Since their inception in 2005, Union has been 100% devoted to making the best bindings on the planet and have more snowboarders trusting their bindings than any other brand on the market. They've now completely redefined how a freestyle binding should ride with the new Ultra binding. Featuring the durability & longevity Union is known for, plus brand new tech-- the Ultra's are bound to be a new favorite for freestyle riders.
What makes the Ultra's different?
The game changers for these are the new molecular bushings found in the baseplate & highback. This bushing layer is reactive to movement, giving you spring-loaded take offs & perfectly cushioned landings. Every component of the Ultra acts as a suspension system for your boots, loading and unloading with each movement as you snowboard.
By removing excess material at the toe and heel of the baseplate and utilizing a new asymmetrical shape, torsional flex of the binding is dramatically increased. The extruded 3D aluminum heel cup gives optimum heel hold and minimizes drag. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) is a resilient material used in footwear, which dampens and reduces vibration in the outsole of the Ultra.
Offered with identical tech for both men's & women's sizes, everyone can enjoy the new Ultra's. Coming in at 780g & 815g respectively for women & men's size medium, these bindings are super lightweight.
Who are the Ultra's made for?
The previous Ultra (discontinued in 2020) was a much different, stiffer binding. With more cushion and flex, the revamped Ultra is geared towards freestyle riders. That being said, they are effective as a playful, all-mountain freestyle and powder surfing binding too. If you prefer a stiff, canted binding with adjustable forward lean & ankle straps, the Ultra isn't for you. But if you like a playful, mid-flexing binding or you spend your days sending jump lines in the park, smashing side hits and buttering: the Ultra's might be just the ticket.
What are riders saying about the Ultra?
Those who've been lucky enough to try these say they have great shock absorption & chatter dampening while maintaining board feel. The new bushings seem to make a big difference in reducing foot fatigue too. The molecular highback offers increased freestyle flex with quick edge-to-edge power. They feel intuitive underfoot and give a smooth, surfy feel when paired with a powder board.
After years of smashing herself into the ground, Jess Kimura says the Ultra's are life changing. Calling them orthopaedic shoe's for her snowboard, they've allowed her to power through landings pain free. Tested by the likes of Mike Ravelson, Scott Stevens, Austin Vizz & Gigi Ruff, we can't wait to try for ourselves.
Still have questions? Our staff would love to help. Shoot us a line or head over to our Banff shop to learn more about Union bindings!