Ski Mountaineering and Freeride Bindings

Ski mountaineering bindings are a very important part of ski mountaineering equipment, as they are necessary for both ascent and descent from the mountain; making a wrong purchase could be very dangerous. Ski mountaineering is a skiing practice that is practiced in the mountains, when it is covered with snow; the ascent and descent mainly take place away from slopes and lifts, on off-piste slopes. Given the dangers and risks that can be taken while practicing this sport, the most important thing, especially for beginners, is to choose good ski mountaineering equipment, in particular ski mountaineering bindings. Ski mountaineering bindings are different from all other types of bindings: during ascents they must allow the heel to be free to allow walking, while during the descent the binding must keep the heel anchored to the ski. This type of attacks has both functions.

Which ski touring bindings should I buy and how to choose them?

As with the choice of any ski touring equipment , even in the case of bindings you will have to ask yourself questions about the way to practice this sport and your level of experience. Furthermore you will have to buy the bindings considering (if you already have them) the type of boots and skis, to which they will have to adapt perfectly. There are two main types of ski mountaineering bindings:

• Frame attachments : they have a heavier but sturdy structure, suitable for more experienced skiers, for demanding descents, and for climbs that are not particularly long or tiring.
• Ski touring bindings with toe and separate heel unit: much lighter and suitable for climbs, they are equipped with heel lifts with the possibility of attaching ski stoppers and rampants.

The DIN value is the release value of the ski touring bindings, and indicates the force required to release from the binding. A high DIN value (from 12 to 16) is suitable for experienced and strong skiers, who prefer the descent. For skiers who prefer to achieve better performance on the climb, it will be better to choose ski touring bindings with a lower DIN value. Alternativa Sport is a sporting goods retailer specialized in mountain sports and disciplines . For any type of information, or for the purchase of ski mountaineering bindings, the staff of Alternativa Sport will be happy to give you all the necessary information.