If you’re the proud owner of that board, you know that the Burton Custom X is a high-performance snowboard that requires equally high-performance bindings.
The right bindings can make a huge difference in your riding experience, giving you the control and stability you need to take on any terrain.
When choosing bindings for the Burton Custom X, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for bindings that are stiff enough to match the board’s flex and provide the responsiveness you need for carving and jumping.
You’ll also want to consider the type of riding you’ll be doing, whether it’s all-mountain, freestyle, or something in between.
And of course, you’ll want to make sure the bindings are compatible with your boots and your board’s mounting system.
See also: How To Choose The Best Burton Snowboard Bindings
What is the Burton Custom X?
The high-perf Burton Custom X board is known for its precision and power, built for experienced riders who demand the best in speed and control.
The Custom X features a camber profile (upward curve in the middle and touches down at the tips) which gives it a lot of grip on icy surfaces and sharp turns.
It has a lightweight wooden core called the “Dragonfly 600G Core”. It’s a mix of different types of wood in specific areas to reduce weight without losing strength. The “Squeezebox High” technology also adds stiffness to the board’s nose and tail, making the board more responsive at high speeds.
Another important feature is the so-called “45° Carbon Highlights High Voltage”. This refers to the carbon layer construction, set at a 45-degree angle. This provides a balance of flexibility and torsional stiffness (the board can twist slightly but still keeps its shape). This is key for quick edge-to-edge transitions.
The Custom X also has a sintered WFO base. This type of base is known for its durability and ability to absorb wax, which makes the board faster.
The Custom X is primarily for advanced and expert riders and those who love speed, precision carving, and are confident in tackling challenging terrains. It’s not the best choice for beginners because of its aggressive nature and responsiveness.
See also: Which Burton Snowboard Should You Choose?
What to look for when choosing bindings for the Custom X
When selecting bindings, it’s key to focus on compatibility with the board’s high-performance nature.
Choose bindings that have a medium to stiff flex. This level of stiffness provides the responsiveness and control you need for this type of board, especially during aggressive carving and high-speed riding.
The highbacks on your bindings are also important. You want something supportive and responsive. A taller and stiffer highback is typically the best match for the Custom X. It gives you better control during quick turns and on steep terrain.
Regarding the straps and buckles of the bindings, they should secure your boots firmly yet comfortably, without causing any pressure points. Bindings with padded straps and smooth, easy-to-adjust buckles can make a big difference when riding.
Baseplate construction is another aspect to consider. The baseplate should provide a solid connection between your boots and the board. It should offer a mix of flexibility and rigidity which ensures efficient power transfer without sacrificing comfort.
The bindings should fit your boots snugly, without any unnecessary movement. This snug fit is vital for precision and control, especially given the demanding nature of the Burton Custom X.
See also: Snowboard, Boots, Bindings: Which Should You Buy First?
Should you necessarily use Burton bindings?
When considering bindings for the Custom X, Burton bindings are generally a good option, though not the only one.
Burton snowboards and bindings use two specific technologies that work well together: EST (Extra Sensory Technology) bindings and ICS (Infinite Channel System) boards.
EST bindings are designed by Burton with a unique mounting system. Unlike traditional bindings, which have a fixed baseplate with screw holes, EST bindings feature a baseplate with adjustable sliders.
This design allows for a more direct connection between the binding and the snowboard, enhancing board feel and flexibility. It provides better flex and feel, reduced weight, and increased cushioning.
ICS, or the Infinite Channel System, is a Burton-specific technology for snowboard design. Instead of the traditional pattern of screw holes, ICS boards have a single, long channel running down each side of where the bindings mount.
This channel system allows for highly adjustable and precise binding placement. You can slide the bindings to any point along the channel, giving you unparalleled control over your stance and board feel.
Paring EST bindings with an ICS board gives you several benefits:
- Since EST bindings don’t have a rigid baseplate, the snowboard flexes more naturally underfoot, improving feel and control.
- The ICS allows for almost infinite adjustments in binding angles and positions.
- Without the need for a full baseplate, EST bindings are generally lighter.
- EST bindings often have more cushioning underfoot, reducing fatigue and absorbing impacts.
This combination is popular among riders since it offers a highly customizable setup and maximizes the performance characteristics of their Burton snowboard.
If you own or pick a non-Burton binding with the Custom X, it needs to fit two main things. First, the binding must work with Burton’s special board system, The Channel. Many non-Burton bindings come with special discs or hardware to fit this system, which allows for a secure and adjustable connection to the board.
Second, the binding should be stiff and quick to respond to match the style of the Custom X which is made for fast and sharp snowboarding.
Also, make sure the binding suits how you like to snowboard. E.g. choose your binding based on whether you like to go fast and hard or want something comfortable for different types of snow.
Binding recommendations for the Burton Custom X
In this section, we look at four popular binding models snowboarders often suggest as great matches for the Burton Custom X:
- Burton Cartel X
- Burton Genesis
- Burton Malavita
- Union Force
See also: Union vs Burton Snowboard Bindings: Battle Of The Titans
Burton Cartel X EST
One of the top binding recommendations for the Burton Custom X snowboard is the Burton Cartel X EST. This binding is highly compatible with performance-oriented Burton boards like the Custom X.
As an aggressive all-mountain binding, the Cartel X’s stiff flex and durable construction suit the demands of the powerful Custom X across varied terrain.
This binding is a great option for the Custom X because of its focus on precision, control, and responsiveness. It combines a stiff flex, high-quality strap system, and EST baseplate technology that helps you get the most out of the Custom X.
The Cartel X has a stiff flex ideal for the aggressive riding style that the Custom X is known for. This stiffness ensures precise control and power transfer. This makes it easier to navigate challenging terrains.
The Cartel X has a slightly canted highback, aligning perfectly with your leg position. This provides excellent support and responsiveness, crucial for quick, sharp turns.
The strap system on the Cartel X EST provide good comfort and efficiency and a secure, pressure-free fit that keep your boots firmly in place.
The Cartel X EST is specifically designed to work with Burton’s The Channel mounting system (see earlier section).
Burton Genesis X
The Burton Genesis X is an excellent binding choice as it’s designed to complement advanced, performance-oriented boards like the Custom X.
With a mid-stiff flex and features focused on transmitting energy, the Genesis X is a good match for demanding riders pushing the Custom X to its limits in challenging conditions. The binding can handle quick movements and sharp turns, essential for a high performance board.
The highbacks on the Genesis X feature a lightweight design and have the unique Kickback Hammock feature. This hammock-like suspension cradles your heel, enhancing response while reducing vibration.
This results in a smoother ride and better control, especially at high speeds or on challenging terrains.
The Burton Hammockstrap and Supergrip Capstrap system ensure a snug and pressure-free fit. Your boots stay firmly in place, which results in precision without causing discomfort.
The Genesis X also features a cushioning system that reduces fatigue and absorbs impacts, ideal for long days on the slopes.
As with other Burton bindings, the Genesis X is fully compatible with The Channel system found on the Custom X. This ensures easy mounting and a perfect fit, allowing for optimal board flex and feel.
Note that its price point may not suit all budgets.
Burton Malavita
The Burton Malavita is another great binding option for the Burton Custom X. It offers a medium flex resulting in a nice balance between responsiveness and comfort.
As a mid-flex daily driver however, the Malavita may not have the plush feel or supportive response preferred for really attacking terrain on the Custom X. But its customizable flex can provide a balanced feel for most all-mountain riding.
The Malavita is responsive enough for quick, sharp movements, crucial when riding a high-performance board like the Custom X. At the same time, it has enough give to make your ride comfortable on longer sessions.
The Malavita’s highbacks provide excellent support and responsiveness. They help in precise control and maneuvering, essential for the kind of dynamic riding the Custom X is built for.
In terms of comfort, the Malavita shines with its cushioning and strap design. The straps hold your boots securely without causing pressure points, and the cushioning in the baseplate helps absorb shocks. This is particularly nice when you’re riding on rough terrain or landing jumps.
As a mid-flex daily driver, the Malavita may not have the plush feel or supportive response preferred for really attacking terrain on the Custom X. But its customizable flex can provide a balanced feel for most all-mountain riding.
Union Force
The Union Force is a good non-Burton binding choice for the Custom X as it offers a ncie combination of strength, responsiveness, and versatility. As one of the stiffest options, the Force can pair well with the Custom X for aggressive riding.
Note that it may be overly stiff for casual days. Its freeride focus may not suit park or groomer riding either.
The medium to stiff flex of the Union Force allow these bindings to keep up with the demanding nature of the Custom X. They provide the necessary strength and quick response you need for fast turns and challenging conditions, while allowing you to maintain control and stability.
Durability is a key strength of the Union Force. These bindings are built to withstand heavy use. They won’t wear out quickly, many riders rely on them season after season. They are a good investment if you’re a frequent snowboarder.
Comfort is also a major plus. The straps and cushioning in the Union Force feel super comfortable on the feet and reduce fatigue during long riding sessions.
The highbacks are especially effective for controlling your board. They offer the support and responsiveness needed for precise steering and balance, essential for high-speed runs or advanced tricks.
The Union Force is versatile enough to handle various snowboarding styles, be it aggressive downhill runs, hitting big jumps, or mellow cruising.
To use the Union Force bindings with the Burton Custom X’s “The Channel” system, you’ll need a Channel-compatible disc. This allows the Union Force bindings, which are traditionally designed for standard mounting systems, to be attached to the Custom X.