This guide covers everything you need to know about Burton Step On:
A Brief History of Step On
How Step On Works
Pros of the System
Cons to Consider
Step On vs. Other Step-In Bindings
Step On vs. Traditional Strap Bindings
How to Use Step On Correctly
FAQs From Riders
Back in the early 2010s, Burton founder Jake Burton Carpenter challenged his engineers with a mission: make snowboarding easier and more accessible without sacrificing performance. After five years of R&D, endless prototypes, and feedback from riders of all levels, Burton released Step On® bindings and boots in 2017.
The concept was simple but revolutionary — a strapless system that’s intuitive, fast, and reliable. And unlike earlier step-in designs from the 1990s, Step On proved it could deliver real performance.
The system consists of boots and bindings engineered to work together. Here’s the breakdown:
Heel Cleat – Located on the back of the boot, it locks securely into the binding’s heel clip.
Toe Cleats – Found on both sides of the boot, they snap into the toe hooks of the binding for edge-to-edge control.
Release Lever – A lever on the heelcup lets you step out instantly.
This three-point locking design creates a secure and responsive ride while eliminating straps altogether.
Speed & Convenience – Step in and ride away. No bending over, no frozen fingers.
Performance – The three locking points provide direct energy transfer for responsive carving.
Comfort – No straps digging into your boots means fewer pressure points and less foot fatigue.
Consistency – Works well across the mountain, from groomers to powder.
Boot Compatibility – You need Step On boots, which can’t be used with regular strap bindings.
Price – The system costs more upfront since you need both boots and bindings.
Limited Options – Fewer models than traditional strap setups.
5. Step On vs. Other Step-In Bindings
Step-in bindings from the ’90s often connected under the foot with metal bars and plates, which reduced board feel and were notorious for clogging with snow. Burton learned from those failures.
With Step On, the connection happens at the heelcup and toes — exactly where power is transferred during turns. The design avoids snow clogging and keeps walking comfort intact since there’s no bulky metal underfoot.
6. Step On vs. Traditional Strap Bindings
Traditional bindings are adjustable and widely available, but they take time to strap in. Step On eliminates that delay while offering similar (and in some cases better) edge-to-edge response.
Riders often report that Step On feels quicker from initiation to follow-through on turns, likely because the boot connects directly to the binding without strap flex.
It’s simple, but practice makes perfect.
Heel First – Line up your boot and press your heel back until it clicks.
Lock the Toes – Lean forward to snap both toe cleats into place.
Go Ride – Test by rocking side-to-side, then drop in.
To Exit – Pull the release lever on the binding’s heelcup and lift your heel out.
Pro tip: Use the pant clip above the heel cleat to keep your cuffs out of the way.
8. Step On FAQs
Q: What boards are Step On bindings compatible with?
A: Step On bindings use Burton’s Re:Flex system, which works with The Channel®, 2x4, and even 3D hole patterns (with the right disc).
Q: Do they work in powder?
A: Yes. Just clear snow from the binding footbed before stepping in.
Q: Can I use them in the park?
A: Definitely. Many Burton team riders use Step On for park laps.
Q: Do Step On boots fit like regular boots?
A: Yes, they’re built with the same liners and materials as Burton’s other boots.
Q: How durable is the system?
A: Built to handle hard riding. The baseplate has a lifetime warranty, with 1-year coverage on other parts.
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