7 Best Ski Bindings 2024 (Ranked & Reviewed)
Honestly, I rarely think about my bindings. They keep my skis on my feet, but they rarely cross my mind unless they fail (which is not often).
But if they do fail…
It can be catastrophic!
The good news is that the best ski bindings are designed to last. They test, test, and re-test them to ensure quality and performance.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Griffon 13
Key Features
Best Value
Attack 11 GW
Key Features
Best Hybrid
Duke PT 13
Key Features
What to Look For When Buying Bindings
Here are some key things to consider when buying a new pair of bindings:
- Type: There are three main types of bindings – alpine, touring, and telemark.
- DIN Range: Bindings come with a DIN rating, a measure of the binding’s release force. The higher the DIN rating, the less likely it is to release in a fall (which could be life-saving).
- Brake Width: The width of the binding’s brake needs to match your ski width
- Durability: Make sure the bindings are strong enough to handle your weight and frequency of use.
- Boot Sole Compatibility: Choose bindings that match your boot type and sole specifications.
- Weight: This is important for touring.
- Price: While price shouldn’t be the only factor to consider, ensure you get a quality product for your investment.
What Are The Best Ski Bindings?
Here is our ranked and reviewed list of the Best Ski Bindings.
The 7 Best Ski Bindings
- Best Overall Ski Bindings – Marker Griffon 13
- Best Value Ski Bindings – Tyrolia Attack 11 GW
- Best Hybrid Ski Bindings – Marker Duke PT 13
- Best Hard Charging Ski Bindings – Look Pivot 15
- Best Alpine Touring Pin Bindings – Marker Kingpin M-Werks 12
- Best Alpine Touring Frame Binding – Tyrolia Ambition 12 MN
- Best Telemark Binding – 22 Designs Outlaw NTN Bindings
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 4.0 – 13.0
- Sole Compatibility: Alpine, Touring, GripWalk
- Weight: 1030g
- Brake Size: 90mm – 120 mm
Key Features
- Inter Pivot 3 Heel
- Triple Pivot Elite Toe
The Marker Griffon 13 is the best overall Ski Binding. This popular model has only undergone minor changes to the heel piece for improved performance. The proven and long-lasting Griffin 13 continues its track record of performance for this season.
The Marker Griffin 13 is a versatile, all-mountain binding that can handle any condition or terrain. With a DIN range of 4-13, the Griffin 13 suits intermediate to advanced skiers. The Griffon 13 accommodates touring, GripWalk, or alpine boot sole norms. The brakes on the Griffon are easily exchangeable, making them compatible with a wide variety of ski widths.
The Marker Griffon 13 ID is one of the most versatile freeride bindings on the market, made for expert to advanced skiers. The Triple Pivot Elite toe and Inter Pivot 3 Freeride heel on the new Griffon 13 is lighter and more durable than previous versions.
More aggressive riders should consider the Marker Jester 16. It is a beefier version of this binding and is more robust, heavier, and aggressive.
Recommendation
We recommend the Marker Griffon 13 for advanced to expert all-mountain skiers. This binding is also a good choice for those who ski in a variety of conditions and terrain. For a more aggressive version of this binding take a look at the Jester 16.
Price
MSRP $269.99
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 3.0 – 11.0
- Sole Compatibility: Gripwalk & Downhill
- Weight: 1910g
- Brake Size: 85mm – 150mm
Key Features
- Gripwalk and downhill compatible
- Great performance for price
The Tyrolia Attack 11 GW bindings are the best budget downhill ski bindings on the market. They offer excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of some of the other bindings on this list.
The Attack 11 GW binding is an all-mountain ski binding with excellent control, performance, and ease of use. All Attack bindings now include the FR PRO 3 toe, which offers better stability and an improved heel design. The binding can be used with GripWalk and downhill soles, and switching between boot sole heights is simple.
The Tyrolia Attack is an easy choice for people putting together a new ski package, where cost is the primary concern. The lightweight toe of the Tyrolia Attack is strong enough for most resort days and contributes to a fun, playful feel. The Attack 11 is well-suited for an average to moderately stiff set-up.
The relatively wide DIN range (3.0-11) will work for most skiers, from beginners to experts, making this a versatile option that can accommodate a wide range of skiers. It does however used fixed mounting points which means it cannot be changed to match different boot sole lengths.
Recommendation
The Tyrolia Attack 11 GW bindings are the best budget ski bindings on the market. They offer excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of some of the other bindings on this list.
Price
MSRP is $275
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 4.0 – 13.0
- Sole Compatibility: Alpine, GripWalk, Touring
- Weight: 1300g
- Brake Size: 90mm – 120mm
Key Features
- Alpine heel
- Convertible pin alpine toe
The Duke PT 13 is Marker’s latest hybrid ski binding, offering incredible downhill performance and a comfortable uphill climb. It provides a DIN range of 4-13, a Ride & Hike toe, Lock & Walk heel piece with a 10° climbing aid for walking mode, and an Auto Quad Lock technology for downhill mode.
But what does it all mean?
The Marker Duke PT combines an alpine heel with a pin toe piece for the way up the hill and a full alpine binding for the downhill. The removable toe piece is switched when you transition from uphill to downhill.
Recommendation
This is for the skier looking to have it all: the comfort of a tech binding for climbing and the security of an alpine binding on the way down.
Price
MSRP $649.99
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 6.0 – 15.0
- Sole Compatibility: Gripwalk & Alpine
- Weight: 1245g
- Brake Size: 75 – 115
Key Features
- Longest elastic travel
- Superior high-impact performance
Whether you’re looking to huck it into Corbet’s or dream of taking the chimney, the Look Pivot 15 is the binding you want to keep your skis on your feet. Renowned for their reliability, some of the best skiers worldwide have confidently used the Pivot series alpine bindings to drop into big lines.
Known for its power, protection, and performance, the Look Pivot 15 combines strength with the longest elastic travel in the industry. The pivot continues to be utilized by the world’s most competitive and famous skiers while providing elite-level protection and performance.
For 2024, the Look Pivot 15 has been further refined to increase stability, precision, and control in challenging conditions. It is the perfect binding for aggressive skiing, as it offers superior protection in high-impact situations like big drops and burly runs. A DIN of 15 doesn’t cut it? Check out the Look Pivot 18.
Recommendation
The Look Pivot 15 is the best hard-charging ski binding on the market. It’s built for aggressive skiers who demand the best from their gear. If you plan on charging the mountain, the Pivot Look 15 will give you the confidence you need to send it.
Price
MSRP $429.99
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 5.0 – 12.0
- Sole Compatibility: Touring, Freetour
- Weight: 655g
- Brake Size: 90 – 120
Key Features
- Alpine heel with tech toe piece
The Marker Kingpin M-Werks 12 is the ultimate in Alpine Touring Pin Bindings. It features a state-of-the-art performance tech binding with DIN settings of up to 12, a carbon-reinforced heel, and an XXL power transmitter for increased uphill and downhill performance.
With an ergonomically shaped climbing aid, a stiff front ISI toe piece, and optimized pin levers, this binding will give you the edge during your next alpine skiing adventure. The levers make it easier to snap them shut with a gentle push, giving you the security and control needed on any alpine route.
Recommendation
For those looking for the benefits of a pin binding with the security of an alpine heel, the marker Kingpins are the best option.
Price
MSRP $799
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: 4.0 – 12.0
- Sole Compatibility: Alpine, GripWalk
- Weight: 990g
- Brake Size: 85mm – 125mm
Key Features
- Transition without having to take skis off
- Lighter than many other frame bindings
The Ambition 12 MN is the perfect combination of lightness and power. It has a unique frame construction with four rails, providing tremendous lateral stiffness and a lower weight than any other frame binding on the market.
The Ambition 12 MN also has an ergonomic toe piece featuring a new climbing aid range (a 0°/5°/10° switchable riser) and a height of only 38 mm, improving stability and offering a confident stance. The Ambition 12 MN provides constant release values, all the safety and downhill performance expected of a high-end TYROLIA binding, plus it is GripWalk compatible for even greater versatility.
The transition from walk mode to downhill uses a simple and safe push-button system. The Climbing Aid range is easy to operate, while the climbing steps provide secure footing for ascents.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a frame binding that will have you lapping the ski resort with an occasional tour outside the resort, the Tyrolia Ambition 12 is a great option.
Price
MSRP $525
Pros
Cons
Specs
- DIN Range: N/A
- Sole Compatibility: NTN Telemark
- Weight: 828g
- Brake Size: 95 – 125
Key Features
- NTN binding
- Easy on and off
Free the heel, free the mind. That’s the Outlaw mantra, and it couldn’t be more accurate. The best telemark binding on the market, the Outlaw allows for unparalleled movement in any direction while delivering unmatched power, precision, and unmatched performance.
When I chose bindings for my tele skis, the Outlaw X was at the top of my list. I’ve had them for over 3 years and haven’t had any issues. It is a versatile all-around NTN binding with simple step-in and out, lightweight, and a bombproof structure.
With sweet flex, lots of spring travel, sturdy steel construction, and blazing uphill and downhill performance, it’s built the 22 Designs way. The Outlaw X delivers true free-pivot performance for touring.
Recommendation
The Outlaw X is the best telemark ski binding on the market. It’s built tough, is easy to use, and delivers unparalleled performance. NTN free heelers will love the free pivot skinning and uphill performance. The Outlaw X is the best choice if you’re looking for a do-it-all telemark binding.
Price
MSRP $469.99
Buying Bindings Online
Buying bindings online is like buying any ski gear except for a few key factors. Choose the proper DIN range for your weight and skiing ability when buying bindings online. Double-check the brake width to ensure the bindings fit your skis.
If you purchase skis and bindings together, the store will often offer to mount the bindings for you. If this is the case, be sure that you have told the vendor your preferred mount location.
If you purchase the skis and bindings separately, take your skis and bindings to a reputable ski shop, and you can have the bindings mounted for you by a professional ski technician. You must take your boots and tell the technician your weight and skiing ability.
Pre-Packaged Deals on Skis and Bindings
Many companies will sell skis together with bindings in a pre-packaged deal. This is an excellent way to get started skiing, as it takes the guesswork out of the best ski binding combo. It also saves money as companies often give a discount when you buy a ski and binding together.
When buying a pre-packaged deal, pay attention to the DIN range to ensure they match your weight and skiing ability.
Ski Boot Soles
Not all boot soles are the same, and the standards have changed recently. Each boot sole type has a different standard, and the binding you choose must match your boot. Downhill ski boots have an Alpine DIN sole or ISO 5355. GripWalk and Walk to Ride WTR boots are generally found on backcountry and alpine touring boots. Finally, there are touring soles (ISO 9523). Each boot sole type interacts with the binding differently, and the wrong sole in the incorrect binding will change its release characteristics. With the incorrect combination, your ski may pop off too easily or not pop off at all and cause an injury.
The good news is that binding suppliers recognize the issue, and many are producing bindings that accommodate multiple sole types. Be sure to double-check before you order.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, our picks for the best ski bindings of 2022. With so many great bindings on the market, it’s hard to choose just one. But we feel confident that any of the bindings on our list will serve you well.
FAQ
Are lighter ski bindings better?
Lighter ski bindings are better for touring. However, Heavier ski bindings are more robust and usually have higher DIN settings, allowing for more aggressive skiing.
What should I look for in ski bindings?
What you should look for in a ski binding depends on how you intend to use the binding. There are several factors you should consider:
- Consider the DIN setting range. The higher the DIN setting, the more aggressive skiing you can do.
- Think about what kind of skiing you will be doing. If you use the binding for touring, you must have a binding with a walk mode (Tech Bindings, a Frame Binding, or a Hybrid Binding).
- You should consider the weight of the binding.
Lighter bindings are best for touring, while heavier bindings are best for aggressive skiing.
What does GW mean in ski bindings?
GW stands for GripWalk. It is a relatively new standard that adds extra rubber at the toe and heel of the boot sole to improve walking traction and comfort.
What are the lightest ski bindings?
The lightest ski bindings on our list are the Dynafit Radical ST 2.0.
What Are Hybrid Touring Bindings?
Hybrid touring bindings are a new technology recently introduced to the ski binding market. With the increasing popularity of backcountry skiing and touring, the demand for a binding that can travel up the hill and ski down has steadily grown. Hybrid bindings are the answer. Unlike tech bindings that use pin connections, hybrid bindings allow you to switch to an alpine downhill mode. This gives you the freedom and comfort up the hill, with the security of an alpine binding when skiing down.
The Salomon Shift MNC toe pieces do this with a segmented pin binding and a downhill toe that can be switched by pushing a lever. Alternatively, the Duke Marker PT and CAST Freetour kit systems have detachable toe pieces that allow you to change between a pin-binding toe and a downhill toe.
This means that your ski will release in downhill mode just like a regular alpine binding (DIN settings still apply). When you switch to touring mode, the binding becomes a pin binding, with the same features of other tech bindings, such as low weight and the ability to rotate on the ski. These bindings are best for backcountry skiers who want the advantages of a pin binding on the way up the hill with the security of an alpine binding on the downhill..
Hybrid bindings are still in their infancy, and I expect to see more companies develop their versions in the coming years.
What is DIN?
DIN measures how tightly your bindings hold onto your ski boot. The setting dictates how easy it is to release your ski binding in the event of a fall. The higher the DIN setting, the harder it is to release your ski.
Most people will have a DIN setting between 3 and 12, with the average being around 6-8. Your DIN release value should fall in the middle bindings DIN range.
DIN settings are personal and should be set by a certified ski technician based on your weight, height, and skiing ability. You can get an idea of your recommended setting using this DIN setting calculator.
What is Brake Width?
Brake width is the width of the brake arms on your ski binding. The width of your ski brakes should be slightly wider than the width of your ski. Wider brakes are generally used for freeride or wider skis or powder skis.
