Are the New Snowboarding Products Worth the Hype?
If you’re a fan of snowboarding, you’re probably always on the lookout for the latest and greatest gear. But with so many new products hitting the market every year, it can be tough to know which ones are really worth your time and money.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most hyped-up new snowboarding products and evaluate whether or not they live up to the hype.
1. Burton Step On Bindings
Burton’s new Step On bindings are creating a lot of buzz in the snowboarding world. They promise to make it easier and faster to get in and out of your bindings, and to provide better overall performance compared to traditional strap bindings.
But are they really worth the hype? Here’s what we think:
Pros:
– The biggest advantage of the Step On bindings is how fast and easy they are to use. You simply step onto the binding and it locks in place, with no need to fuss with straps or ratchets.
– They provide a really secure and snug fit, which can help you feel more connected to your board and improve your control.
– They also have a really responsive feel, which is great for more advanced riders who need quick reactions.
Cons:
– One of the biggest drawbacks of the Step On bindings is that they’re only compatible with Burton boots. If you already own a pair of non-Burton boots, you’ll need to buy new ones if you want to use these bindings.
– They can be a bit tricky to get used to at first, especially if you’re used to using strap bindings. It may take a bit of time to get the hang of stepping in and out of them smoothly.
– They’re also quite expensive – at around $400, they’re significantly pricier than most traditional bindings.
Our verdict: Overall, we think the Step On bindings are worth the hype if you’re a Burton loyalist and don’t mind shelling out a bit of extra cash. They really do make getting in and out of your bindings a breeze, and they provide great performance. However, if you’re not already using Burton boots, you may want to stick with traditional bindings.
2. BOA Snowboard Boots
BOA snowboard boots are another product that’s generating a lot of buzz in the snowboarding world. These boots use a special BOA lacing system that allows you to quickly adjust the tightness of your boot using a simple knob.
But do they really offer any significant advantages over traditional laced boots? Let’s take a look:
Pros:
– One of the biggest advantages of BOA boots is how easy they are to adjust on-the-fly. You can quickly tighten or loosen them to get the perfect fit, without needing to stop and re-tie your laces.
– They also tend to be really comfortable and offer a great fit. The BOA system allows the boot to mold to your foot more precisely than traditional laces, which can help with overall comfort and control.
– Some BOA boots also offer additional features, like heat-moldable liners or adjustable flex options, that can make them an even more appealing option for some riders.
Cons:
– One of the biggest drawbacks of BOA boots is that the lacing system can sometimes break or malfunction, which can be a major problem if you’re out on the mountain and can’t fix it. You’ll need to weigh the convenience of the system against the potential risks.
– They can also be a bit more expensive than traditional laced boots. If you’re on a tight budget, they may not be the best option.
– Some riders also don’t like the look of BOA boots, or find them less customizable than laced boots.
Our verdict: In general, we think BOA boots are a worthwhile investment for riders who prioritize comfort and convenience. They offer great adjustability and a snug fit, and can make your overall snowboarding experience more enjoyable. However, if you’re concerned about the potential for the lacing system to break, or you’re not a fan of the look of BOA boots, you may want to stick with traditional laced boots.
3. Magnetic Lens Interchange System Goggles
Magnetic lens interchange system goggles are another new product that’s getting a lot of attention from snowboarders. These goggles use a magnet-based system to allow you to quickly swap out lenses without needing to take the goggles off.
But do they really make a significant difference compared to traditional goggles? Let’s take a closer look:
Pros:
– The biggest advantage of magnetic lens goggles is obviously the convenience factor. You can quickly swap out lenses depending on the weather and lighting conditions, without needing to fuss around with a bunch of parts.
– They also tend to offer a really wide field of vision, which can be great for riders who need to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
– Many magnetic lens goggles also come with additional features, like anti-fog technology or glare-reducing coatings, that can make them an even more attractive option for some riders.
Cons:
– Magnet-based systems can sometimes be less durable than traditional methods, and there’s always the risk of the lens popping out or falling off if you hit a gnarly bump or fall.
– They can also be quite expensive, especially if you’re looking for high-quality lenses and features.
– Some riders also find that the magnetic system can be a bit finicky to use, especially if you have large or gloved hands.
Our verdict: Overall, we think magnetic lens goggles are a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for convenience and a wide field of vision. They offer a lot of great features and can make your snowboarding experience more enjoyable. However, if you’re concerned about durability or find the magnetic system difficult to use, you may want to stick with traditional goggles.
Conclusion
So, are the new snowboarding products worth the hype? As with most things in life, the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Step On bindings, BOA boots, and magnetic lens goggles all offer great advantages, but they also come with some potential drawbacks.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide whether the extra convenience, comfort, and performance are worth the extra cost. We hope this blog post has helped you make a more informed decision about which new snowboarding products are worth the investment. Happy shredding!
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