BINDINGS
VS STRAPS
- with Ben Archer -
Kitesurfing itself is one of the fastest
growing watersports around to date.
This means that styles of riding are
always changing as the equipment
advances. One of the main noticeable
changes you will see down at your local
beach or in pictures and videos, is that
a lot of riders are changing from pads
and straps to wearing bindings. So for
those of you who are thinking about
making the transfer and are unsure
on what the advantages and what the
disadvantages are of both; or if riding
in bindings is the right move for you,
here is all the information you’ll need to
make the right choice.
Pads and Straps
Straps allow for a much greater range
of motion than boots, which creates
a slight decrease of leverage on the
board. They also have the tendency to
release when not desired, making for
an interesting situation. Straps allow
getting your board on and off when
setting out a breeze; just jump in and
ride. They will also allow you to bust
out some of the old school moves such
as board offs, leg outs and the good
old can-can. You may feel much more
comfortable to start off with when riding
straps, especially when you feel you