on their overalll quality, grip and long-lasting construction. Therefore, searching for best-selling wakeboard boots will no longer be a difficult task. Read on to choose the right product.
Top Picks
Types Of Wakeboard Bindings
Wakeboard bindings are of the following types.
- Open-toe bindings: Open-toe is a traditional binding, where the tip of the toe is not covered. These are the most common bindings suitable for beginners and advanced riders. They leave some breathing room and are helpful if you’re buying a single board or if you have growing kids.
- Closed-toe bindings: Unlike the open-toe boots, the closed-toe bindings cover your entire feet. Their precise fit allows for fast heel-to-toe responses, maximum control, and increased leverage. They are high-end models and are ideal for winters, as they keep your feet warm.
- System bindings: System bindings, otherwise known as step-in bindings, are a type of closed-toe binding with a wakeboard boot and a separate frame that screws onto the board. These bindings use a high-back frame with ratchet straps that fasten the ankle and toe for a customized fit.
11 Best Wakeboard Bindings
1. Best For Easy Access: Airhead Binding Venom Wakeboard
Image: Airhead Venom wakeboard boot from Airhead is an open-toe style binding that fits various sizes. It has left and right specific base plates to provide a better fit and opens widely for ease of entry. The lightweight chassis accommodates most feet. Its easy-to-adjust lacing system and flexible plastisol overlay offer the fit and support you need. With Venom’s captive thumbscrew mechanism, you’ll never misplace the mounting gear again.
Pros
- Easy to put on
- Broad fir is ideal for men
- Available for children
- Simple to operate
Cons
- Compatible only with Airhead products
- Screws might not fit the wakeboard
"This binding has been comfortable for my wife and me thanks to its open-toe design, which accommodates both our feet. It mounts easily on the board, and the lacing system keeps it from slipping off my feet."
Did you know?2. Best User-Friendly: Hyperlite Remix Wakeboard Bindings
Image: Hyperlite Hyperlite Remix Binding is an adaptable and shareable wakeboard binding that is sturdy and easy to wear. This binding for beginners has Dual Lace Zones, which you will find in premium open-toe wakeboard bindings. The 3D tongue offers maximum comfort and board control to help you gain a competitive edge over other wakeboarders. It is user-friendly, ergonomic binding that gives an ideal stance. Check out the detailed review of the dual-zone wakeboard bindings in this video.
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing
- High-quality materials
- Suitable for beginner to intermediate riders
- Easy to get into
Cons
- May not be suitable for large feet
- May be less durable
"As a wakeboard enthusiast, I have experimented with multiple bindings, but none have been as comfortable as these. They are well crafted, too, and have been going strong despite facing a lot of rough use."
3. Best For Multi-User Board: Ronix Divide Wakeboard Boots
Image: Ronix Ronix divide wakeboard bindings are easy to put on and take off, with a super-comfy yet secure fit. They are the lightest wakeboarding boots with an open-toe style binding and no foundation for maximum sensation, adaptability, and versatility. The wakeboard bindings are a great choice for community boards and when you merely need to get out on the water. Watch the reviewer’s video of the wakeboard bindings and boots for more information.
Pros
- Perfect fitting
- Highly durable
- Best for multi-user board
- Lightweight
Cons
- Might wear off soon
Airhead Binding Venom Wakeboard Best For Easy Access | Hyperlite Remix Wakeboard Bindings Best User-Friendly | Ronix Divide Wakeboard Boots Best For Multi-User Board | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1.68 Kilograms | 2722 Grams | 0.22 Pounds |
| Color | Black | - | - |
| Dimensions LxWxH | 12.99 x 7.09 x 10.63 inches | 7.87 x 11.81 x 7.87 inches | 17.5 x 12 x 9 inches |
| Material | - | Aluminum | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 49 | 40 | 36 |
| Price | $91.99 | $209.95 | $279.99 |
4. Best Lightweight: Hyperlite Destroyer Wakeboard Bindings
The Hyperlite destroyer binding, based on the popular Frequency design, features few significant improvements this season. Its base plate is one of the thinnest and sturdiest on the market, featuring Hyperlite’s revolutionary 6″ Low Pro Plate System. That entails a significant reduction in weight and an increase in response time when initiating rotations, making it the perfect binding for beginners. Its standout features include a rear flex area that reduces friction on the back of the thigh and the molded EVA in the heel and toe that provides enhanced cushioning, making it a perfect companion for your next outdoor adventure. Metal inserts in the mounting bracket allow better hold when attaching the binding. These pro wakeboard binding sizes follow an OSFM (one size fits most) model.
Pros
- Quick lacing system
- Lightweight
- Easy entry
- Fits comfortably
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
"Despite providing enhanced coverage, these shoes don't feel heavy as the drain holes quickly empty the water. While true to size, attaching them to my board took time due to alignment issues. Still, their quality is top-notch, and the heel panel has helped prevent injuries."
5. Best For Beginners: Liquid Force Index Men’s Wake Bindings
The Liquid Force index wakeboard bindings are the most comfortable and user-friendly binders in the business, with a high flexibility rating, a comfort liner, and three separate grades of EVA foam dampening. Its wide fit and dual lace system offers a customized, firm fit. They weigh 1.5 pounds and come in different sizes, starting from 5 to 15. These widely tested and trusted wakeboard bindings are suitable for beginners. Go through this video review for a detailed understanding of the beginner wakeboard bindings.
Pros
- Easy to get in and out
- Lightweight
- Highly comfortable
- Durable design
Cons
- Not suitable for pro-level performers
"The cushioning on these shoes keeps my feet from tiring even when I spend hours on the sea. I am also amazed at how well they have aligned with the existing holes on my board. Moreover, its shiny build is pretty charming."
Do remember6. Best Dual Lace System: CWB Board Co Men’s Faction Wakeboard Boots
The closed-toe boots for wakeboarding from CWB are budget-friendly pro-style boots. The infinity base plate offers the lightest and strongest foundation. Its comfort liner with shock pads and supportive outer boot with a dual lacing system provide an unrivaled fit. Additionally, the wakeboard features an impact heel strap and a deep heel pocket with built-in Achilles pads. The wakeboard’s hinge tech system allows easy entry with a flip of the lever.
Pros
- Light and sturdy at the same time
- Highly comfortable
- Durable
- Easy to get on
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
7. Best For Shock Absorption: Airush Reefer Wakeboard Bindings
The reefer bindings are built in the traditional wake boot style, offering optimal support and protection over the board. Increased rigidity in the ankle area of the boot, and additional reinforcing in crucial high-wear locations, make this a suitable boot for professional riders with in-depth expertise. The expanding foam fits the curvature of every foot, allowing uniform shock absorption and stability underfoot. The high memory medium density rubber and ergonomic design help anchor the rider’s feet into the boot.
Pros
- Highly comfortable
- Durable and flexible
- Offers maximum comfort
- Secure fit
Cons
- May have size fit issues
8. Best For Flexibility: Hyperlite Formula Men’s Wakeboard Bindings
Image: Hyperlite Hyperlite Formula velcro wakeboard bindings set the standard for all-day wakeboarding and happy feet. The Formula’s 3-Part Velcro Closure System makes it simple to put on while providing a secure and comfortable fit for different foot sizes. Its universal mounting mechanism allows them to be mounted on any wakeboard. It also features a low pro plate system, which reduces the volume of the bindings by nearly 16%, thus giving you a lighter feel. The widely tested and trusted wakeboard connects its sidewall to the chassis, creating a sturdy base.
Pros
- Adjustable fit
- Lightweight
- Dual-density footbed
- Low Pro Plate System decreases the volume
Cons
- Straps may be flimsy
9. Best Versatile: O’Brien Access Wakeboard Bindings
Access wakeboard by O’Brien has multiple lacing zones for easy adjustments. While on water, it is essential to have a proper form to improve your performance. For this reason, the wakeboard bindings feature a NEO chassis that provides an extra cushion and helps align your knees, ankles, and hips. With its internal J-bars, you may experience greater ankle support.
Pros
- Great comfort
- Multiple zonal lacing system
- Good fitting
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Durable
Cons
- Mounting system could be weak
"I got these at my friend's recommendation and am glad they fit well. Also, their unique lacing system keeps my feet from developing red marks, and the lightweight build allows me to make quick movements."
10. Best For Ankle Support: Ronix One Boot Wakeboard Bindings
Ronix one boot wakeboard binding offers an ideal balance of control and maneuverability for a day at the cable park or on the water. It uses the most personalized chassis and liner to create this famous boot. The upgraded version of this model has two standout features—Flexform heel and ankle panels—that provide mobility. Unlike traditional lacing systems, the auto-lock lace system of these boots offers stability and keeps your foot in place, making it easy to wear. Danny Harf, an X-Games gold medalist, has tested and approved these bindings.
Pros
- Highly durable
- User-friendly
- Lightweight
- Provides comfort
Cons
- Low-quality materials
Quick tip11. Best For Stability: Connelly 2020 Optima Wakeboard Bindings
Connelly optima adjustable wakeboard bindings are adaptable and flexible. The medium flex level provides balanced stability for advanced and intermediate riders. These tried-and-tested bindings are ultralight, comfortable, and adjustable to a range of foot sizes, making them the perfect wakeboard boot to have a wonderful day on the water.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to use
- Well-constructed
- Thick EVA footbed offers comfort
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced riders
How To Choose The Right Wakeboard Bindings?
Here are some factors to keep in mind while buying a wakeboard binding
- Compatibility To ensure the binding is compatible with the wakeboard, you may buy from the same manufacturer. Check for one-fourth-inch standard screws or M6 mounting hardware, which is universally compatible across all wakeboard brands.
- Closure: Lace closure offers the best fit but takes time to fasten them. Velcro straps make it easy to get in and out but may not provide a precise fit. BOA wakeboard bindings use a dial to give a firm fit and do not require any tying.
- Flex: If you’re a beginner, softer flex bindings are suitable as they provide more mobility. For advanced performers, stiff wakeboard bindings are ideal as they offer better control and support to the ankle.
- Size: Most boots come in different sizes; however, some may have single sizes. It’s advisable to try on the bindings to ensure the fit is perfect and not too tight or loose.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How tight should wakeboard bindings be?
Be it open- or closed-toe wakeboard boots, wakeboard bindings should be firm and offer a snug fit. Ensure that the bindings are not extra tight, which may cause pain.
2. Do all wakeboard bindings fit all boards?
Most modern wakeboard bindings are designed to fit all boards. However, certain bindings fit only wakeboards.
3. Can I use snowboard bindings on a wakeboard?
You can’t use snowboard bindings for wakeboarding. However, you can replace the snowboard binding with wakeboard binding and use the snowboard for wakeboarding.
4. What angle should wakeboard bindings be set at?
It is essential to correctly set up the bindings on the board to ride comfortably. And the angle at which you choose to set your wakeboard binding differs from one person to another. As a general rule, you can place the bindings anywhere between 15° and 27°.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sristi Suman is an adventure enthusiast and writer who enjoys exploring different sports and games and writing about things she finds interesting. She creates content to help fellow gearheads and travel junkies with their experiences. In this article, she reviews different types of wakeboard bindings, which are footwear that help your feet stay put on a wakeboard. She also goes on to recommend the best ones based on their quality, traction, and durability to help you choose the right product.
If you are into wakeboarding, it helps if you invest in a wakeboard binding to improve your performance. When buying a pair of wakeboard bindings, ensure it is compatible with your wakeboard or preferably of the same brand as the wakeboard. And if you’re looking for bindings for beginners, opt for softer and flexible wakeboard bindings because they offer superior mobility. In addition, your wakeboard bindings should fit your feet like a glove, be lightweight, and come with quality closure.
Infographic: What Are The Different Types Of Wakeboard Bindings?
Wakeboarding is an adventurous water sport that needs practice and correct technique to master. However, correct equipment and gears, including wakeboard bindings, are also essential for improved performance and better control. Check out the infographic below to learn about various types of wakeboard bindings available in the market.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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