When it comes to electric skateboarding, one of the most common questions riders ask is: Do you really need foot straps or bindings? The answer depends on your riding style, terrain, and experience level. While not essential for everyone, foot straps can provide significant advantages for certain types of rides, especially off-road or high-speed sessions.
Below, we’ve gathered insights from experienced e-board riders and explored the pros and cons of using foot straps or bindings on your electric skateboard.
What Ecomobl Riders Say
“Yes, start without foot straps and get used to the board. But with the bindings, you can use harder springs or bushings for better stability and put significantly more pressure on the axles. There are a few good solutions on the market. Heel straps are really only intended for lighter boards and for jumping. I’m convinced by the Freebord bindings as they’re diagonally open at the top, so you can’t get caught and can slide out automatically when needed. The only downside is that with a dropdown deck, they’re harder to attach.” — Mark Rockshock
“Just remember, with those foot straps, it’s harder to get off if you need to. These aren’t 10 to 15 lb snowboards. A 40 to 50 lb e-skate can really hurt if you’re strapped in. I ride bindings off-road and have been riding hard for over five years, mainly on mountain biking trails. It depends on the terrain, but I mostly don’t wear foot straps. People new to the sport do not need them. I speak from experience.” — John Reese
Good to know: Anyone who purchases an Ecomobl electric skateboard will receive free foot straps included with their board.
Are Foot Straps or Bindings Necessary?
Foot straps or bindings are not mandatory for riding an electric skateboard, but they can enhance your control, stability, and safety, especially in off-road or performance settings. Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can decide what’s best for your riding style.
Pros of Using Foot Straps or Bindings
1. Enhanced Control
Foot straps help keep your feet securely in place, allowing for better precision when accelerating, braking, or cornering. This extra control becomes even more valuable on rough or uneven terrain.
2. Improved Stability
When using harder bushings or springs, bindings help maintain better board stability. They prevent unwanted foot movement and allow you to transfer more pressure to the axles, improving overall balance.
3. Better Performance on Rough Terrain
For off-road riding, foot straps are a significant innovation. They allow you to pull the board upward during jumps, giving you higher air and smoother landings. You’ll feel more connected to the board, which helps maintain control even on unpredictable surfaces.
4. Reduced Foot Fatigue
On longer rides, maintaining a consistent foot position can reduce strain and fatigue. Straps can help you relax your feet without constantly readjusting your stance.
5. Boosted Confidence
Knowing your feet are locked in gives you more confidence to take on challenging terrain or attempt more advanced tricks and jumps.
Why Foot Straps Are Essential for Off-Road and Jumping
If you love riding off-road or tackling mountain trails, foot straps become almost essential. They provide maximum stability and precision, especially during jumps and landings.
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Secure Foot Placement: Keeps your feet from slipping during bumpy rides or sharp turns.
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Better Maneuverability: Allows precise control over the board’s movement in the air and on the ground.
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Higher Jumps: Helps lift the board using your feet for more controlled airtime.
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Safer Landings: Keeps your feet aligned for smoother, more stable landings on uneven terrain.
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Reduced Risk of Slippage: Prevents accidental foot slips that can cause falls or injuries.
Also Read: Which Electric Skateboard is Right for You? (2025 Edition)
Cons of Using Foot Straps or Bindings
1. Limited Mobility
Foot straps restrict quick dismounting or foot adjustments, which are often needed during emergencies or while cruising in crowded areas.
2. Added Risk for Beginners
Beginners should start without foot straps to develop balance and board awareness. Using them too early can feel awkward and limit your ability to learn basic control techniques.
3. Inconvenience
Adjusting or removing foot straps can take extra time, which might not be ideal for short, casual rides or commuting.
4. Potential for Injury
While they improve control, bindings can also make it harder to bail safely in a crash. This can increase the risk of ankle or knee injuries if you fall while strapped in.
Expert Tip from Ecomobl Riders
If you’re new to electric skateboarding, start without bindings until you’re comfortable handling your board. Once you’ve built your confidence and balance, try adding foot straps, especially if you plan to ride off-road or perform jumps.
For experienced riders, bindings can elevate your control and performance, making them ideal for Ecomobl’s mountain and all-terrain boards.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the decision to use foot straps or bindings depends on how and where you ride.
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For beginners and casual riders: Start without them to learn balance and board handling.
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For off-road and advanced riders: Foot straps can greatly enhance your control, safety, and performance.
No matter your choice, always prioritize safety gear like helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards. And if you’re riding an Ecomobl electric skateboard, you’ll already have a set of free foot straps ready to help you push your limits with confidence.
