The new Tecton
We have already taken a closer look at the Tecton, which has been on the market for several years now, in a short-term review as well as a long-term review. Fritschi has comprehensively revised the binding for this season. While the basic function remains the same, the revision is so comprehensive that other manufacturers would probably call it a new binding model and not "just" a facelift. The focus of the revision was on increasing stability and durability as well as ease of use. There were also minor and major changes, the former of which include the small metal inserts on the front and rear jaws, which prevent the plastic parts from being worn down by the ski pole tips. The levers for adjusting the binding between ski and walk mode have also been improved on both the toe piece and the heel piece. Not only are they now easier to operate, they are also more solid and therefore more stable.
There is now also more space in the toe piece for most ski touring boots, as the crotch length was somewhat restricted in the past. Fritschi provides comprehensive information online regarding compatibility with different boots. The inner workings of the binding have also been revised, again with a focus on durability and ease of use. The binding is now easier to handle and requires little effort, whether getting in and out or adjusting it.
All in all, the new Tecton is a significantly improved version of the already very good original, but retains the important features. It offers the usual performance: thanks to the defined release in the front jaw with high elasticity and the rear jaw, which grips both the edge of the ski watch and the inserts, the binding not only impresses with its secure fit, but also provides a skiing experience that comes very close to that of an alpine binding. In addition, the well-known, very reliable release is guaranteed in the event of a fall. The easy handling also enables quick and error-free conversion or getting into the binding. Ultimately, the Tecton is probably the lightest binding that offers this level of safety.
Testers and test conditions
I am 183 cm tall and weigh just under 80 kg. I ski a lot, mostly on ski tours, whereby I place a lot of emphasis on the descent and less on reaching summits. That's why I'm usually travelling with decent orientated skis and sturdy boots. I mounted the Tecton on a Blizzard Rustler 11, which is a genuine freeride ski and not a lightweight freetourer. During the test, I mainly used the Dynafit Tigard, but also the Scarpa Quattro. I have already tested numerous bindings and have known the Tecton for a long time. I received the test binding last spring, but was able to test it quite extensively in various conditions, for example at the final meeting in Engelberg.
