A few years ago, the German binding manufacturer Marker introduced a new ski binding category with the Marker Duke. A fully-fledged alpine binding with real ascent properties met the needs of the times. It fulfilled the desire of many freeriders to be able to move up slopes under their own steam.
Pros and cons
The downhill properties are nothing but praiseworthy. Good power transmission values, high Z-value up to 16 and good release values. Only the stand height would be a point of criticism here. As a downhill-oriented freerider, there is virtually no difference to a conventional alpine binding.
If you can do without all the high digits for the maximum release value (6 to 16 on the Duke), you can go for the Marker Baron 13. Apart from the lower spring stiffness (4-13), it is technically identical to the Marker Duke and your wallet will be around 50 eurotaler lighter.
The ascent characteristics should be viewed in a more differentiated way. If you are tough enough and blessed with a good portion of stamina and leg fat, you will appreciate the Duke on the descent even after 1500 meters of ascent. Those who are not quite so masochistic can use the Duke for short ascents from the lift. The ascent terrain close to the piste is tailor-made for the Duke. On a leisurely 300 meter ascent, the negative points of the Duke are hardly noticeable: the high total weight that has to be moved with every step, the awkward operation of the climbing aids, the uneconomical pivot point and the awkward entry and exit when changing from touring to downhill mode or vice versa. All negligible, provided you are fit enough or a lift ride makes the overall ascent easier.
In addition to the design changes, some detail improvements have ensured increased durability, e.g. new materials for the glide plate of the front jaw.
Conclusion
The Duke is a real freeride binding that - thanks to very good and direct power transmission - allows you to tackle the toughest couloir or the deepest powder snow even with wide skis. The option of climbing up to the next reverse slope to find untracked terrain makes it unique (apart from its little brother, the Marker Baron). If you have strength and stamina, you can also go on longer tours with the Duke, but other bindings offer more comfort on the ascent. The Marker Duke is the SUV among bindings, so to speak: if you want to, you can go off-piste with it and climb up yourself, if you don't want to, you have a prestige object as an additional gimmick that will at least make an impression at the next umbrella bar.
Rating
Accessibility: *
Descent characteristics: *****
Operability: *
Compatibility: *****
Scope of delivery: *****
Available accessories: ski stopper in 90mm, mounting instructions, adhesive template
Price (MSRP): 379,95 Euro (Baron: 329,95 euros)
Advantages
- Full-quality alpine binding
- Good power transmission
- Can be used with touring or alpine soles
- Easy home assembly thanks to drilling template
Disadvantages
- Ease of use of the touring function
- Low top step of the climbing aid
- High weight
- Standing height
Note: the pictures show the Duke model year 2011. The official product image shows the 2012 model year.
