2013-2014 Burton Genesis Re:Flex Binding

In my review of the Burton Cartel, I noted that in my experience, Burton’s Re:Flex baseplate technology doesn’t seem to yield better board flex than a binding without it, and the Genesis hasn’t changed my mind in this respect. But where the Re:Flex system does seem advantageous is in cutting weight from the binding, replacing much of the plastic baseplate with light EVA foam. The Genesis is definitely a lightweight binding thanks to the Re:Flex design and other aspects of its construction, and it’s great for pairing with a light board like the Antler for playing around Taos and Snowbird.

I also mounted the Genesis on Voile slider plates on the K2 Panoramic Splitboard for a multi-day tour in the Indian Peaks near Boulder, Colorado. Though I would have rather been using a dedicated splitboard binding like the Spark R&D Magneto, I liked the Genesis as a split binding; I appreciated its comfortable straps and relatively low weight  in touring mode.

Jed Doane Reviews the Burton Genesis Binding, Blister Gear Review
Jed Doane in the Burton Genesis, Indian Peaks Wilderness.

But the K2 Panoramic is a heavier, longer, and more cumbersome board than the Antler, and on the ride down, the Genesis wasn’t substantial enough to let me control the board with as much precision as I would have liked. The combination of the less initially responsive (albeit comfortable) feel of the Genesis bindings and the heavy splitboard made turning in tight trees especially tough. On a softer, lighter, more manageable powder board, I imagine the Genesis would be perfect.

Bottom Line

The Genesis proved to be a very comfortable binding, just as Burton intended it to be, but this added comfort does affect the binding’s initial responsiveness somewhat. For this reason, I can’t recommend it to someone competing on the Freeride World Tour, looking to send big lines in demanding conditions, or someone who needs to control a heavy, stiff board with real precision.

However, the Genesis ought to be great for pretty much everyone else. While the Genesis’ uniquely designed hi-back reduces the responsiveness of the binding initially, it makes the binding seriously comfortable, and it still provides a good amount stability and power once the board is on edge. I’d recommend it to anyone who is looking for a very comfortable, lightweight binding, especially if they plan to pair it with a lighter all-mountain board.

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