Snowboard bindings attach securely to the board primarily using screws that thread into inserts embedded within the board's core.
The connection between a snowboard binding and the board is crucial for rider control and performance. This attachment is achieved through a standardized system involving screws and predefined mounting patterns on the snowboard.
The Attachment Mechanism
The fundamental method for securing snowboard bindings to a board relies on four screws used to mount each binding. These screws pass through a mounting plate or disc at the base of the binding. This disc is designed with slots or holes that align with threaded inserts within the snowboard.
- Each binding unit (for one foot) requires four screws for proper attachment.
- These screws thread directly into metal inserts permanently set into the snowboard during manufacturing.
Understanding Mounting Patterns
Snowboards are manufactured with multiple rows of these threaded inserts. The specific arrangement and spacing of these inserts define the board's mounting pattern. This pattern determines where a rider can place their bindings and allows for adjustment of stance width and angle.
Typically, snowboards feature 6-8 holes per row of inserts, providing flexibility in positioning. Different patterns exist across brands and models:
- 4x4 Pattern: An older standard with inserts spaced 4 cm apart both horizontally and vertically.
- 4x2 Pattern: A widely adopted standard. As of 2021, the 4x2 pattern is the most common mounting option for non-Burton snowboards. This pattern features inserts spaced 4 cm horizontally and 2 cm vertically, allowing for finer stance width adjustments.
- The Channel System: Primarily used by Burton Snowboards, this system utilizes two continuous channels routed into the board instead of discrete inserts. Bindings designed for The Channel use specialized hardware that slides within the channels, offering extensive stance customization.
Here’s a quick look at common patterns:
| Mounting Pattern | Insert Spacing (H x V) | Commonality (Non-Burton, as of 2021) | Binding Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4x4 Pattern | 4 cm x 4 cm | Less Common | 4x4 compatible bindings |
| 4x2 Pattern | 4 cm x 2 cm | Most Common | 4x2, Multi-pattern bindings |
| The Channel | Sliding Channel | Primarily Burton | Channel-specific bindings |
In summary, the secure attachment of snowboard bindings is accomplished by fastening each binding to the board using four screws that engage with the board's embedded inserts, following a specific mounting pattern like the common 4x2 system.
