Brand Profile: CLEW launches new model the Independence

CLEW began in 2017 when two engineering students, Johannes and Jakob, set out to create a practical step-in snowboard binding that worked with regular soft boots. After developing and testing several prototypes, they built their own company to bring the design to market and this year wil launch an updated model The Independence.  Jakob Schneider brings us upto date.

What inspired the original launch of CLEW?
In 2017, while snowboarding, engineering students Johannes and Jakob came up with an idea: a step-in snowboard binding for soft boots. At the time, only two systems existed besides ratchet bindings, both requiring special boots. Other rear-entry bindings didn’t ride as well and you still needed your hands to use the step function, which was neither intuitive nor fast. As part of a university project, they conducted a survey of over 100 active snowboarders, which confirmed strong demand for a new solution. The two engineers then developed several concepts, and the one that would later become CLEW quickly proved to be the most promising – combining top riding performance with the easiest entry and exit on the market. After filing a patent, Johannes and Jakob approached major manufacturers but soon realized their new “Made in Germany” approach didn’t fit existing production or distribution models. So they built their own team, registered the brand, and founded CLEW.

Why did you launch an updated model and how does CLEW work with customers or riders to improve their product?
We’ve always had a strong inner drive to push new developments and get the very most out of our sport. We’re constantly exploring new technologies and opportunities that help us reach our goals. When someone from our team or community comes to us with a great idea and we see a chance to bring it to life, we jump right in. That’s exactly how our new Independence binding was born. It’s the result of ongoing collaboration with our customers and partners, and marks a major technological leap forward. Every single component has been fine-tuned for maximum performance and functionality.

Please tell us about your new Independence model
CLEW Independence builds on the success of our Freedom binding and will take its place, starting with the 25/26 season. We’ve focused on pushing performance (lighter weight, greater strength) and on adding new features our riders have been asking for.

How does this new version of the CLEW binding compare to the last models?
The CLEW Independence is much lighter than our previous models, and it offers slightly more flex without feeling soft. The flex rating is now 7-8 instead of 8-9 out of 10. The base features integrated canting and a new three-stage hook system for a smoother step-in experience. The revised geometry optimizes the load path from the heelcup to the mounting area, increasing strength by 15%. The highback’s locking mechanism, sintered metal hooks, stainless steel handle, and Bowden cable, has been refined for smoother operation. Reworked ratchet straps geometry and buckles offer easier release, while both ankle and toe straps now feature tool-free adjustment.

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What are CLEW’S advantages compared to other step in systems?
The CLEW binding is a true hybrid. You get the full comfort, board feel, and performance of a high-quality ratchet binding, combined with an exceptionally fast and intuitive entry and exit mechanism. And you can use it with any regular soft boot. Once you’ve set your straps, you’re done for the day. There’s no need to ever touch the ratchets again. Our customers consistently tell us that CLEW delivers power transfer and response on par with, and in some cases superior to traditional, more heavily damped ratchet bindings, whether carving, riding groomers, or in powder. Of course, no single system can be perfect for every rider. But we want to offer a binding that meets the expectations of the vast majority of snowboarders who want comfort, design, and ease of use without sacrificing performance.

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What type of retailers is CLEW most popular with?
We deeply appreciate our community and people who interact with us directly, but we know for a fact that nothing replaces the knowledge and community that local snowboard shops create. A website can never replace the guidance, care, and expertise that shops provide. Supporting independent retailers is core to who we are. We work with nearly 170 specialty stores worldwide, and we’re proud that our network is made up mostly of independents rather than big chains. Every shop matters, is treated equally fair and gets the same pricing, the same respect and support, whether they order a single pair of bindings or a full season’s worth. We also stay out of discount battles, avoid anonymous online wholesalers, and don’t participate in events like Black Friday. Price wars might drive clicks, but they squeeze small shops and undermine the long-term relationships that keep our culture alive. Shops deserve support, not competition from price wars that value clicks over people.

www.clew-snowboarding.com