Skibindung

Precise power transmission, solid release values and flexible use - the Attack Hybrid from Tyrolia enables adventures away from the ski lifts and transforms every freeride ski into a set-up that can also be used for touring.

The first generation of the Shift revolutionized touring. With the Shift² 16 MN, Atomic now promises the ultimate upgrade: revised weak points, more metal and a completely new heel construction should make the binding stronger and enable a Z-value of up to 16. Is it really the perfect solution for freeriders? I chased it through Japow and boarded it over hard slopes to answer this question.

With the Xenic Plus 12, Fritschi is launching a significant update of the Xenic on the market. In addition to the familiar advantages, the binding continues to impress with its low weight. However, numerous new features make it more stable and safer, making it particularly interesting for downhill-oriented ski tourers.

The Xenic plus 12 is for those who want to keep all their options open on the uphill and blossom on the downhill. In its category, the Xenic plus 12 impresses with outstanding downhill performance and a complete package of safety technologies.

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.

It is easy to imagine that there is a lot of work behind the introduction and further development of a ski touring binding. But here you can find out exactly how the process of feedback from various users, athletes and guides works and what added value this offers for the development process.

After extensively testing the flagship model from Atomic's new freeride line launched last year and publishing the short test last season, here is the overdue, full-fledged gear review now. This time tested in the 185 cm length and in a wide variety of snow conditions. Certainly not as intensive as the FWT tests, but certainly representative.

Many skiers still leave the fitting and adjustment of bindings to specialist shops, 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 case of an insurance claim or accident, 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 when a problem arises. It is therefore worth trying. And in case of doubt? You can always ask a specialist shop for help.

The name PLUM, derived from the French "plume" (feather), is a symbol of innovative quality. This is because Plum focuses on simplicity, durability and lightness in its bindings.

We at PowderGuide have a long-standing partnership with the binding specialists from Fritschi in Switzerland. Fritschi is (and has always been) an important player on the touring binding market, which is why we are always happy to test the new products from the Kandertal. For the current season, Fritschi has significantly revised its range, which is why we are testing the latest generation of the Tecton.

With the Backland 109, Atomic has added a very wide, downhill-orientated ski in the Backland freetouring line. With the HRZN 3D on the shovel, it is reminiscent of the Bent Chetler series, but in terms of weight it is a Backland. We tested how the wide freetourer performs in action.

Whether skis, snowboard or touring equipment: your equipment is your most important companion on the mountain. It determines fun and comfort, but also safety and, in an emergency, life and death. In this article, in collaboration with our partner Sport Conrad, we present the average lifespan of your equipement,, how you can recognise when it's time to replace it and which tips will help you to better assess the condition of your equipment. This article covers the categories; ski/snowboard, touring equipment, alpine touring equipment and safety equipment and provides tips on the lifespan and maintenance of your equipment.