Big Guy with Wakeboard Binding Issues

[BigBald]

I have an Obrien Link3 binding on an Obrien wakeboard. I am 6'-5" and about 255 lbs or so....depends on the day. I didn't spend a ton on the board and binding combo...was told that the board would be good for several binding upgrades...

As far as my wakeboarding....I am not great, but I am starting to get close to wake to wake jumps. Nothing special, but starting to get some air and guts.

I am noticing that occasionally I feel that the interior sides of the binding will slip or stretch away from the bottom. It will kind-of pinch or a least feel weird. This happens on hard landings and such.

Is this typical for this binding? Is this due to my weight? Is it time to start thinking about an upgrade next summer?

Thoughts?

[NautiqueJeff]

I would recommend moving into some better-structured bindings. While the ones you have are probably fine for beginning wakeboarders, once you start moving into bigger jumps and things like that, you will need additional support. Bindings should be snug enough so that your foot doesn't move much at all. Bindings should never pinch your foot.

For example, I use Hyperlite Temet bindings. They have three different systems that control how tight certain parts of the bindings are, and they are independently adjustable. Compare the photo of the Temet to the one of your current binding, and you'll see how much more adjustable a higher-quality binding can be. I am not necessarily saying that you should get this particular binding, just trying to show you how much more support you would get from taking the next step in binding quality. Head to your local boardshop, and try some different bindings on. See which feels best to you, and go with it.

[BigBald]

Thanks for the info.

I am also noticing more bindings that go higher up the ankle. Seems to me that would also add some support.