I see signs saying leashes are required, but no enforcement or anyone using them.

Still needed?

I think most of those signs date back to the original step in bindings that could release under pressure like ski bindings. That being said according to Burton a small leash should be used with their new step-on bindings. Although the rate of use is hard to tell as the short leashes most likely wouldn’t be visible unless you were looking at boots. 

info.burton.com

I suspect most of the resorts have signs for liability reasons, and rule number 5 of the skier code states that measures are taken to prevent runaway equipment. Modern strap on bindings would likely be a reasonable step to prevent runaway equipment. 

On a side note when I was at snowshoe last time I saw someone walk out of expedition rentals and proceed to drop a snowboard that managed to go across skidder and looked like it got caught by the trees near the top of spruce. If that had gone over the edge or down gandy dancer it could’ve been a serious hazard. It’s likely a leash wouldn’t have been attached if they were just heading out, but you are responsible for your equipment.

No.

I am VERY curious how the new step in boot/bindings actually work.  You know, once your boot and binding is full of muck.

I

Grumpy, I checked out the new step boots/bindings at the Burton Outlet last month.  They seem to be legit.  When I started riding in the 2000s, it was on older rental equip. that was step in.  Two posts out the sides of the boots that clicked into the restraint.  A run or two and you had to clean out where it clicked in.  New Burton system has click in nubs at the front sides of boot, and one above the heel.  Looks like it could be a real time saver.  Not for me, as I like to wrench my straps as tight as possible.

Grumpy dad wrote:

I am VERY curious how the new step in boot/bindings actually work.  You know, once your boot and binding is full of muck.

I