You've gotten yourself a brand new pair of alpine touring skis? Now it's time to complete your equipement with alpine touring ski bindings. Make sure to choose bindings that are suitable for your skis and your backcountry skiing style.
Here are the elements to consider when choosing your alpine touring ski bindings.
1. The weight of the bindings
Weight is an important factor in alpine touring, especially if you're doing long ascents. Choose lightweight bindings that are ideal for the ascent, and sturdy enough for the descent.
2. The climbing wedges
Get bindings equipped with heel lifts that will make ascents easier. They are located at the back of the bindings and allow for short, gliding steps to save energy. Pay attention to the heel lift adjustment system so that it is easy to adjust on the mountain.
3. The Brakes
Brakes are important to prevent your skis from sliding down the slope once you've taken your boots off. Some lightweight touring ski bindings don't have brakes. In this case, get a leash that will connect your ski boots to the front brake of your bindings.