The Manufacturing Program (MF Program) is a program for making custom bindings to suit each individual's style of riding.
In recent years, snowboarding categories and purposes have become more and more specialized, with an increasing number of core users riding specialized snowboards for different purposes, such as swallowtail boards for powder or hammerhead boards for carving.
On the other hand, bindings are not as specifically categorized as boards, and most people probably choose them based on their preference in terms of hardness, fit, etc.
However, when it comes to specializing in one style of skiing, are the current number of binding models really sufficient to meet this demand?
Also, while there are boards that are designed to prevent slipping when using switches, is it okay for bindings to have the same shape and characteristics on both sides?
If we could make bindings that were more precisely tailored to each individual's skating characteristics and preferences, I think skiing would improve even more.
This program, FLUX, was started from such interests and questions.
We are currently in the testing phase, and are moving forward towards the final version through repeated trial and error.
The two models announced as part of the MF PROGRAM for the 2024-25 season focus on materials, as we want you to know that the ride quality changes not only depending on the shape but also on the materials used .
FLUX mainly uses nylon for the base plate and high back.
Although nylon is a lightweight and durable material, it is not quite sufficient on its own as a binding material that can efficiently transfer power to a snowboard.
Therefore, in order to create bindings that are responsive even at high speeds, we mix fiberglass with nylon to increase rigidity . The rigidity changes depending on the mixture ratio, resulting in a more responsive model.
However, although this material, glass fiber, is excellent at increasing rigidity, it has a higher specific gravity than nylon, so the more you add to it in an attempt to make it harder, the heavier and more brittle it becomes , which is a disadvantage.
That's where carbon fiber comes in.
Flux produces its own carbon fiber grade in Japan that is as stiff as a nylon/fiberglass blend, but with improved impact resistance, and is 24% lighter than its glass-fiber blend counterpart .
This carbon fiber-mixed nylon is used for the base plate and disc plate of both MF PROGRAM models.
The bindings are lightweight and easy to handle, while still maintaining the strength to efficiently transfer power to the snowboard when carving and jumping at high speeds. They also reduce the load on your board when riding the lift or hiking up in the backcountry.
Furthermore, both models use titanium for the mounting screws instead of the usual stainless steel . This is also a high-strength, lightweight material, and although it is a small part, we have tried to make it as light as possible.
In this way, the special edition CV-LTD MF-03 and SR MF-04, which focus on materials, are models that are more responsive than the regular CV and SR. Please try out the sharp ride that can only be experienced with carbon fiber.
CV-LTD MF-03
Size: S, M, L
Price: 70,400 yen (tax included)
[CROSS][PIPE][CARVING][BANKED]
Once you've mastered it, you'll see a new world.
The third installment of the FLUX Manufacturing Program, which aims to produce custom bindings tailored to each individual's style of riding.
Based on the CV, this special model uses a carbon blend that combines lightness and response for the base plate and rotary disc, and lightweight titanium screws for the mounting screws.
In addition, the Boost FootOn is 4mm higher than a standard footbed, allowing for quicker turns and more stable edging.
We have achieved greater rigidity and lighter weight, resulting in even better response.
Will you find this response difficult to implement and give up, or will you update yourself so that you can handle it?
Depending on which you choose, the world you see ahead will change dramatically.
SR MF-04
Size: S, M, L
Price: 63,800 yen (tax included)
[FREE DRIVE] [POWDER]
Delicate yet bold.
This is the fourth installment of the FLUX Manufacturing Program, which aims to produce custom bindings tailored to each individual's style of riding.
This binding was made with the rider Rei Igarashi's input in mind, aiming to create a binding that is lightweight for hiking up in the backcountry, can handle sudden changes in snow quality and steep slopes, and still allows for comfortable turns.
The base model is the SR. In order to pursue lightness and response, we have adopted a carbon blend base plate, carbon discs, and titanium screws.
In addition, we have adopted a thinner FootOn than the regular SR, allowing you to feel the condition of the snow surface better with the soles of your feet.
Thanks to the unique response and direct feel of the carbon blend, this binding is ideal for those looking for steeper slopes and sharper carving than the regular SR.
This program is still in its infancy, but in the near future we hope to be able to provide custom-made bindings tailored to each snowboarder's riding style.
Please look forward to it.
