Most people would know for their quick, rear entry bindings. Whomever you ask, there seems to be a love/hate relationship with their bindings. Some people swear by them, while others would never even consider trying them.
The main advantage for Flow, and other brands that make quick entry bindings, is the time saving. Compared to regular style bindings, there is one less step to get into Flows.
Rather than doing up the ankle strap, then the toe cap/strap on, on quick entry you just need to kick your foot in the binding, then flip up the highback and lock it in with the lever.
Now, there are the Flow Fusion bindings, that are made to be a combination between regular 2 strap bindings and quick entry.
From the description on the Flow website:
The HYBRID PowerCapStrap is a revolutionary hybrid between Flow’s SpeedEntry convenience and conventional 2-strap SideEntry, merging the best of both in this dual configuration. The toe cap fits snug onto the toe of your boot, and delivers perfect fit every time.
On the Flow NX2 GT, NX2, Fuse GT, Fuse, Five GT, Five and Minx, there are both the normal Flow style quick entry, as well as the Hybrid versions.
What this means is that you can use the Hybrid bindings in both ways. Quick entry by folding the highback down, or the normal way with the two straps and ratchets.
It seems a little strange to me that they offer this, I have to wonder why you would need both options in getting in to your bindings if quick entry is so good – but I guess that seeing how they offer it in so many models, it is a good way to convince someone who is hesitant on buying dedicated quick entry bindings to at least try their style.
Have a look here at some Hybrid bindings
If you already know the model you are looking for, you can search for it here and find out if any retailers have it on sale.
Having both entry methods is awesome. Using the rear entry in deep pow can be tricky to get the high back to fold right down (especially in really soft pow). Having the alternate, classic binding entry system makes backcountry riding in deep snow far easier. The rear entry is awesome when getting off the lift, particularly in late season where sitting down to put on bindings or dial in a different stands can give you a wet arse. With these bindings strapping in while standing means more runs, better comfort, and a dryer butt.