HIGHback

Highback, in general use, refers to a component with a tall backrest or support designed to provide upper back or head support. The term is most commonly encountered in two contexts: snowboarding bindings and high-back seating found in furniture and automotive seats.

In snowboarding bindings, the highback is the upright piece mounted to the heel area of the binding. It supports the rider’s calf and helps control the heel edge during turns. Materials range from plastic and composite laminates to aluminum or carbon fiber in premium models. Features often include adjustable forward lean, which alters how aggressively the binding tips toward the toe, and sometimes canting, which tilts the highback relative to the binding base to align with the rider’s ankle angle. A stiffer highback generally offers more precise edge control and response, while a softer highback can increase flexibility and ease of movement. Some riders remove or loosen the highback for park or jib-focused riding.

In seating, high-back describes chairs and car seats with a tall backrest that extends up toward the head. High-back office chairs typically provide headrest support, enhanced neck and upper back comfort, and adjustable features such as height, tilt, and lumbar support. High-back automotive seats offer extended back support and integrated headrests, contributing to passenger safety and comfort by better supporting the torso and reducing whiplash risk in certain collisions. Materials vary from fabric and mesh to leather and foam padding.

See also: snowboard bindings, ergonomic seating, automotive seats.