The Shift MNC 13 is designed to combine the advantages of a classic alpine binding with the benefits of a pin binding. Reason enough to take a closer look at the new ski touring binding concept. The main target group for the Atomic Shift MNC 13 is likely to be downhill-oriented freeriders whose main focus is good power transmission on the descent. However, the binding could also be of interest to ski tourers who have previously preferred a frame binding. This is because there are hardly any similar models with a similar concept on the market to date. In addition to Atomic, Salomon also sells the Shift, albeit with a different product name.
The Shift MNC 13 in a practical test
I had the opportunity to test the Atomic Shift MNC 13 for half a day. The first thing you notice is that the binding is lighter than most frame bindings. Getting into the binding in downhill mode works without any problems, it's just like an alpine binding. What is also noticeable in addition to the low weight is the low stand height compared to a frame binding such as the Duke. This ensures very good power transmission to the ski. Thanks to the height-adjustable glide plate and a Z-value of 6-13, the release behavior should also be suitable, but thankfully I didn't have to test this due to the lack of falls. Thanks to the height-adjustable glide plate, the binding works with all ISO-standardized ski boots and has been certified by TÜV. It therefore complies with the MNC (Multi-Norn) standard.
When it was time to climb a few meters of altitude for the first time, I was faced with the question: "How did that all work again?". After a brief explanation, however, the changeover went smoothly - you just have to get used to the new procedure a little. It is important that there is no ice underneath when you fold down the lever on the toe piece, so you should bear this in mind if you are unable to get into the binding despite folding down the lever. Compared to a classic touring binding, the climbing aid can only be adjusted by one step, from two to ten degrees. In my opinion, however, this should be completely sufficient for most tours. When touring, you then have the usual comfort of a pin binding. After a few meters in altitude, however, the ski stopper on one of my skis folded down. The construction of the brake is the same as on the lightweight Backland Tour binding. I probably hit the ski stopper with my other ski and pushed it down. The ski stoppers can be brought back into downhill mode simply by pushing them down. So if you put a little pressure on the stopper when it is folded upwards, it can happen that it folds downwards. This could be annoying in the long run, but personally it only happened to me once that day.
