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Alpine Ski Bindings

Binding buying guide: Alpine skis

Bindings are the link between you and your skis. They affect both safety and the feel of your ride, which is why it's important to choose the right model. A good binding should provide stable power transfer, but also release in a fall to reduce the risk of injury.

There are many different types of bindings, and in this guide, we will go through the four most common types so you can more easily understand the differences and find the right binding for you.

For pure piste skiing or all-mountain, classic alpine bindings are best. They provide direct power transfer and high precision. If you want a more versatile setup, there are bindings with a walk mode, which combine good skiing properties with the possibility of shorter uphill tours. For those who primarily do ski touring, tech bindings are the obvious choice. They are extremely light and efficient uphill, but require the right ski boots.

DIN Value

All bindings have an adjustable DIN value that controls when the binding releases. The DIN scale indicates how tightly or loosely the spring in the binding can be tensioned. It is this spring that ensures the bindings release the boots at the right time, for example, if you fall. You set this according to your weight, skill level, sole length, and how aggressively you ski. A value that is too low can cause the binding to release too early, while a value that is too high can increase the risk of injury. If you are unsure, it's a good idea to let a ski workshop help you adjust it correctly.

The scales vary slightly between different bindings, but the systems are quite easy to understand. The number 1 on the scale corresponds to 10 kilograms. If you weigh 70 kilograms, you can buy a binding with a DIN scale between 3–11 (between 30–110 kilograms). How the binding should then be set depends somewhat on the dimensions of the ski boot.

Contact us or visit our store if you feel unsure – we'd be more than happy to help you.

Hybrid bindings

Hybrid bindings, sometimes called freeride or touring hybrids, combine the best of two worlds: walk mode for ski touring and stability for downhill skiing. They work with both tech boots and regular alpine boots, depending on the model.

A hybrid binding has a smooth walk mode that makes it easy to ascend the mountain with climbing skins. When you lock the binding for skiing, you get the same stability and power transfer as with a traditional alpine binding.

Hybrid bindings are a perfect choice for those who want to switch between piste, off-piste, and ski touring without compromising on performance. If you plan on longer touring trips, you might find a hybrid binding too heavy, in which case a touring binding would be a good choice. You need tech inserts at the front of your boots to use the walk mode on the binding.

Touring bindings (tech binding)

Tech bindings, sometimes called pin bindings, are the obvious choice for those who want to ski tour and want the lowest possible weight. They are designed to provide maximum efficiency uphill and sufficient stability for the downhill ride.

Unlike traditional alpine bindings, the boot is attached to two metal pins at the front and a simple heel mechanism at the back. This makes the construction much lighter and provides a more natural walking motion when you go up the mountain.

Advantages of tech bindings
The biggest advantage is the low weight. Less weight with each step saves energy during long tours. The binding also provides a smooth walking mode with great freedom of movement in the ankle. When you lock the binding in ski mode, you get sufficient stability for most snow conditions, even in steep terrain.

Disadvantages to be aware of
Tech bindings do not have quite the same shock absorption and power transmission as traditional alpine bindings. Therefore, they are not primarily built for hard piste skiing or big jumps. The safety release can also vary between different models, so always choose a binding that suits your experience and skiing style.

Compatibility and boots
To use tech bindings, you need boots with tech inserts, i.e., metal fittings in the toe and heel. Make sure the boot is compatible before you buy.

In summary, tech bindings are the right choice for those who prioritize low weight, efficient walking, and reliable function in ski touring terrain. They are perfect for long tours, mountain peaks, and days when the way up is as important as the ride down.

Freeride bindings (without a specified binding system)

Freeride bindings are designed for those who enjoy skiing all over the mountain – both on and off-piste. They combine stability, power transmission, and durability.

Unlike traditional alpine bindings, many freeride models are not tied to a specific binding system. Therefore, you can mount these on any skis that do not already have a pre-installed binding system.

A freeride binding is often a bit heavier and more robust to withstand aggressive skiing, landings, and impacts in challenging terrain. At the same time, they offer good safety release and adjustability for different skiers.

Freeride bindings are suitable for those who want maximum stability and freedom, whether you're tackling big runs in powder or need reliable performance in crud.

On-piste and all-mountain bindings (with a specific binding system)

Alpine and all-mountain bindings (with a specific binding system) are the most classic bindings for piste skiing and mixed skiing. They offer stability, power transmission, and safety. Exactly what you want for a secure and responsive feel on the slopes.

These bindings have a specific binding system and are used with traditional ski boots or boots with GripWalk soles. These bindings are something that manufacturers have developed because they believe that this particular system and bindings work best on that specific ski.

The bindings are designed to provide direct and precise edge grip, whether you are cruising gently on the piste or enjoy a bit more speed. They are robust, reliable, and require minimal maintenance – perfect for those who want a simple and safe choice.

This binding fits most boot sizes and is easy to adjust without any tools as the toe and heel parts are placed on a rail.