How to Mount Snowboard Bindings to Burton's 'The Channel' System (Step-by-Step Guide)

In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through how to mount bindings to a snowboard with The Channel, covering both Burton EST bindings and Re:Flex or other disc-style bindings from any brand. Whether you’re setting up a new board or dialing in your stance before a trip, this guide breaks it all down so you can get your bindings mounted right and your board ready to ride.

What Is the Channel System?

If you’re riding a Burton snowboard with The Channel system, you’ve got one of the cleanest, most adjustable mounting setups in snowboarding.

Unlike traditional 4x4 inserts, The Channel uses two long aluminum tracks embedded in the board. These allow you to slide your bindings forward, backward, and side-to-side for near-infinite stance adjustment.

Instead of fixed hole patterns, you mount your bindings using sliding T-nuts and bolts, giving you full control over stance width, angle, and boot centering — all with a flush, modern look.

Why The Channel System Works So Well

• Unlimited stance adjustment – fine-tune width and centering down to the millimeter.

• Stronger connection – hardware tightens directly into metal inserts.

• Cleaner setup – fewer holes, less weight, and a smoother board flex pattern.

And when paired with Burton’s EST bindings, you unlock the full potential of how the board was meant to ride.

How to Mount Burton EST Bindings to The Channel

If you’ve got a Burton board and Burton EST bindings, this is the setup Burton designed to work together. EST eliminates the baseplate underfoot for maximum board feel and flex.

What You’ll Need

• #3 Phillips screwdriver (not a #2 — this matters)

• Your board with The Channel

• Burton EST bindings with included mounting hardware

• Your stance reference (width + binding angles)

Step-by-Step: Mounting EST Bindings

1. Locate the T-nuts
   Pop the rubber stoppers out of The Channel and insert the sliding metal T-nuts. Push or slide them roughly into position where your bindings will mount.

2. Set your stance width
   Use the printed stance reference marks on the board. Shoulder-width or slightly wider is a good starting point.

3. Dial in your binding angles
   Common setups: +15° front and -9° back, or symmetrical if you ride switch. Use the window in the footbed of the binding to see and set your desired angles. Adjust to preference.

4. Attach the bindings
   Drop the screws through the EST slots and into The Channel’s T-nuts. Make sure the curved washers seat neatly in the track.

5. Center your boots
   Before tightening, slide the binding slightly forward or back to center your boot evenly between toe and heel edges. You will also have a window in the footbed of the binding to assist with this alignment.

6. Tighten evenly
   Alternate between screws and snug them down evenly — firm, but not overly tight.

7. Final check
   Step in, flex the board, and make sure everything feels solid and balanced.

Benefits of the EST + Channel Pairing

• Unmatched board feel — no baseplate underfoot.

• Full flex underfoot — natural, consistent board response.

• Quick adjustability — easy to change stance width or angles without re-mounting.

How to Mount Re:Flex Bindings or Other Disc Bindings to The Channel

If you’re running Burton Re:Flex bindings or another brand that uses a traditional disc, The Channel still works great — you’ll just use the Channel-compatible disc that comes with your bindings.

What You’ll Need

• #3 Phillips screwdriver

• Channel discs and hardware (included with your bindings)

• Your board and stance preferences

Step-by-Step: Mounting Re:Flex or Disc Bindings

1. Install T-nuts in The Channel
   If they’re not already in place, slide the T-nuts into the track from the ends — threaded side up.

2. Choose stance width and angles
   Reference the markings on your board. You’ll set both with the disc’s teeth as you align it. Use your screwdriver to pop up the tabs found on your binding footbed to access the baseplate where you will set your disc.

3. Align your discs
   Drop the disc into the baseplate and rotate it to your desired angles. Line up the holes with The Channel underneath.

4. Insert screws
   Thread the screws through the disc into the T-nuts — keep them slightly loose for now.

5. Center your boots
   Make sure the toe and heel of your boots have roughly the same amount of overhang. Minor adjustments can be made to either the holes used on the disc or in some cases to the heel cup of your bindings until your boots are centered between toe and heel edges.

6. Tighten securely
   Alternate tightening the screws evenly. The disc should sit flush with the baseplate when fully secure.

Benefits of Re:Flex and Other Discs on The Channel

• Universal compatibility — disc mounted bindings fit nearly any board brand.

• Tons of stance adjustability — similar to EST.

• Versatility — easily swap bindings between multiple boards.

Pro Tips for Mounting Bindings to The Channel

• Use a #3 Phillips screwdriver. Burton hardware is slightly larger than standard.

• Recheck screws after the first day. Flexing can settle the hardware.

• Don’t overtighten. The Channel hardware seats firmly — snug is enough.

• Add a drop of blue Loctite. It prevents screws from backing out over time, especially for frequent travelers.

Which Setup Should You Choose?

If you’re all-in on Burton, EST is unbeatable. But if you want more cross-compatibility between different boards, Re:Flex or disc mounted bindings give you nearly all the same benefits — just with a bit more material underfoot.

Shop: Burton Snowboard Bindings

Shop: Burton Snowboards

Final Thoughts

The Channel system gives riders the most customizable stance in snowboarding — and it’s built for easy adjustments, whether you’re fine-tuning your angles mid-season or switching setups for different terrain.

• EST bindings: best for pure board feel and smooth flex.

• Re:Flex or Channel discs: best for versatility across boards.

Either way, you’ll have a rock-solid setup that feels dialed in and rides exactly how you want.

🎥 Watch the Full Mounting Tutorial
For a full walkthrough, visual stance setup tips, and a few pro tricks from our techs, check out our YouTube video: