ATK

Many ski tourers still leave the fitting and adjustment of bindings to the specialists, although at least the adjustment of bindings is not particularly complicated. But are you actually allowed to adjust bindings yourself? Legally, this is a grey area. In theory, insurance companies can demand proof of binding adjustment by a specialist in the event of a claim, but in practice this happens extremely rarely. Adjusting your own bindings helps you to better understand your own equipment and to be able to help yourself in the case of a problem in the terrain. So it's worth trying at least once. And in case of doubt? You can always ask a specialist for help.

For some years now, ATK has had pin bindings with a high Z-value and very low weight in its programme, which are aimed at ambitious ski tourers. This season we were able to test the ATK Raider 13 Evo, which also offers an adjustable DIN setting on the toe piece.

In a small factory in the centre of beautiful Freiburg im Breisgau, Frederic Andes produces fine skis and snowboards in small series by hand and with great attention to detail. Valhalla Ski's core business is lightweight, wide powder skis. These are available in different widths with three lengths each and in different core options, from super light to light. What all boards have in common is the demand for the most sustainable production possible and the greatest possible durability.

ISPO, an interesting but also very exhausting trade fair, has been postponed from January to autumn. However, at PowderGuide we still do our best to provide you with information about the material for the coming season. However, the information is largely based on information we received from manufacturers - after all, we weren't able to scrutinise the new products ourselves at ISPO.

With the FR 14, ATK is continuing its series of high-performance, lightweight freeride bindings. With a maximum Z value of 14, the binding is also one of the strongest pin bindings on the market. You can read about how the binding performs in practice and what else I can think of here.

Our partners have worked hard again this year to launch new products, innovations and real hits for the 2020/2021 season. They have been working on designs, colors, functions and materials. One very clear trend is to keep the ecological footprint as small as possible. We find this very pleasing and hope that it is not just a short-term trend, but will remain firmly anchored in the production chain in the future.

Climbing race bindings also have their raison d'être for weight-optimized ski tourers with a not too aggressive skiing style and without the option of adjusting the release values.

Some of the descriptions in this article are linguistically abstract and may be difficult to understand without holding something analog in your hand. I am trying to make the whole thing more or less tangible for low-tech newbies, even if some things are taken for granted by experienced colleagues. Recommendation: A cozy evening at home where you can see some of the points in this article for yourself on a "living object".