Pathron XT With The Fastec System
It is fair to say I was more than a little excited to carry out this Pathron XT Bindings review, as I was interested to see how I would get on with their rear entry Fastec system.
Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings
When Burton launched their step-on bindings to a frenzied media, it felt like a shift in snowboarders mentality who were eager to explore possibilities away from the conventional strap in bindings.
Lets all be honest, it has always been a bit of a hassle having to strap in each time. Also, the cause of much jokes and jibes amongst our skier friends who simply just have to click into their ski bindings and they are off. How I used to envy them!
Of course, rear entry snowboard bindings have been around for many years but have never become as popular as many thought they would. The reason for this is that for years they looked clunky, heavy, and lacked that deft touch for subtle movement. Are the Pathron XT bindings any different?
Pathron XT Bindings
In a nutshell; yes! Compared to other rear entry snowboard bindings I have seen, they are super light. Both straps are comfortable, easily adjustable, easy to strap in, as well as having a fast release. The toe bindings allow for total control at all times. I was really impressed!
What I like about the Pathron XT bindings is that if you choose, you can use them in a more conventional method of strapping your boots in. This can be handy in a difficult scenario such as being stuck in deep powder.
I also like the simplistic but stylish black design. It is also worth mentioning that I have been riding them for a few weeks now and they seem very robust.
Fastec System – Rear Entry Snowboard Bindings
The Fastec system is so easy to use. First of all, I simply stepped into the bindings and strapped my feet in like I would with conventional snowboard bindings. Once I had done this and made some little tweaks, I was good to go.
I then released my feet from the bindings by pulling down on a clip at the back of the binding which releases the highback, and then releasing the front strap using a clip mechanism. Then I simply stepped out from the back.
I must admit that after a few initial runs, I did need to make a few small adjustments. But once I had nailed it there was no looking back!
To put the Pathron XT bindings on is even easier. I Simply stepped in, pulled the highback up into position, clicked the binding strap clip down, and I was good to go.
The only time I had a bit of difficulty in releasing my feet from the bindings was in a sitting down position. Of course, for the high majority of the time you will not need to do this and so will not be a problem. And if it is, just release the straps like any conventional snowboard bindings.
Pathron XT Bindings – What Are They Like To Ride?
I usually ride with Burton Mission bindings and if I am being bluntly honest, The Pathron XT bindings felt no different.
I felt it was an easy and smooth transition from toe to heal and vice versa, maintaining optimal control at all times. I hit a few kickers and the landings felt nice and cushioned. I also rode with these off-piste and they felt comfortable at all times.
The straps were easy to adjust allowing the bindings to be done up tight without any pinching. I did find however that for the bindings quick access (Fastec) system to work properly, it is best not to have them too tight. This is the sort of adjustments you can get right on the first few runs.
Pathron XT bindings – Sizing
I have UK size 9 feet and usually ride with size large Burton bindings. But with the Pathron XT I needed XL.
Pathron XT Bindings Review – Final Words
I absolutely loved the Pathron XT bindings. The Fastec rear entry system is simple and works really well. I didn’t feel that I lost any feel, control or comfort compared to conventional bindings.
Would I recommend them? Hell, yes! In fact, it will be hard for me to go back to strapping my feet in each time.
Features
Highback
- Lightweight fibre compound material
- Tool-less Forward Lean Adjustment
- Rotateable
- Asymmetrical
Ankle Strap
- 3D-Tech
- Ultralight-Tech
- EVO buckles
Review Summary
Gender: Unisex
Good for: Snowboarding
Price: £130.00
Rating: 9.5 out of 10