2023 Bent Metal Stylist Bindings Review
By: Mackensie Baer, Planner | November 16, 2022
The Lowdown
If you’re an all-mountain ripper looking for a high-performance binding, the Bent Metal Stylist is exactly what you need. The immaculate attention to technical detail is evident once you strap in and put the Stylist to test. The Stylist features lightweight components while still maintaining top-notch durability and comfortability – a combination that is difficult to nail in an all-mountain binding. These bindings are rated a six on the flex scale meaning they are soft enough to rip through the park but also stiff enough to charge groomers. With that said, these bindings are best for an intermediate rider that does not sacrifice any feature over the other.
Shop the Bent Metal Stylist Bindings
Technical Details
State-of-the-art technology is the driving force for Bent Metal. Starting with the base, the Stylist features Bent Metal’s notorious Flex Control Drive Plates which essentially are small snowboards under your feet. These plates have fiberglass panels in the footbed that closely mimic the flex patterns of your snowboard resulting in incredible responsiveness and control. Even further, the plate’s construction of magnesium fiber, UHMW core and eco-sublimated top sheet material offer a medium flex – the optimal flex pattern to ride in various conditions. Adding to the seamless ride of the Stylist, the unibody chassis uses vibration absorbing polymer. Additionally, the unibody chassis is size adjustable ensuring that your snowboard boots are centered, and ultimate control is achieved.
Continuing with the highback, the Stylist has a nylon polymer asymmetric highback which is slightly shorter and cupped at the top, catering to a woman’s physiology. Adding to the Stylist’s all-mountain abilities, the nylon polymer material aids in the medium flex of the binding. Moving onto The Cube... The Cube on the highback allows you to choose from four different angles to adjust your forward lean – not to mention, the adjustments are insanely fast and easy to make. Well done, Bent Metal. Moving onto the straps. The stylist features a dual band ankle strap which offers a softer flex and extra comfort to rip around the whole mountain. The grip form toe strap molds to any boot with maximum grip. Lastly, the aluminum buckles are lightweight and are hardened for maximum strength.
| Ability Level | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Flex Rating | 6.5 (1 Soft - 10 Stiff) |
| Binding Style | Strap |
| Mount Pattern Compatibility | 2x4, 4x4, Channel |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Ride Impressions
I usually do not stray from my most trusted brands when it comes to bindings, so branching out and trying Bent Metal bindings had me a little skeptical. I’ve had the opportunity to put the Stylist bindings to test on numerous occasions in various conditions and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by their performance.
In terms of the construction and attention to detail, the Stylist exceeded my expectations. As someone who strongly dislikes traditional plush strap padding, it is always exciting when brands nail construction without it. The straps offered optimal flex and comfortability as well as maximum grip. I’ve found that the ladder/ratchet system can sometimes become a sticking point with more use as the season goes on, but I’ve had zero issues or complaints – seamless entry and release. As expected, the Cube was extremely easy to use and the medium flex from the highback and baseplates created the ultimate set-up for all mountain riding. However, I would recommend opting for a stiffer binding on the deeper, powdery days.
One issue that I did experience with the Stylist was with the screws that attach the ankle strap to the chassis. They would occasionally come a little loose, so I made it a habit to always double check and tighten the screws at the beginning of the day.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
Pros
- Responsiveness - Thanks to the Flex Control Drive Plates
- Comfortable - The dual band ankle straps offer extra comfort
- Seamless ladder/ratchet system
Cons
- A little soft - I'd opt for a stiffer binding for freeride/powder riding
- Occasional loose ankle strap screws
Who Is It For?
The Bent Metal Stylist Bindings are best suited for an intermediate rider looking for an incredibly responsive and comfortable all-mountain binding. From the park to the groomers, they want a reliable snowboard binding that can handle variable conditions with ease.
The Bottom Line
If you’re a rider who appreciates top-notch technical detail, Bent Metal’s Stylist binding is for you. From the Flex Control Drive Plates to the Cube, the Stylist is meant for someone who does not want to sacrifice any feature over another. The medium flex allows you to shred the whole mountain with total control while maintaining ultimate comfortability – what more could you ask for?
About the Reviewer
Name: Mackensie Baer
Age: 29
Height: 5’2”
Weight: 125 lbs
Size Reviewed: 146 cm
Location(s) & Conditions: Washington, Oregon, Utah - everything from heavy, wet PNW snow to the extra-light fluff of Utah.
Boots: Ride Cadence (Size 7.5)
Riding Style: Fast and agile — I'm a major pow seeker but also love charging groomers, side hits, berm tracks and weaving through trees any chance I get.