Abstract: A locking apparatus for a cord comprises a sleeve member having a first axial end, a second axial end and a tubular surface therebetween. The first axial end is closed by a disc-shaped member having a first diameter. The tubular surface has an outer surface having a second diameter. The second axial end has a flange-shaped rim portion having a third diameter. The first diameter and the third diameter are greater than the second diameter. The disc-shaped member has an outer surface that is knurled. A plug shaped member is slidably received in the sleeve member. The plug-shaped member has a first axial end disposed with the sleeve member and a second axial end being disposed axially outside of sleeve member. The second axial end has a knurled surface.

Abstract: A snowboard binding system is disclosed which uses a pair of cables extending from spaced points on a first forward boot plate to corresponding spaced points on a second rearward boot plate, with each cable passing through independent tensioning means for preventing movement of the boot plates under normal loads occurring as a snowboarder is maneuvering. When an abnormal load is encountered by one boot plate, the retaining force applied by the tensioning means is overcome and both boot plates are conditionally releasable, but not separated from the snowboard. The cable binding system also allows automatic return of the plates to the snowboard where they are held against movement when the abnormal load is reduced to a normal level.