How exactly do you take one of the best bindings out there (the Katana) and make it even better (the Katana Pro)? By adding 30% more carbon to both the highback and the baseplate. Starting at the baseplate, which is enveloped in EVA padding, the interface between board and binding is seamless on this new model, with a full-footprint pad that acts as a buffer in the space between. Rome has a hit on their hands. (As well as a hit with their new project, Particle.)

Then there are the straps, which, in my opinion, are some of the best in the game. That’s quite the claim, but here’s why: Both toe and heel feature Rome’s AuxTech, where the flexible strap material is molded with auxetic shapes. What does that mean? As an auxetic pattern is stretched and flexed, it becomes increasingly stiffer. What does it mean while you’re riding? Because of the spaces, the toe strap comfortably wraps over the top of your boot while the increased surface area of the edges of the auxetic shapes provides excellent grip. It doesn’t slip, and you won’t feel pressure points.

But the auxetic heel strap is where the real magic is. Again, as the pattern flexes, the strap’s support increases exponentially. This makes the Katana Pro very free-feeling while you’re flat-based, yet as you get up on your toe edge, the heel strap gradually dials up the intensity while remaining incredibly supportive even when dealing with the compression of flat landings and heavy toe-side hacks.

The Katana Pro retains just the right balance of support and flexibility through your ankle’s entire range of motion. The AsymWrap heel cup, which has two points of contact on the binding’s instep and one at the ankle’s outstep, provides ample support for the highback to perform, but allows better lateral range of motion in your ankle for a surfier, tweakier feel. These go to 11. 

—Basher