2012-2013 Voile Light Rail Splitboard Binding

Adjustability

The Light Rail is a very simple binding. Other than the 7075-T6 bar stock aluminum base (a feature that increases stiffness and provides an extremely solid and stable base for the rest of the binding) and the rigid highback, there are few frills. This, in turn, comes at the expense of adjustability and customization.

While many bindings feature adjustable length toe ramps and highbacks that have the ability to be turned inward or canted to more properly match the angle of the boot, the Light Rail does not. For myself, this was a nonissue, as they still proved extremely functional, and I am not as particular about my bindings as others. But for those who are meticulous with their binding fit, this could be an issue.

Voile Light Rail Splitboard Binding, Blister Gear Review
Zeppelin Zeerip with the Voile Light Rail Binding, Thompson Pass, Alaska

Response / Ride

An increase in board feel was the most noticeable thing when comparing regular (or non-split-specific) bindings to my Voile Light Rails. Rather than feeling as if I was elevated off the board, it felt as if I was connected directly to the board, as I would be on normal bindings with a normal deck.

The rigid base plate and highback made laying into carves easy, and, with my straps cranked down, transferring between edges was quick and immediate without delay.

Bottom Line

The Voile Light Rail bindings are one of the least expensive splitboard-specific bindings on the market (e.g. Spark R&D Blaze: $300; Karakoram SL30: $600; Light Rail: $250), yet remains a high quality binding. A stiff highback combined with a sturdy baseplate make the Light Rail ideal for big-mountain riding, and the padded straps remain comfortable throughout an entire day of touring and riding. Big-mountain freestyle riders looking for a simple-to-use, bombproof binding that won’t disappoint will be well off strapped into the Light Rail.

Overall, the Light Rail is a solid binding, and I often found myself riding my Travis Rice Split and Light Rail bindings even if the day didn’t call for touring. They were that good.

 

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