PartnerNews | Presentation Marker Alpinist binding

The binding was presented exclusively at Monte Bianco in an impressive atmosphere and the developers faced the international trade press, including PowderGuide.

The development of the binding, which consists of 80 parts, was correspondingly complex due to the objective of low weight and uncompromising functionality. New manufacturing processes, for example for the front jaw base plate or the new design of the pin mounts made of forged aluminum (similar to the Kingpin) mean high tooling costs. The development of functionalities such as the integration of the ski stoppers, the three climbing aids or the solid closure of the toe piece, which leads to a noticeably high closing force, repeatedly presented the developers with exciting challenges.

Ski stoppers are available in three sizes. The widest will probably initially be available up to 115mm. To fit the 90g ski stoppers (catch line 21.5g), the back jaw must be removed and screwed back in, which an experienced developer can do in around 2 minutes. The deactivation of the stoppers for the ascent is independent of the adjustment of the tower. The stopper is switched to downhill mode by a bracket behind the tower, which can be pushed forward with the shoe or glove. By pulling a small tab on the bracket, the stoppers are deactivated again for the ascent.

The binding will be available in different versions. With a Z-value range of 4-9 in blue and 6-12 in red. Both versions are also available in silver-grey. The longtravel versions of both Z-values intended for rental are always silver-grey and have a minimum length adjustment range of 30mm.

In view of the facts and figures, the developers have succeeded in creating a promising product with this binding. Thanks to the competitive price, the new Alpinist will probably be seen frequently on ski tours from next season and PowderGuide is excited to see how the binding performs in the long-term gear review. The first tours on the Grand St. Bernard Pass and on the Tour Ronde under the Monte Bianco left a promising first impression of a versatile binding.