Perhaps we’re just like your crusty ski tuner who’s constantly claiming, “they’re only 3 real bindings on the market.”
Related: What Your Skis Say About You As A Person | Ski Stereotypes [Part 1]
But until Sage and Seth start riding Knee Bindings, we’re gonna go ahead and stick with these 3 mainstays. For one, these bindings have a lot of history. Secondly, they’re used by the best of the best who can’t afford to pre-release on 3k’ AK spine walls.
*Accept no substitutes.
Look – Pivot 18
With 28mm of travel in the heel, The Look 18 Pivot is easily one of the most innovative models on the market. With its ‘Pivot’ technology and mostly metal build, Look’s premier freeride binding is about as trustworthy as they come. That said, they are a little heavy and those who want a little less weight might like Salomon and Marker’s offerings.
“LOOK is the only binding brand to develop a true mechanical upward release that functions independently from the heel for the most effective multi-directional protection in the case of a fall.”
Specs:
- 180 Degree Toe Release
- 5.73 lbs
- Coupling Strength
- Natural Stance
- 28mm of Elastic Travel in the Heel
- Short Mounting Zone
Buy here: Look – Pivot 18
Salomon – STH2 16 WTR
The binding manufacturer to create the first releasable ski binding, it’s no surprise that Salomon continues to be a league leader in binding sales. When it comes to performance freeride bindings, the Salomon STH2 16 WTR is among the best– which is why Scot Schmidt and Seth Morrison trust Salomon to take them where they need to go.
Specs:
- DIN Range: 7 – 16
- Weight: 5 lbs 6.1 oz
- Toe piece: 3D Driver Toe
- Brakes: Freeski
- Chassis: Low profile
Buy here: Salmon – STH2 16 WTR
Marker – Jester 18 Pro
The lightest high performance binding on the market, The Jester Pro is used by pro skiers far and wide. Candide Thovex likes the Jester for its lightweight nature, which allows for quicker mid-air movements than other competing brands. The one complaint has been its abundance of plastic, which has the capacity to fail after 150 days of skiing @Jackson. Trust me, I know from experience…
Specs:
- 8-18 DIN range accommodates expert-level skiers
- Weight – 2.43 lbs
- Compatible with standard alpine boots
- Horizontal torsion box reinforcement enhances power
- Magnesium parts withstand big hits and heavy use
- Fixed AFD increases retention and power transmission
Buy here: Marker – Jester Pro