Why We Chose The Spark Surge ST
Spark R&D have a deserved reputation as splitboarding specialists, and the Surge ST represents their most powerful binding – delivering stiff response and bomber reliability for serious backcountry missions.
“The Surge ST is made for riders who need absolute confidence when the consequences are real”
Who Is The Spark Surge ST For?
Heavier and/or more advanced backcountry tourers who prioritize precision and response over forgiveness. If you’re looking to access critical lines (think steep couloirs and fast, wide-open faces) this reliable powerhouse has got your back. The Surge ST isn’t interested in being described as ‘playful’ or ‘surfy’ – it’s made for riders who need absolute confidence when the consequences are real.
Baseplate
The Surge ST features a CNC-machined aluminium baseplate that delivers maximum stiffness and durability in sub-zero temps. Unlike the Arc ST with its cutouts for weight savings, the Surge keeps more material, prioritising rigidity and power transfer. This is a binding that won’t flex or chatter when you’re driving hard through crud or variable conditions.
The ST Touring Brackets showcase Spark’s smart use of materials. Rather than using brass bushings, Spark overmolds plastic directly through the aluminium bracket holes – increasing durability a whopping four times. Keen tourers care about details like this, which will keep them enjoying friction-free ascents season after season.
The built-in ST Whammy Bar climbing wire is another case in point. Overmolded thermoplastic sections where the bar contacts the baseplate allow for super-smooth deployment, transitioning between 12° and 18° positions. It works so well it’s pretty much the industry standard at this point. Oh, and if you’re starting to wonder what exactly ST stands for, it’s “smooth touring”. ‘Nuff said.
“The wide, asymmetrical ankle straps offer incredible all-around support”
Straps and Highback
The Surge ST Asym Rip ‘N’ Flip highback packs in a high amount of fibreglass for a stiff ride and maximum response. It’s an asymmetrical design (i.e. individual left and right highbacks) for natural ergonomics, with a flattened top section that gives riders plenty of lateral freedom. The split-specific forward lean adjustment toggles easily between tour and ride mode – another Spark innovation that deserves to be on every splitboard binding.
The wide Pillow Line ankle straps are deceptively simple yet incredibly effective. Made from one-piece molded construction and produced entirely in-house, the Surge ST ankle straps are wide and asymmetrical around the boot for incredible all-around support. We honestly don’t know why regular binding brands don’t use something similar – the design offers better hold with less bulk than traditional padded straps, and they’re completely waterproof.
“The Surge ST truly represents the gold standard for aggressive splitboard bindings”
Roundup
Burton’s decision to license Spark’s system for their Hitchhiker range speaks volumes about its superiority. The T1 system is simple, quick to use, and doesn’t suffer from icing or snow clogging issues that plague many pin systems. Our tester’s experience across diverse conditions – from icy Svalbard descents to fluffy Uzbekistan powder – confirms what many splitboarders already know: Spark’s system just works.
The Surge ST is Spark’s most powerful version, built for riders who need maximum response on serious terrain. The ST improvements make touring noticeably smoother, while the stiff construction inspires confidence on technical descents. Available in three colors (Black, Green, Violet), it truly represents the gold standard for aggressive splitboard bindings.
Pros
- Maximum stiffness and response for technical terrain
- ST Touring Brackets last way longer than brass bushing alternatives
- Industry-leading T1 system doesn’t ice up or clog with snow
- Wide Pillow Line straps provide superior support
Cons
- Heavier than the Arc ST
- Stiff flex not ideal for lighter or less aggressive riders
- All those premium, specialist features come at a higher price
Tester Verdict
Tristan Kennedy
“Spark’s splitboard binding system has basically become the industry standard these days – there’s a good reason why snowboarding’s biggest brand, Burton, pays to license it for their Hitchhiker range. It’s simple, quick to use, and doesn’t suffer from problems with icing up or snow clogging that plague many pin systems. I’ve ridden Spark bindings in all kinds of conditions, from icy descents in Svalbard to fluffy Tien Shan powder in Uzbekistan, and they’ve always served me brilliantly. Since the first set of Surges I tried (the winter 2020-21 model) Spark have changed their manufacturing process – and added ‘ST’ which stands for ‘smooth touring’ to the name. To look at, not much has changed, but when I started touring, I noticed instantly that the climbing wires snapped up and down way more easily, and the brackets felt smoother too.”
Buy the Spark Surge ST Splitboard Bindings 2025-2026: from $489 at SPARKRANDD.COM
