Sick day in Hatteras

Went out at noon today on the sound with my 12m Airush Flow, winds mid teens picking up to mid 20's by 5. I rode about 4 hours total, finally getting out on my 144 Mission with wake bindings. I have to say, I might never use straps again,I have never felt more in control of the board. The landings on loaded jumps were so much softer, which was exactly what I needed with my knee in its current state. I tried a few load and pops with my comp straps earlier in the week and almost every time it ended with me bailing right after the landing due to the pain in my knee. Not today, the landings were so comfy and super easy to recover from if you land a bit too much off the wind. A lot of people steer clear of bindings because of the inability to just kick them off in case of emergency, which is smart. If you are a beginner, sure don't touch them until you feel comfortable, but if you are intermediate and looking for a bit more of a solid hold and responsive feel, pick a pair up, you won't regret it. I'm heading back home tomorrow so hopefully I'll get to ride with you guys this coming week. I haven't checked the forecast, but hopefully this past week's wind continues.