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Bindings

Switchback Halldor 2019-2020 Snowboard Bindings Review

  • Sizes: XS-M, M-XL
  • Flex: 7
  • Entry System: Classic
  • Price: £249/€290
  • BUY ONLINE

There’s no disputing that Halldor Helgason is one of the most inventive, innovative, and… Icelandic riders out there. He’s a legend in the game already, someone who needs a binder that’s going to be able to keep up with his high-octane riding style. Slightly softer than the very similar Session, it allows for a more playful ride.

If you’ve had problems with boots fitting in bindings before, then this might just be the ticket for you. Halldor’s Aeron baseplate is fully size adjustable, so whichever boots you’re rocking you’ll get that proper fit. Say bye bye to ‘Toe-verhang’.

“Halldor’s Aeron baseplate is fully size adjustable, so whichever boots you’re rocking you’ll get that proper fit”

The Aeron makes use of forged Aluminium in the power rods along the sides to create a speedy and powerful edge to edge response and also in the heelcup to make it virtually indestructible. A smaller disk means less contact with your board, so it’ll be able to flex more naturally underfoot.

Halldor favours a winged highback, which allows for extra pressure to be put on the outside of the binding, perfect for getting that extra juice for big presses. It’s also asymmetric to fit more uniformly with your boot and features a cut-out to save weight and to flex better with your leg. They’re made to match up perfectly with the Lobster Halldor Pro snowboard, so if you’re dying to boost like him, maybe try them out together.

Tester’s Verdict

Rob McCreathWhitelines

“I rode the Switchback Halldor bindings twice this season. Once on a Bataleon Surfer, and the other time on a Bataleon Goliath – just about as far apart as you can get on the snowboarding spectrum. In both instances, the bindings paired really well with the style of riding on offer from each deck.

With the Surfer, the baseplates provide enough lateral flex and coupled with the winged highback, you can really dial in the response and control when you’re riding out on the tail of the board and loading up for a white-room explosion.

“If you’re of the kind rider who’s going to be giving your binders a fair dose of abuse throughout the season, these ones are primed to take whatever you throw at them”

On the Global Warmer, all the cushioning underfoot felt like a layer of bubble wrap between the boots and board. They’re just incredibly comfy bindings from end to end. Plus, they feel solid too (Switchbacks almost have the look of a Playmobil toy, what with all those tool-free components). Even so, they’re rock solid. I think of all the bindings I tried this year, Switchback felt the most robust and bombproof in the hand.

If you’re the kind of rider who’s going to be giving your binders a fair dose of abuse throughout the season, these ones are primed to take whatever you throw at them. Then again, even if you just favour complete comfort over anything too aggressive or snappy, then Switchback have you covered in that department too.”

Tester’s Verdict 2018/19

Tom Copseyonboardmag.com

“These felt slightly to the stiffer end of the spectrum, but weren’t so overly responsive as to impede on more mellow shredding.

“You have the feeling of your lower leg being hugged in a loving embrace, perhaps by a mustachioed Icelander”

I’ve always liked the limpet-like hold of Switchback’s straps, and when they’re combined with the winged highbacks Halldor added to these you have the feeling of your lower leg being hugged in a loving embrace, perhaps by a mustachioed Icelander. It’s super comfy, and helps with your presses a tad.

The full-footbed pad was super cush and helped dispense with any chatter, and when paired up with Halldor’s board they look great too.”

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