Setting up freestyle bindings primarily involves adjusting the angles so your feet point outwards, often called a "duck stance," which is ideal for riding switch and park.
A freestyle stance, commonly known as a "duck stance," positions your lead foot at a positive angle and your back foot at a negative angle relative to the snowboard's direction of travel. This symmetrical setup allows for comfortable riding in either direction (regular or switch) and improves balance for tricks in the park or on features.
Setting Your Binding Angles
The most critical part of setting up for freestyle is getting the angles right. Based on common recommendations for a freestyle setup:
- Front Foot: Set your front binding angle between +9 to +15 degrees.
- Back Foot: Set your back binding angle between -9 to -15 degrees.
As the reference states, you must Use -9 to -15 degrees in your back foot and +9 to +15 degrees in your front foot. Make sure your bindings are set in opposite directions towards the nose and tail for a freestyle stance. This ensures your toes point outwards on both feet.
Practical Steps:
- Locate the angle degree markings on your binding disc (usually found under the binding baseplate).
- Loosen the screws attaching the binding to the board.
- Rotate the binding to align the desired degree mark with the reference point on your board's insert pattern.
- Ensure the front binding has a positive angle (pointing towards the nose) and the back binding has a negative angle (pointing towards the tail).
- Tighten the screws securely, making sure not to over-tighten.
It's often helpful to start with symmetrical angles, like +12° and -12°, and adjust from there based on comfort and riding style.
Adjusting Stance Width
While not strictly about the angle, stance width is also key for comfort and stability. For freestyle, a wider stance can offer more stability for landings and presses. Most boards have multiple insert rows to allow for different widths. Experiment to find a width that feels natural – typically around shoulder-width apart.
Centering Your Bindings
Ensure your boots are centered heel-to-toe on the board when strapped into the bindings. Most bindings have adjustments (like adjustable heelcups or toe ramps) to shift your boot laterally, preventing toe or heel drag.
Example Angle Settings
Here are some common freestyle angle combinations:
| Front Foot Angle | Back Foot Angle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| +12° | -12° | Symmetrical, good starting point |
| +15° | -12° | Slightly more forward-oriented |
| +9° | -9° | Less aggressive duck angle |
By correctly setting your binding angles to point outwards towards the nose and tail, you create the balanced, symmetrical stance essential for freestyle snowboarding.
