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Union Expedition 2018-2019 Splitboard Bindings Review

Splitboarding is more popular than ever, but the extra level of complication and expense is still off-putting for many. However, the binding specialists at Union reckon they’ve got just the thing to bring the naysayers to the table.

The Union Expedition splitboard bindings are designed with the descent as the top priority. Weight has been saved wherever possible, and the changeover system made simple, but no pair of binders around feels as traditional as these once you’ve got them mounted.

“Once you’ve switched to riding mode, you won’t ever feel like you need to hold back”

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The highback, for example, is a dead ringer for the one found on the ever-popular Union Force. The heel riders and connecting pin are neatly concealed in a baseplate similar to that of the Atlas, complete with bombproof extruded aluminium heelcup, and the straps and buckles are conventional too.

The pin system isn’t without some issues, but you could say the same of most of its competitors too. With a bit of practice it’ll come naturally, and it really is very simple. Then once you’ve switched to riding mode, you won’t ever feel like you need to hold back. Solid, dependable and comfortable, the Union Expedition bindings tick all the right boxes.

They come with everything you need, so there’s no extra pucks required. For those who prefer a stiffer binding (or just have a carbon fetish), the Union Expedition FC is a souped-up, pricier version.

Tester’s Verdict

Ed Leigh

“Union has succeeded in making the best splitboard bindings I have ever ridden.

If you are going to compromise on binding performance whilst splitboarding, then it should be on the way up, not when you’re riding down. In touring mode they are great, though; like those from Spark R&D they are very simple, relatively light and have very sturdy, easy-to-operate heel risers.

“The best splitboard bindings I have ever ridden”

The only downside are the transitions between touring and riding. Like so many splitboard systems, this one looks great in your front room when you’re setting it up. But add in all the snow and ice you build up on a tour, and it can be frustrating.

The pin system that locks the binding to the board in ride mode is very fussy and can be hard to unclip. I consider myself to be pretty strong and I nearly wrenched my finger joints trying to yank the pin loops. That said, after 20 or 30 goes I’m sure it would loosen up.

But I stand by my original statement – these bindings ride like normal bindings and I was able to turn a splitboard on hard pack like never before. Also as one of the cheapest split bindings on the market, these are impossible to ignore.”

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