On Snow Review: Union Atlas Step On Bindings - Stepping Into the Future
Miquel
Author
Miquel
Author
Step-in systems have come a long way. What started as a convenience feature has evolved into serious performance gear. After multiple test sessions in both Hintertux Glacier and Hochfügen this season, we came away impressed with the Union Atlas Step On. We also had our references set by riding the Burton Step On system long enough to know what works and what doesn’t.
Why Step-On?
The appeal is obvious. Click in fast, click out easily, spend less time fiddling with straps, more time riding. Both systems deliver this basic promise, but the details matter, especially if you’re pushing harder lines, riding all-mountain terrain, or simply want gear that stays out of your way.
Build & Feel: Union vs Burton
From the first couple meters on snow, the Atlas felt solid. The feel underfoot is immediate, tight, and hooked in. Compared to our previous Step On experience with Burton’s Step On platform, the Union Atlas had a slight edge in overall build quality and step-in ease. Internal chatter was reduced, landings felt a touch smoother, and the “locked-in” feeling was slightly more refined.
In our runs at Hintertux and Hochfügen we tested carve-heavy groomers, some steep slopes, and a few bumpy patches for good measure. The Atlas held its own across all of it.
The Atlas feels dialed in, stable, and ready for serious riding. The heel-clip, toe-tabs, baseplate all felt premium. The shock absorption and damping were noticeably better than what we’d expected. That said we must note: Burton’s Step On system holds its own as well, and at a slightly lower price point. The difference is small but real.
Price & Value
Here’s the trade-off: Union Atlas Step On commands a premium. If you’re comparing by euro/dollar value, Burton gives you a lot of performance for the money. But if your riding style is more committed, you care about subtle gains, or you ride variable conditions (like bump, chop, or harder snow) the extra investment in the Atlas is justifiable.
Boot Compatibility & Why It Matters
One of the biggest caveats with any Step On system: your boots matter. With no ankle strap (as in traditional bindings) the boot-to-binding interface becomes critical. We used the Burton Highshot X Step On boots during testing and found they allowed the Atlas to shine. If your boot is sloppy, too soft, or doesn’t have the correct Step On tabs, you won’t get the full benefit of the system.
If you want “max performance”, go for the Burton Highshot X Pro Triple BOA version, it locks in tight, minimizes flex where you don’t want it, and completes the Step On system at a high level. We found that when the boot + binding combo is dialled, the “step-in” experience transitions into “just ride”. Small note; Performance in boots isnt the utmost important thing, its ok to compromise a little performance for some comfort for most people.
Real-World Riding Thoughts of the Union Atlas Step on Snowboard Bindings
• Entry/Exit: Excellent. The step-in was smooth, heel clip engaged nicely, toe tabs snapped in effortlessly. Out-of-bound lifts and quick laps felt easier.
• Turn Initiation: Solid. On carve runs I felt a sharper connection than our older Step On setup. The board responded quicker from edge to edge.
• Terrain Versatility: Across groomers and softer snow the Atlas felt composed. On the steeper, wetter sections of Hochfügen I noticed a fraction more control compared to our older setup.
• Limits: If you ride deep powder, tight trees or ultra-soft wet snow, you’ll quickly realise the boot-binding combo and your setup still matter more than the binding alone. The best binding can’t compensate for a sub-par fit or boot. Also, the premium price means you’ll want to commit to the setup rather than treat it as a strap-in replacement for casual use.
The Bottom Line
If you’re step-in curious and you value performance, the Union Atlas Step On is a smart choice. It out-performs the Burton system in our on-snow tests by a small but meaningful margin, build quality, feel, response. If your budget is tighter, or you ride less aggressively, the Burton Step On still delivers strong value. But if you match it with a top-tier boot like the Highshot X Pro, and you ride often, the Atlas Step On may quickly become your go-to.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any boot with the Atlas Step On?
A: No. You need Step On-compatible boots (with correct tabs) and a boot that fits snugly. Since there’s no ankle strap, boot fit and stiffness become critical for performance.
Q: How different is the feel between the Atlas and Burton Step On systems?
A: In our testing we found the Atlas offered slightly better shock-absorption, more refined feel underfoot, more refined "locking in" and slightly quicker turn initiation. The difference is not massive, but for attentive riders it’s noticeable.
Q: Is the price difference worth it?
A: If you’re a frequent rider, pushing hard terrain, and want the best system you can get, yes. For casual riders or strap-in converts, the Burton system may provide most of the benefit at lower cost.
Q: What boot do you recommend?
A: We used the Burton Highshot X Step On boots and found they unlocked the potential of the Atlas Step On. For “max performance” the Triple BOA Pro version is our pick.
Q: Will step-in systems make traditional strap bindings obsolete?
A: Not yet. Strap-ins still offer more adjustability, compatibility with more boots, and a broader ecosystem. Step-On systems are excellent for convenience and response, but you’ll still want strap-ins for some setups and riders.