Bindings |
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| Ah, bindings. Will they ever change? No. And you know why? Because they work. It’s that simple. While binding manufacturers may trademark new names for old technology, the reality is that bindings are all subject to the international DIN standards, a regulation that seriously limits how many successful designs can actually work. Deviating from the traditional design of toe-heel-piece is flirting with bankruptcy. So, ask yourself this: Do they hold you in? Do they shed snow easily? Do they release when you eat shit under the lift while a group of snot-nosed schoolchildren laugh their asses off at you? Yes? Then be happy, pick one that’s designed to go with your skis, suits your style and purchase it. Because if you buy into the trademarks, you’ll be here all day. And no one needs that. Go skiing instead. |
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4FRNT Padlock 212 ($269) DIN 3.5-12
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New for ’08, the Padlock delivers heavyweight features in a lightweight package. The heel design resembles that of 4FRNT’s Deadbolt series. The toe design differs with a manual sole adjustment and solid acetyl plastic chassis, rounded out with an oversized AFD. |
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Atomic FFG 14 ($349.99) DIN 6-14
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Not only do the FFG 14s come with proven durability, a movable AFD, adjustable wings and high elasticity, they also come with a sticker pack—meaning your bindings can be totally customized. |
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Dynastar PX 12 Jib ($249.99) DIN 4-12
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With the use of titanium and composites, the engineers at Dynastar have reduced the weight of the PX series by more than 300 grams. Add to this the high level of ski control you get with this binding, 25 mm of elastic travel, and Dynastar’s got a jibber’s dream. |
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Fischer X 17 ($385) DIN 6-17
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Fischer keeps things light and simple with this toe-heel offering. The toe-piece features four rollers and glide plates, while the heel-piece offers a 150-degree release arc to set you free in forward-twisting falls. These bindings come in sand white and black, and feature 93-mm–wide brakes.
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Head Mojo 15 ($400) DIN 5-15
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Head’s park and powder bindings are as light, low-profile and safe as Head can possibly make them. With a DIN rating of up to 15, riders such as Jon Olsson can be sure that when they launch and land, their skis will still be firmly attached. |
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Marker Jester ($460) DIN 6-16
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Designed for the park, pipe and big-mountain freekskier, the Jester is made for a ski with a minimum waist of 76 mm. A wider binding creates a wider contact point for power transfer. The five-degree sole holder angle provides a level standing position for switch skiing. |
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Movement Bonkers 14 ($350) DIN 5-14
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Leading the way in a collection of seven different models, the Bonkers 140 clamp is the flagship model for Movement. With a design exclusive to Movement, the Bonkers offers a highback heel-piece, a 5-14 DIN range, and is touted by Movement to be for “the pure, the core and the pro.” Available in either black or white for those concerned with colour-coordination. |
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Rossignol Axial Free 200 XXL WB ($600) DIN 10-18
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This binding’s forward pressure has been increased by 30 per cent, which influences ski behaviour, improving rebound and responsiveness. With performance geometry, 25 mm of elastic travel in the heel, and a reinforced toe-piece, this is one solid offering from Rossignol. |
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Salomon STH 16 brake 130, 100, 90 mm ($429) DIN 9-16
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Salomon’s new STH 16 is a freestyle binding developed by riders for riders. A reinforced heel, articulated track and metallic toe reinforcement make these bindings not only stronger but also lighter than any binding previously offered. |
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Vist V-412 Speedlock System ($279) DIN 4-12
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Designed for recreational to advanced skiers, the V-412 was developed to reach the highest levels for safety, performance and ease-of-use. The Advanced Pin Technology mounts the binding to the Speedlock plate without screws, but still assures maximum transmission of power from the skier to the skis. |
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