How to Properly Put Your Foot Into Ski and Wakeboard Bindings

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water skier or wakeboarder, putting your foot into your binding correctly is key — not just for comfort, but also to prolong the life of your boots and make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for all types of bindings and give you tips to make it easier and stress-free.

Why Correctly Fitting Bindings Matters

When bindings aren’t worn or fitted correctly:

• Your foot can move around, decreasing control.

• Water may leak in, creating drag or discomfort.

• You can prematurely wear out your boots, leading to frequent replacements.

By following these tips, you’ll maximize boot lifespan, improve performance, and make getting in and out of bindings effortless.

1. Heel Slide Adjust Bindings (Combo Skis)

The heel slide adjust binding is commonly found on combo skis. Here’s the easiest way to get in:

1. Slide the heel all the way back.

2. Peel open the front toe rubber and push your heel to the side.

3. Wiggle your toes to the front of the binding — make sure your foot and binding are wet; it makes entry much easier.

4. Use the holes in the heel rubber as leverage to position your heel correctly.

5. Slide your heel forward until snug and secure.

Getting out: Loosen your heel and slide your foot out gently.

2. Slalom Ski Bindings (Bungee & Static Lace)

For slalom bindings, the common mistake is jamming the heel down with dry feet. This shortens boot life and makes entry difficult.

Correct method:

1. Stand directly over the boot and wet your foot.

2. Don’t force your heel down. Use leverage from the handle at the back and push your foot forward.

3. Adjust bungee lace tension over the ankle and static lace over the forefoot.

4. Secure the lace clips/hooks to prevent flapping while skiing.

Removing the binding:

• Release tension from the laces.

• Lift the small button or clip and slide your foot out by stepping forward.

3. Wakeboard Bindings (Closed-Toe Boots)

Closed-toe wakeboard boots also benefit from the same care:

1. Stand directly over the boot and wet your foot.

2. Point your toe and slide your foot forward. Avoid jamming your heel.

3. Tighten laces from bottom to top and lock the pull tabs.

Removing the binding: Loosen the laces like you would a shoe and step out carefully.

4. Rubber Style Bindings (Old-School Slalom)

Rubber bindings are a bit trickier. Wetting your foot and binding alone isn’t enough — you’ll need a little lubrication.

Steps:

1. Mix dishwashing liquid with water and spray inside the binding and on your foot.

2. Use the holes at the back of the heel rubber to leverage your heel down.

3. Push your foot forward, don’t jam it down.

4. To remove, lift your heel and twist your ankle sideways while stepping out.

Tips for Longevity

• Always wet your feet before putting on bindings.

• Avoid forcing your foot into any boot.

• Regularly rinse your bindings after use to remove salt or debris.

• Secure laces and straps properly to prevent wear and tear.

Following these steps will make your boots last longer, protect your feet, and make skiing or wakeboarding more enjoyable.

Shop the Gear

Looking for bindings or boots? We stock a wide range of combo ski bindings, slalom bindings, wakeboard boots, and old-school rubber bindings.

Check out our selection here: Water Skiers World