FASE bindings

FASE™ is introducing the next generation of fast entry snowboard bindings for the 2025-2026 winter season. The innovative FASE system combines the solid locked-in feel of a traditional strap binding with the convenience of a fast entry system.

About the system

FASE is a system integrated into existing binding models from Jones, Rome, Bataleon, and ThirtyTwo.

Main features:

• Quick entry: step into the binding and press a pedal on the heel cup, the highback automatically snaps into place.
• Fixed toe strap: set it once and it stays in place.
• Extended ankle strap: creates a wide opening so you can step in without undoing the strap. A smooth section on the strap makes it easy to tighten with just one or two pulls.

How does the FASE binding system work?

When entering the binding, the straps stay in place while the highback is folded back. This gives plenty of space to step in. When stepping in for the first time, adjust the toe strap to your boot.

As you place your foot in, your heel presses the pedal on the heel cup, which closes the highback automatically. Tighten the ankle strap with one hand, just one or two quick pulls on the buckle and you're good to go.

To exit the binding, loosen the ankle strap with one hand and it opens wide, making it easy to step out. The highback pops open automatically as you lift your heel.

Available binding models

The following bindings will feature the fast entry FASE system for the 2025-2026 winter season:

• ThirtyTwo T32 FASE: flexible and ideal for freestyle and park riders.
• Jones Mercury FASE: perfect for all-mountain and freeride.
• Bataleon Blaster FASE: playful feel for all-mountain and freeride riders.
• Rome Katana FASE: great for freeride, carving, and all-mountain shredding.

Volcom is also coming with a FASE version. This is the ThirtyTwo T32 model, featuring Volcom’s signature colors and branding.

Differences between the binding models

Each model has its own unique characteristics. Here's a breakdown of what sets them apart:

ThirtyTwo T32 vs Jones Mercury

Both ThirtyTwo and Jones FASE bindings share the same plastic uni-body construction, meaning the baseplate and heel cup are one piece. Both are adjustable via the mounting disk.

Compared side by side, the ThirtyTwo has more baseplate cushioning and a more flexible highback and ankle strap. It’s the go-to FASE binding for park riders, and due to its forgiving flex, also great for beginners. The Jones binding offers more responsiveness, making it better suited for freestyle and freeride.

Bataleon Blaster vs Rome Katana

Bataleon and Rome FASE bindings share the same baseplate and metal heel cup. Boot centering is done by adjusting the heel cup. Both offer more lateral flexibility due to their smaller mounting disk compared to the ThirtyTwo and Jones.

Between the two, the Rome features the stiffest highback and ankle strap, resulting in maximum response. Its ankle strap is adjustable in 64 positions, while the Bataleon offers 2 settings.

Snowcountry first impressions

This past winter, several snowboarders from Snowcountry team had a chance to test the new FASE system:

"The FASE snowboard binding system is a gamechanger. It blends ease of use, high performance, and innovation in a way the industry hasn’t seen before. Whether you're new to the sport or a pro rider, FASE gives you fast-entry convenience without compromising on control.

We tested all four binding brands and were impressed. It’s not just the technology, the system makes snowboarding quicker, easier, and more comfortable. Being able to step in and out without losing stability is a huge plus."

What the pros say

The FASE system was put to the test this winter by top riders like Jeremy Jones, Pat Fava, Victor de Le Rue, Tor Lundstrom, and Chris Bradshaw.

Jeremy Jones on FASE: “The Mercury FASE™ binding is super intuitive to use, offering a natural board feel and all-day comfort. Getting in and out is second nature after a run or two. It is not until you return to a traditional binding that you realize how convenient and fast FASE-featured bindings are. You just get off the lift, slide your back foot in while still gliding, and charge down the mountain.”

Victor de Le Rue: “FASE, Fast Entry! On the first day of riding, I forgot I was on a new binding. The responsiveness and control is amazing.”

Pat Fava after riding at DIYX STRT JAM: “I immediately noticed the T32M FASE™ bindings had a snug fit and great board feel. I was kind of skeptical but it feels just like a two-strap binding. It’s super fast and easy to get in and out of, rides great and the straps are awesome.”

The story behind FASE

The FASE system has been in the works for over seven years, developed from a concept by David Partridge and JF Pelchat. David explains: “When I began snowboarding, we used bungee cords over our Sorels, then shortly after we moved on to a webbing material with buckles. Forty years later, the approach is still very similar but with more advanced gear. This led me to experiment with a method that improved upon strapping in while maintaining the performance of traditional straps.”

The idea was refined together with FASE engineers, pro riders, and the first brands to release the FASE binding technology: Jones, ThirtyTwo, Bataleon, and Rome.

Looking ahead

FASE seems poised to set a new standard in snowboard binding tech, combining speed, simplicity, and performance. Initial reactions from the snowboarding community and top athletes have been very positive. With four major brands releasing bindings equipped with the FASE system, the future looks bright for FASE snowboard binding technology.

Available in the Snowcountry webshop from September 2025

Excited to try this next-gen fast entry system? Buy your Fase binding at Snowcountry: Rome, Bataleon, Jones or ThirtyTwo. So you can choose the brand that suits you without giving up this revolutionary tech.

FAQ

When will FASE bindings be available?

September 2025

Are FASE bindings compatible with all snowboard boots?

Yes, FASE bindings work with all major snowboard boot brands.

Which brands offer bindings with the FASE system?

Bataleon, Jones, Rome, and ThirtyTwo.

Does the FASE system still work well when bindings are full of snow?

Yes, extensive testing shows the system remains reliable, even when snow builds up.

Can you adjust the highback angle on FASE bindings?

Not at this time, the highback angle is fixed.

Can snowboard pants get caught when stepping in?

Whether you're wearing baggy pants or slim-fit, the system gives enough clearance thanks to the backward-folding highback and wide ankle strap opening.

How strong is the FASE system?

The system is robust and foolproof. The highback even includes a feature that folds forward if the binding gets caught under a lift chair.