Descent
The Tecton shows no weaknesses on the descent. The binding dampens a little due to the elasticity in the front and rear jaws and therefore does not ride as hard as classic pin bindings but more like an alpine binding, which I find pleasant. In general, the binding offers great power transmission, and overall I would definitely compare the downhill performance with that of an alpine binding.
The release behavior also leaves nothing to be desired. The Tecton has a high elasticity, so the ski stays on the foot when it should, but the binding releases when it should (due to my increasing age, however, falls are no longer a daily occurrence). In any case, the Tecton provides a lot of security and I now trust it completely. Neither high speeds in hard snow nor small drops upset it. Of course, due to the Z-value, the range of use is more for touring than hardcore freeriding, but the binding also has reserves in this area for heavy riders who prefer a fast riding style.
Conclusion
Great binding that leaves nothing to be desired. Great performance on the descent, easy and quick to use, high level of safety and also light enough for long ascents. Unfortunately, slight limitations when used with some boot models.
Advantages and disadvantages
+Super power transmission
+High level of safety thanks to adjustable release on the toe piece
+Release possible on the ascent
+Easy entry & comfortable operation
-Restricted crotch length with some boots
Details
RRP €534.95
Low grip system with alpine heel clamps: Direct contact boot-binding-ski - The heel clamp presses the boot sole firmly onto the heel plate, which is directly connected to the ski, and ensures constant direct traction.
Power-Rail: The boot remains fixed - As an absolute novelty, the Power Rail engages in the back of the boot, fixes it in the middle and prevents loss of power.
Fixed, non-rotating heel unit: The heel unit remains laterally stable - the power flow in turns is not interrupted by a rotating movement as with other pin bindings.
Long dynamic travel of 13mm: Release only when necessary - thanks to dynamic travel - The longest dynamic travel of 13 mm prevents unwanted releases and absorbs lateral impacts so that the ski always retains the best grip.
Lateral release with DIN adjustment at the front: As with alpine bindings - pin binding with lateral release and DIN value adjustment at the front, where the lateral forces act in the event of a fall.
Rear frontal release with 9 mm dynamic travel: Frontal release with dynamics - The frontal release takes place via the heel piece with 9 mm dynamic travel. The high restoring force of the spring prevents unintentional release and compensates for the high tensile forces on the leg when falling forwards.
Release Lever: After the heel is released, the shoe tilts forwards. The boot is also released immediately in the front unit by pressing the boot nose on the release lever.
Emergency release on the ascent: Good grip on the ascent and safety in an emergency - the boot is fixed and held in the middle. However, the binding releases when a lot of force is applied. Clamping systems must be blocked on the ascent to ensure stability.
Fixed stop for entry: Easy entry - The toe of the boot is optimally positioned via a fixed stop and an orientation aid. The system closes with light pressure as the pin levers engage precisely in the inserts. The movement sequence is comparable to alpine bindings
Simple, easy operation: Safety in any terrain, in all conditions - switching from ascent to descent and vice versa is very easy without getting out of the binding. The three walking steps can also be changed in no time with the pole.
Here is the link to the Fritschi website with further information, here you can buy the Tecton from our partner store Bergzeit.de.
The binding was provided to PowderGuide free of charge for testing. Find out how we tested it in our test statement.