Our favorite gear of the year (and the best around) from our latest issue series focusing on products, places, and personalities! Check out one of our Platinum Picks from Burton below!

Burton Step On Genesis EST Binding

MSRP: $379.95

When Burton unveiled its revolutionary EST binding in 2008, it seemed like the perfect pairing for the Channel mounting system. With this new binding, nearly infinite possibilities were available when it came to setting up your stance. It was the perfect solution for the most anal of us, including yours truly. 

Infinite adjustability wasn’t the only game changer with EST. The upper part of the binding was built from Burton’s existing tried-and-true bindings, so nothing was really different. EST mounts to the Channel via outriggers, which leaves the central footprint of the binding free of any stiff baseplate material. This allows your board to flex more freely and evenly from tip to tail and means that your foot gets to ride on a full-length multi-density EVA footbed. You can attack the mountain with everything you’ve got but still enjoy ample cushioning underfoot to soften big landings.

Built upon the popular Genesis binding, the Genesis EST unlocks Step On’s true response capabilities. With a stiffer chassis than the trustworthy Re:Flex Step On offerings, the Genesis EST opens a whole new realm when it comes to response. First off, that stiffer chassis also has a larger footprint, which creates more contact with your board. The EST’s highback is stouter, too, so you can more efficiently drive energy into your turns, and the response from edge to edge is instantaneous. Add to it the absorption dampening and additional flex you can get from your board from the EST chassis, and it’s an absolutely ripping match-up. 

—Basher