In this section we discuss the differences between footstraps and multi-strap bindings, as well as future developments in footstrap design and manufacturing.
Ocean Culture currently offer two types of sandboard bindings - Adjustable Footstraps and Multi Strap Bindings... What is the difference between the two and which should you choose?
The 4x4 bolt-insert Multi-Strap Binding system is designed to give optimum board performance and control, as well as provide a most comfortable and secure footstrap binding not offered by many sandboard manufacturers in the marketplace.
Originating from an idea in 1995, Ocean Culture's simple yet effective 3 strap design has been tried and tested over many years and as a result remains the benchmark of our footstrap design development... The purpose, to always keep the barefooted rider strapped firmly to the board without any compromise or hassle and to improve the overall sandboarding experience.
Configured over a 4x4 bolt-insert set up and designed to interchange between goofy and natural stance, Multi-Straps Bindings incorporates 50mm wide velcro-adjustable footstraps and durable, thickly padded 50mm elastic heelstraps & toestraps that wrap the foot completely (similar to a bungee sandle)
The advantages -
Durable and lightweight. Easy to access and release. These bindings will stay firm on your feet, allowing you far greater foot/ankle support and board manoeuvrability. The other advantages of having your feet fully "strapped-in" enables maximum control over direction and speed - you can lean further into turns, keeping the rail firmly on edge for frontside and backside turns, using 'toe' and 'heel-side' carving methods, and also being able to land jumps and recover more easily.
It is most important to have a comfortable and secure binding to keep you in control, giving you a better feel for the board and get the response while you ride, which helps to improve your sandboarding skills.
This is the binding we highly recommend for performance riding!
Multi Strap Bindings are available on the Freecarve 'Comp' and 'Pro', Freeride 'Hybrid' and 'Villain', Freestyle 'Trick and 'Assault', Terrain 'Combat', Race 'Journey' and 'Epic' models, and also the Jumpboard 'Rebel' and Bandit'
Using a simple 2x2 bolt-insert pattern, the Adjustable Footstrap option is considered an 'entry level' binding system which is ideal for beginners or the cost conscious. Offering adequate foot security and board control, the 'open ended' strap allows the rider to bail from the board since the heel is not secured and can be easily freed.
Some riders prefer this type of binding because it's an easy strap to "step" into and ride the board by "tensing" a foothold, which is acceptable, although in the case of a crash (often in jump-boarding) your feet can slip out very easily and cause you to instantly lose control of the board.This can be hazardous, particularly for injuries to shins, feet and heels.
The advantages -
The straps are lightweight, easy to adjust and are very comfortable. Also, cost! The basic footstrap setup is a cheaper option if you're just getting into the sport and don't see the benefit in spending the extra $$'s on the multi-strap binding system. And, you can always upgrade by adding the short heel straps which attach to the same bolt mount as the footstrap. The heel strap is fastened by using longer screws on the standard 2x2 bolt hole mount.
Adjustable Footstraps (and optional heel straps) are available on all Jumpboards, Freeride 'Hybrid' and the Terrain 'Combat' board models.
Currently in development -
We're working on a plate style bungee binding that will offer more stand options as well as easily changable system for positioning the binding along the deck to suit your preferred stance - make it wider or narrower and angle your feet square style or run it 45 degrees.... Hopefully the choice will be yours!
