7 Best Ski Bindings 2022/2023 (Ranked & Reviewed)

Alpine Ski bindings don’t just connect your ski boots to your boards, they are an important part of your ski gear that makes sure your skis come off when they need to. The Best Ski Bindings of 2022 transmit your every move to the ski giving you precise control, while at the same time release your ski boots from the ski in the event of a fall.

In the past 5 years binding technology has undergone exciting advancements with manufacturers working towards a combined resort touring binding. With introductions like the Salomon Shift MNC and the Marker Duke PT, the ultimate binding is on the horizon.

To ensure you’re getting the best alpine ski bindings, we’ve put together a list of the best ski bindings of 2022.

Let’s get started!

What Are The Best Ski Bindings?

Here is our ranked and reviewed list of the Best Ski Bindings.

The 7 Best Ski Bindings

1. Best Overall Ski Bindings – Marker Griffon 13
2. Best Budget Ski Bindings – Tyrolia Attack 11 GW
3. Best Hard Charging Ski Bindings – Look Pivot 15
4. Best Hybrid Ski Bindings – Salomon Shift MNC
5. Best Alpine Touring Pin Bindings – Dynafit ST Rotation
6. Best Alpine Touring Frame Binding – Tyrolia Adrenalin 14 MN
7. Best Telemark Binding – 22 Designs Outlaw NTN Bindings

1) Best Overall – Ski Bindings – Marker Griffon 13

Overview

The Marker Griffon 13 is the best overall Ski Binding. This popular model has gone through only minor changes to the heel piece for improved step in performance. The proven and long-lasting Griffin 13 continues its track record of performance for this season.

The Griffin 13 is a versatile, all-mountain binding that can handle any condition or terrain you might encounter. With a DIN range of 4-13, the Griffin 13 is well suited for intermediate to advanced skiers. The Griffon 13 is ID which means the toe piece can accommodate almost any boot sole type including GripWalk, Walk-to-Ride, and even alpine touring specific soles (ISO 9523). The brakes on the Griffon are easily exchangeable making them compatible with a wide variety of ski widths.

The 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 ID are both 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.

Specs

• DIN Range: 4.0 – 13.0
• Sole Compatibility:
• Weight: 1030g
• Brake Size: 90 mm, 100 mm, 110 mm, 120 mm

What We Like

• Triple Pivot Elite Toe
• Inter Pivot 3 Heel
• Lightweight and durable construction
• Toe and heel pieces are easy to adjust
• Can accommodate a wide variety of boot soles

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 $289.99

2) Best Budget Ski Bindings – Tyrolia Attack 11 GW

Overview

The Tyrolia Attack 11 GW bindings are the best budget downhill ski bindings on the market. They offer great 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 greater stability, and a more improved heel design. The binding can be used with GripWalk and downhill soles, and it is simple to switch between boot sole heights.

The Tyrolia Attack is an easy choice for people putting together a new ski package, where cost is the major 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 will accommodate a wide range of skiers.

Specs

• DIN Range: 3.0 – 11.0
• Sole Compatibility: Gripwalk & Downhill
• Weight: 1910g
• Brake Size: 85mm – 150mm

What We Like

• List key features here
• Good performance for the price
• Gripwalk and downhill compatible
• Good DIN range for beginners to upper intermediate skiers

Recommendation

The Tyrolia Attack 11 GW bindings are the best budget ski bindings on the market. They offer great performance at a fraction of the cost of some of the other bindings on this list.

Price

MSRP in $199

3) Best Hard Charging Ski Bindings – Look Pivot 15

Overview

Whether you’re looking to drop that next big cliff or send it into Corbet’s, the Look Pivot 15 has you covered. Renowned for their reliability, the Pivot series alpine bindings have been used by some of the best skiers in the world to drop into big lines with confidence.

Known for their power, protection and performance The Look Pivot 15’s combine 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 2022 the Look Pivot 15 features a new reinforced toe piece which is 25% lighter than its predecessor. The Pivot also has an updated heel piece that offers 40% more elastic travel which reduces pre-release while providing more power transmission to your skis. With a DIN range of 6-14, the Pivot is built for aggressive skiers who demand the best from their gear.

Specs

• DIN Range: 6.0 – 15.0
• Sole Compatibility: Gripwalk & Downhill
• Weight: 1245g
• Brake Size: 75 – 130

What We Like

• The oldschool forza colors
• 6 – 15 DIN range
• Durability and strength

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 are planning on charging the mountain the Pivot Look 15 will give you the confidence you need to send it.

Price

MSRP $399.95

4) Best Hybrid Ski Bindings – Salomon S/LAB SHIFT 13 MNC

Overview

For skiers who like to split their time between the backcountry and the resort the S/Lab Shift bindings are the best hybrid ski bindings on the market. Salomon’s S/Lab line is known for being ultra-lightweight and these bindings are no different – they weigh in at a mere 1120 grams per pair. But despite their lightweight they are still packed with features that make them great for both backcountry and resort skiing.

This is the ultimate one quiver binding. Mount the Shift bindings on your favorite pow ski and you have yourself a resort/backcountry killer. The front toe piece of the binding functions as a pin binding for the hike up and converts back into a traditional downhill toe piece for the ride down. The switch over is quick and easy. Although not as light as a tech binding, the shift is still one of the lightest alpine touring bindings on the market.

The best thing about these bindings is that they offer the best of both worlds – the lightweight design and features that make them great for backcountry skiing without sacrificing any downhill performance. If you’re looking for a hybrid binding that can do it all, the Salomon S/Lab Shift is the best choice.

**Note: Be sure to double check that your boots will work with the shift bindings, you will need tech toe fittings with heel and toe lugs.

Specs

• DIN Range: 6.0 – 13.0
• Sole Compatibility: Gripwalk, Downhill, Walk to Ride
• Weight: 885g
• Brake Size: 90mm – 120mm

What We Like

• Lightweight and versatile
• Great for both backcountry and resort skiing
• One quiver binding

Recommendation

The Salomon S/Lab Shift is the best choice for a hybrid binding that can do it all. They are lightweight and versatile with a DIN range that will work for most skiers. The Shift MNC is a good all-around binding that does everything you need it to do, from skinning up that ridge and skiing down with ease.

Price

MSRP $600

5) Best Alpine Touring Pin Bindings – Dynafit ST Rotation

Overview

The Dynafit ST rotation is a TUV certified pin binding. It is the best touring pin binding on the market. The ST rotation has a low stack height which makes it one of the lightest and best performing bindings available. The binding also has adjustable release values which is helpful when skiing different terrain or conditions.

The binding has been built to be virtually indestructible and can withstand the rigors of backcountry skiing and includes a lifetime guarantee from Dynafit. For backcountry skiers searching for true downhill performance with elastic travel in the toe piece which gives the binding a full DIN certification.

Specs

• DIN Range: 7.0 – 14.0
• Sole Compatibility: Requires Boots with Tech Fittings in Toe and Heel
• Weight: 605g
• Brake Size: 90 – 120

What We Like

• DIN certified release mechanism
• Burly Touring binding
• Resort Capable Touring Binding

Recommendation

For those that want to be able to ski their touring set up in the resort, the ST Rotation is the best binding for you. It’s a bomber touring binding that can handle all the abuse you throw its way, and will even provide some downhill performance in the process.

Price

MSRP $650

6) Best Alpine Touring Frame Binding – Tyrolia Adrenalin 14 MN

Overview

The best touring frame binding is the Tyrolia Adrenalin 16. Although not the lightest bindings on our list, the Adrenalin 16s offer best-in-class downhill performance with a DIN range of 4-16. The bindings are compatible with both alpine and touring boots, making them a great option for those who want the best of both worlds.

These aren’t the lightest ski bindings available, but they aren’t supposed to be. The Tyrolia Adrenalin Binding is meant for people who want to ski the resort and do a few sidecountry laps or go on a day trip. Confidence in skiing hard and going big is the Adrenaline’s main benefit, justifying the weight.

With the introduction of hybrid bindings like the Salomon Shift MNC and the Marker Duke PT, frame bindings have fallen out of fashion. To be blunt, frame bindings are heavy, they don’t even come close to tech bindings in weight and are heavier than their hybrid counterparts. Their one saving grace is cost. If you are primarily a resort skier who likes the odd trip into the side country or a quick skin above the top lift and want to save some cash on your setup, frame bindings are the ticket. They are also a great way to start in the backcountry (My first backcountry setup was a frame binding).

The Tyrolia Adrenalin’s greatest design advantage is that you don’t have to take your skis off to switch from ski mode to walk mode and back again. If you’re looking for a do-it-all binding for both the resort and backcountry, the Adrenalin is a great choice.

Specs

• DIN Range: 4.0 – 14.0
• Sole Compatibility: Downhill, GripWalk
• Weight: 2740g
• Brake Size: 85mm – 130mm

What We Like

• Downhill and GripWalk compatible
• Don’t have to take skis off to switch from ski to walk
• Lighter than many other frame bindings

Recommendation

The Tyrolia Adrenalin 16 is the best frame binding for those who want to ski the resort and do a few sidecountry laps or go on a day trip. The bindings are compatible with both alpine and touring boots, making them a great option for those who want the best of both worlds.

Price

MSRP $500

7) Best Telemark Binding – 22 Designs Outlaw X NTN Bindings

Overview

Free the heel, free the mind. That’s the Outlaw mantra and it couldn’t be more true. The best telemark binding on the market, the Outlaw allows for unparalleled movement in any direction while delivering power, precision and performance that is unmatched.

When I chose bindings for my tele skis the Outlaw X was at the top of my list. I’ve had them for over 2 years and haven’t had any issues. It is a versatile all-around NTN binding with simple step-in and out, light weight, 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.

Specs

• DIN Range: N/A
• Sole Compatibility: NTN Telemark
• Weight: 828g
• Brake Size: 95 – 125

What We Like

• Solid construction
• Easy on and off
• Free pivot skinning

Recommendation

The Outlaw X is the best telemark 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. If you’re looking for a do-it-all binding, the Outlaw X is the best choice.

Price

MSRP $430

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.

Pre-Packaged Deals on Skis and Bindings

Many companies will sell skis together with bindings in a pre-packaged deal. This is generally a good way to get started skiing as it takes the guesswork out of what binding you need for your ski. It also saves money as companies often give a discount when you buy a ski and binding together.

When buying a pre-packaged deal make sure to pay attention to the DIN settings to be sure that they match your weight and skiing ability.

Buying Bindings Online

Buying bindings online is like buying any ski gear except for a few key factors. When buying bindings online make sure to choose the proper DIN range for your weight and skiing ability. The brake width should be double checked as well to ensure that the brakes sent with the bindings will fit your skis.

If you are purchasing 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 will need to take your boots in with you and tell the technician your weight and skiing ability.

Ski Boot Soles

Not all boot soles are the same and the standards have been changing in recent years. Each boot sole type has a different standard and the binding you choose must match your boot. Downhill ski boots have and Alpine DIN sole or ISO 5355. GripWalk and Walk to Ride WTR boots 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 wrong binding will change its release characteristics. This means if you have the wrong 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.

FAQ

Are lighter ski bindings better?

Lighter ski bindings are better for touring. Heavier ski bindings however are more robust and usually have higher DIN settings which allows 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. First, consider the DIN setting range. The higher the DIN setting the more aggressive skiing you can do. Second, you should consider what kind of skiing you will be doing. If you are going to be using the binding for touring, you will need to have a binding with a walk mode (PIN Bindings, a Frame Binding or a Hybrid Binding). Finally 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 as well as it can ski down has been steadily growing. Hybrid bindings are the answer, allowing you to switch between uphill and downhill modes. 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 both have detachable toe pieces that allow you to change between a pin binding toe and a downhill toe.

What this means is that in downhill mode your ski will release 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 ability to rotate on the ski. These bindings are best for those who want to do a lot of backcountry skiing with an alpine binding feel without having to lug around heavy frame bindings.

Hybrid bindings are still in their infancy and I expect to see more companies develop their own versions in the coming years.

What is DIN?

DIN is the measure of 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 somewhere between 3 and 12, with the average being around 6-8.

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 iea 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 powder skis which are generally wider skis.