Earlier this month, a thru-hiker was stabbed to death on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. After a few cursory moments of thoughts and prayers, the internet started offering suggestions that hikers arm themselves with guns.

Comments on the 国产吃瓜黑料 social-media channels ranged from thoughtful to truly paranoid, but what surprised most me was听how many people claimed to carry a gun on the trails听 to Wes Siler鈥檚 2018 piece about whether or not to carry a firearm听in the backcountry听(he ultimately argues that nonlethal defense is a better option). Many, it seems, fancy themselves pretty savvy gunslingers: Is that Wild Bill Hickock or Jeremy from accounting? It鈥檚 hard to tell. And that scares me far more than any grizzly bear or random hiker I鈥檓 likely to encounter. Anonymous recreationists carrying guns should scare you, too.

I鈥檓 not anti-gun, nor am I a city-dwelling ideologue. I鈥檝e lived in Montana for nearly 20 years, and听I own guns. The only time I carry one into the woods, however, is to hunt. To kill game. That鈥檚 what they鈥檙e built to do.

I鈥檝e been an outdoor writer and editor for nearly as long, covering everything from skiing and climbing to hunting and fishing. I own a backcountry guide service and operate exclusively in grizzly country, including some of the most bear-dense parts听of Yellowstone. I鈥檝e had dozens of grizzly encounters, run-ins with polar bears on Arctic ski expeditions, and more than a few awkward conversations with disturbed individuals over the years鈥攁ll sans sidearm and no worse for wear. Some of these experiences were scary, but I鈥檝e never pulled the trigger on my bear spray (much less a pistol), and every one of those encounters made me a better outdoorsman.

I鈥檝e also worked as an armed courier, transporting millions of dollars in an armored Freightliner鈥攁 job that required defensive-firearms training and certification with law enforcement and former military contractors. Guns were part of my wardrobe, and I鈥檓 comfortable with almost any firearm you could put in my hand. It鈥檚 guns in other peoples鈥� hands that make me nervous.

I鈥檓 not going to cite statistics about rifles and pistols or their effectiveness in wilderness-self-defense scenarios (the outcomes are generally piss-poor). The only fact that truly matters is irrefutable: the more firearms present in a situation, the greater chance you have of being injured or killed. Period. This isn鈥檛 a guns-in-America discussion. This is about whether it鈥檚 necessary or reasonable to carry them while recreating on public land and trails.

Are We in Danger?

We are not in danger on our favorite hiking trails and in our national forests. In fact, these places are ridiculously safe. While the recent murder on the AT is tragic, it was also an incredibly rare event. According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which manages and preserves the trail, between two million and three million people hike part or all of the AT every year (over 5,000 are registered for nonstop thru-hikes this year alone), and yet in 45 years of record keeping, just . The most recent murder was only the third since 2000. If you extrapolate an average of two million hikers per year since the turn of the century, that equates to a murder rate of roughly 0.008 per 100,000 hikers.

In my backyard, grizzly bears roam freely, as they should. Sure, each year bears maul people, but most incidents are predictable and preventable: the elk hunter creeping around in the fall听when bears are stockpiling calories for winter,听the habituated bear feeding in urban areas,听the surprised sow with cubs. These are outlier events, not an assault on humanity. We are statistically very, very safe on the AT, in grizzly country, and everywhere else we recreate outside. I bet my life on it nearly every day.

Still, some people will insist they need a gun just in case. This means one of two things: they are completely terrified of some unspecified threat, or they simply like guns because they鈥檙e cool听and want to carry one. That is completely legal in most cases. But what is legal and what is reasonable are often not the same.

Why Carrying a Gun Is听Unnecessary and Dumb

There are three practical reasons why carrying a gun in the backcountry is silly.

First, any responsible听owner knows that the highest priority is the security of their weapon at all times. On the trail, that becomes a real issue, since there鈥檚 no way to safely store your weapon. Want to go for a quick swim? Sorry, you can鈥檛 leave your sidearm unattended. Need to head into town for a resupply? Public transportation is off-limits, and most businesses don鈥檛 allow firearms. Want to grab a cold beer at the local watering hole after a particularly humid stretch of trail? Bummer, because in most states guns听aren鈥檛 allowed in bars.

Second, hikers and backpackers are notorious gram counters. Are you seriously going to agonize for months over how to save a few grams on your stove, tent, and shoes, and then pack two pounds of loaded pistol on your hip? You may as well carry an external frame pack and a canvas-wall tent.

Finally, and most importantly, carrying a gun changes the way we interact with and feel about others. For thru-hikers, the social element is an enormously rewarding part of the experience. They meet people from around the world, adopt kooky trail names, share information (including who might be sketchy or carrying a weapon), and coexist for a brief time in a remarkable place, doing a remarkable thing. Bring a firearm into that dynamic, and it won鈥檛 be the same. Others don鈥檛 know you鈥攖hey don鈥檛 know your training, demeanor, judgment, or intelligence. All they know is that you have a weapon听and, with it, the power to hurt them. And that鈥檚 all that truly matters. Guns intimidate.

There Are Better Ways to Stay Safe

The most important defensive training I received had nothing to do with how to apply deadly force. One of my instructors (a former Army Ranger) told us that if you need to improvise a defensive situation, it鈥檚 probably already too late. Whether it鈥檚 a charging bear, a person with a knife, or a terrorist with a bomb, if we鈥檙e reacting to a situation, we鈥檝e already lost.

Situational awareness and anticipation are the keys to avoiding trouble, and these are the best tools we have to remain safe in any environment. They are what we used to safeguard all that cash when I was an armed courier听and what I use daily to keep my clients safe in the backcountry.

Do research before you embark on any adventure. Identify threats鈥攂ears, people, weather, fire. Educate yourself on these threats. Be alert, and note the details of your surroundings and the people you encounter. Something feel off? It probably is; change your strategy. It鈥檚 easier to avoid a dangerous situation than it is to escape one.

There are courses for this stuff, so rather than buy a handgun, take a class in developing situational awareness. If you hike in grizzly country, take a bear safety and behavior course, and practice deploying your bear spray. This makes it easier to identify a legitimate threat, and the beauty of bear spray is that if you pull the trigger and your judgment is poor, no one is dead. But whether it鈥檚 a bear or a knife-wielding assailant, they will not be a threat after a lungful of pepper.

A gun is not the cure for fear. Guns听treat the symptoms of fear by making us feel safer and more powerful. But like water on a grease fire, they tend to escalate conflict rapidly. And if you鈥檙e in a defensive position, you probably won鈥檛 come out ahead.

Please, for the sake of the rest of us鈥攖he good guys on the trail鈥攄on鈥檛 carry a gun. It makes it awfully hard to tell who the good guys are. Going for a hike, run, or bike ride in the woods is incredibly safe. Let go of the fear.

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Beast 16 Bindings

BEST FOR: Stomping big backcountry lines.

THE TEST: The first 16-DIN tech binding, the new features a 鈥渞eturn to center鈥� toe piece. As you ski, the binding deflects to absorb shock. It鈥檚 one of the reasons, safety-wise, alpine-style bindings outperform tech bindings. The Beast also offers just six degrees of ramp angle from heel to toe, which makes for easier lateral movement and less pressure on the quads. 4 lbs.

THE VERDICT: It鈥檚 two pounds heavier than a svelte tech binding but still a pound lighter than most freeskiing AT bindings.

TOURABILITY: 3.5

POWER: 5

G3 Onyx Bindings

BEST FOR: Versatility.

THE TEST: The has matured into a dependable tech binding. We like that the brake remains engaged, even in tour mode, until the skier makes the first stride, thus saving the ski from unmanned adventures down the hill. Also smart: aftermarket plates ($77) let you use the same bindings on all your skis. 3.6 lbs.

THE VERDICT: Most improved binding of the year.

TOURABILITY: 3.5

POWER: 3.5

Tryolia Adrenaline Bindings

BEST FOR: Going down more than up.

THE TEST: The is heavy. It鈥檚 strong. It can handle cliff drops and race speeds. At almost six pounds for the pair, 鈥渋t sucks energy like a black hole鈥� on the skin track, said one tester. Mates best with stiff AT or alpine boots.

THE VERDICT: With DIN values to 16, height-adjustable toes that accommo- date alpine or AT boot soles, and a Titanal-reinforced mode lock, the Adrenalin is all about the descent. 5.8 lbs.

TOURABILITY: 2.5

POWER: 4.5

Salomon Guardian WTR 13 Bindings

BEST FOR: Heavy-metal-inspired descents; skiing primarily inbounds.

THE TEST: The updated, slightly lighter remains the best-performing freeride AT binding available. A low stack height lends it great snow feel, and the extrawide platform can power the fattest powder skis. It鈥檚 too heavy for anything other than short backcountry missions, but switching modes is a snap. 6.3 lbs.

THE VERDICT: An alpine binding with a walk mode.

TOURABILITY: 2

POWER: 5

TwentyTwo Designs Axl Bindings

BEST FOR: Driving big tele skis.

THE TEST: The offers top edging power and initiates turns without slop, thanks to a one-piece aluminum toe and stiff underfoot springs. Three settings let you adjust flex from aggressive to easy. 4 lbs.

THE VERDICT: At four pounds it鈥檚 hardly lightweight, but the Axl鈥檚 performance is unmatched.

TOURABILITY: 3.5听

POWER: 4.5

Dynafit Radical ST Bindings

BEST FOR: Covering lots of ground.

THE TEST: The are tough to beat for their durability and user-friendly features. The forged-aluminum toe piece, with handy guides that align your boot with the pins, is now easier to step into. The binding is also wider and stiffer laterally to power today鈥檚 bigger skis, and it鈥檚 incredibly lightweight鈥攁 huge plus after the first couple-thousand feet of climbing.

THE VERDICT: 国产吃瓜黑料 of a pure randonn茅e race binding, the Radical sets the efficiency standard. 2.3 lbs.

TOURABILITY: 5

POWER: 3

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Black Diamond Equipment Push Ski Boots

BEST ALL MOUNTAIN (TELEMARK)

Last year, BD updated the with an improved Boa liner and a plastic tongue for more forward support. It remains BD鈥檚 do-it-all boot, with good lateral rigidity and smooth range of motion on the way up. 8.6 lbs

Dynafit Vulcan TF Ski Boots

BEST FAST AND LIGHT (ALPINE TOURING)

With a carbon-fiber cuff and three buckles, the 鈥檚 stiffest boot. The free-floating cuff makes for effortless strides when touring. Our only gripe: getting it on and off is a bit tricky. 7 lbs

Scarpa Terminator X Ski Boots

BEST BIG MOUNTAIN (TELEMARK)

The touring-oriented , redesigned specifically for the Freedom NTN binding, is reasonably stiff and laterally powerful. Smart: tech-compatible fittings allow you to pair it with Dynafit-type alpine-touring bindings. 7 lbs

Garmont Kenai Ski Boots

BEST FAST AND LIGHT (TELEMARK)

remains one of the lightest telemark boots out there. Its low-cut Pebax shell helps minimize weight and maximize comfort. But it can only drive lightweight touring skis under 100 millimeters. 7.2 lbs

Scarpa Maestrale RS Ski Boots

BEST ALL MOUNTAIN (ALPINE TOURING)

This year鈥檚 four-buckle is stiffer and heavier but otherwise unchanged, with a comfy walk mode and a moldable liner. It can drive all but the fattest skis. 鈥淓xactly the same boot only better,鈥� said one tester. 6.9 lbs

Lange XT 130 Ski Boots

BEST BIG MOUNTAIN (ALPINE TOURING)

Lange finally embraces the sidecountry with the . It鈥檚 stiff enough to drive any ski but is designed to go up, too, with a hike mode, lightweight buckles and liner, and a grippy rubberized sole. Available in two widths. 9.3 lbs

Psst, hard-charging resort skiers who hike a lot and occasionally head into sidecountry: the Lange XT 130 is designed for you.

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TwentyTwo Designs Axl Bindings

BEST FOR: The bigger-is-better crowd.

THE TEST: The is burly enough to drive any ski, but what sets it apart is a simple, durable touring pivot. On descents, testers noted that the stainless-steel toepiece offered unbelievable lateral power and predictable response, particularly in tough conditions. Three cable positions let every skier dial in their preferred tension.

THE VERDICT: Pair it with big boots to take full advantage of the power and precision. 3.8 lbs

Tourability: 3.5
Power: 4.5

Rottefella NTN Freedom Bindings

BEST FOR: Aggressive skiers.

THE TEST: We tried to find a downside to Rottefella鈥檚 lighter and flexier version of the classic NTN Freeride, but we couldn鈥檛. The retains the Freeride鈥檚 commanding lateral power, semi-releasable safety, and near infinite adjustability, but thanks to a redesigned tour mode that鈥檚 almost completely free (there鈥檚 just a touch of forward tension), it taxed us a lot less while climbing. 鈥淪mooth, powerful, and efficient,鈥� concluded one tester.

THE VERDICT: Pair 鈥檈m with the fattest skis you own. 3.3 lbs

Tourability: 4
Power: 4.5

G3 Enzo Bindings

BEST FOR: All-around touring plus downhill adjustability.

THE TEST: New from G3, the features a stout stainless-steel toe box, adjustable underfoot cable routing, push-button tour and downhill-mode switching, and uninhibited touring motion. Testers found the Enzo more powerful than G3鈥檚 previous model, the Targa, and they appreciated the versatility of three cable settings.

THE VERDICT: A nice binding, but neither the lightest nor the most powerful. 3.8 lbs

Tourability: 4
Power: 3

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Dynafit Radical TLT FT Bindings

BEST FOR: Charging the resort and then ducking into sidecountry.

THE TEST: The newly updated is Dynafit鈥檚 most powerful binding, specifically designed to pair with fat powder boards. The toepiece鈥檚 side towers鈥攂eefed-up versions of the pincers found on older Dynafit models鈥攎ake the binding easier to get into and out of and increase power transfer. And the improved heel-riser design makes it easier than ever to adjust the climbing height on the fly, no more contortions necessary.

THE VERDICT: An uncanny blend of power and weight. The Radical is the most confidence-inspiring Dynafit binding we鈥檝e ever tested. 2.6 lbs

Tourability: 5
Power: 4

Salomon Guardian 16 Ski Bindings

BEST FOR: Short tours just outside the resort and maximum power in-bounds.

THE TEST: The 鈥檚 wide toe unit (80 millimeters), low stack height (its chassis sits closer to the ski than any other binding鈥檚 in its class), and beefy materials (the toepiece is a stout fiberglass-nylon composite) make the Guardian the most precise and powerful AT binding we鈥檝e seen. It accepts all alpine and alpine touring boots, and testers liked the 鈥渢otally alpine feel鈥� for charging through myriad resort conditions.

THE VERDICT: It鈥檚 a downhill binding鈥攋ust look at the weight鈥攂ut suitable for short skin tracks back to the resort, cat, or heli. 6.5 lbs

Versatility: 2
Power: 5

No, you're not crazy. The Guardian 16 is also being sold as the Atomic Tracker 16. (Salomon and Atomic are owned by the same company.) Identical binding, different name and paint job.

La Sportiva RT Ski Bindings

BEST FOR: Ultralight touring without losing performance.

THE TEST: It doesn鈥檛 seem possible that a full-featured touring binding this sturdy鈥攖he has an aluminum-alloy framework and hardened steel pins鈥攃ould weigh so little (a little more than a pound per pair). Even more impressive is that the RT comes equipped with some serious safety features, including a lateral and vertical heel-release mechanism built into the baseplate to keep it out of the way.

THE VERDICT: 鈥淚t鈥檚 the sexiest and the lightest,鈥� said one tester, 鈥渂ut it鈥檚 gonna cost you.鈥� 19 oz

Tourability: 5
Power: 3

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K2 BackDrop Backcountry Skis

GEAR OF THE YEAR: With the BackDrop, K2 has refined its proven recipe for a powder ski鈥攁 perfect blend of rocker and sidecut combined with a bit of carbon fiber鈥攚ith fantastic results. 鈥淐atlike quickness, and it floats like a cork,鈥� one tester said. 鈥淩equires minimal skier input to smear, slash, or rail any turn,鈥� said another. It鈥檚 also light enough to tour with, thanks to that lattice of carbon in the tail and forebody. The result is a go-anywhere, shred-anything ski that craves powder but can handle resort chop without complaint. Bonus: K2鈥檚 pre-trimmed skins ($200) snap into the BackDrop鈥檚 tip and tail holes in seconds. 142/112/131; 8 lbs

Versatility: 4.5
Power: 4

DPS Wailer 99 Pure Skis

BEST FOR: Weight watchers who crave long backcountry tours.

THE TEST: The may be only 99 millimeters at the waist, but it floats like a much fatter ski, thanks in part to generous tip rocker and variable sidecut. But what most impressed testers was how well it skied on hard snow. A tapered tail and traditional camber add up to what one tester called 鈥渢he Leatherman of skis.鈥�

THE VERDICT: Expensive but fun. The hefty price tag is due to the all-carbon-fiber layup; it鈥檚 also available in a slightly heavier (less carbon), not-quite-as-lively version, the Hybrid ($799). 126/99/110; 7.5 lb

Versatility: 5
Power: 3.5

Dynastar Cham High Mountain Skis

BEST FOR: Carving up backcountry and pulling double-duty at the resort.

THE TEST: With a lightweight paulownia wood core and an early-rise tip, the planed effortlessly. 鈥淏ounces like a bumblebee in powder,鈥� one tester said. Traditional camber holds an edge on harder surfaces, and the tapered tail finishes any arc with ease.

THE VERDICT: Just enough guts to blast through crud all day at the resort, but happiest seeking out soft snow in the backcountry. If you鈥檙e more often in-bounds than out, consider the standard Cham, which has a denser poplar core and two layers of metal, and weighs two and half pounds more. 137/107/122; 8.7 lbs

Versatility: 4
Power: 3.5

G3 Empire Skis

BEST FOR: Rocketing down big faces.

THE TEST: G3鈥檚 biggest ski to date combines stiffness and full reverse camber to achieve what testers called a 鈥渟pirited and fun鈥� ride. All that rocker means this behemoth skis much shorter and smaller than it looks, which translated to high marks for agility and playfulness, even at top speed. 鈥淵ou can let 鈥檈m run, but it dumps speed instantly,鈥� one tester said. As a bonus, even with a tough Titanal topsheet, the is just light enough to haul uphill.

THE VERDICT: Bounce, slide, carve, and smear in the deepest snow. 153/127/139; 9.5 lbs

Versatility: 3
Power: 4

Atomic Automatic Skis

BEST FOR: Charging down big mountain slopes with superior maneuverability.

THE TEST: Atomic calls its new technology 鈥渟procket power boosters鈥濃�攂asically, titanium rods integrated into the wood core. Our testers said it works. The was stable at high speeds but still had lots of rebound. 鈥淨uick turn initiation,鈥� noted one. A tapered tip and tail make for playful feel in soft snow, and there鈥檚 more sidecut than you might expect (note how narrow the waist is), which made railing turns on firm snow surprisingly fun.

THE VERDICT: One of the liveliest big-mountain skis on the hill. 140.5/117/129.5; 9.7 lbs

Versatility: 4
Power: 4.5

V枚lkl Nanuq Skis

BEST FOR: Ripping the backcountry in all conditions.

THE TEST: Sharing the same lightweight, multilayered wood core as last year's Gear of the Year-winning Nunataq, the Nanuq is a more touring-oriented ski designed for variable conditions. Thanks to a healthy dose of tip rocker, it performed well in powder, where testers called it agile and energetic.

THE VERDICT: Almost a quiver of one. Just be careful in the crud. While ther'es enough sidecut to bite into firmer snow, the ultralight Nanuq gets a bit squirrelly in variable snow. 131/96/114; 7lbs

Versatility: 3.5
Power: 4

Voile Buster Skis

BEST FOR: Hunting down fresh snow.

THE TEST: 鈥淚t鈥檚 the perfect backcountry package: flotation, weight, power, and price,鈥� gushed one tester. With a 118-millimeter waist, the is a true powder ski, but camber and a carbon-and-fiberglass-reinforced aspen core will stand up to rigorous in-bounds pounding. Considering how light it is, the ski lived up to its name in variable conditions, providing a surprisingly stable platform when blasting through cruddy snow, while a rockered tip and tapered tail give the Buster float and maneuverability in the softer stuff.

THE VERDICT: Surprisingly stable in all conditions for such a lightweight ski. 139/118/127; 7.8 lbs

Versatility: 4
Power: 4

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Voile Switchback X2 Telemark Bindings

BEST FOR: TELEMARK

In its second year, the , one of the lightest free-pivoting bindings on the market, has proven itself to be an intuitive, powerful backcountry workhorse for driving all but the most gigantic skis. Touring performance is excellent, with a simple mechanism and easy mode changes. Testers called it an 鈥渁ll-in-one combo鈥� with 鈥渓ateral stiffness on par with bigger bindings.鈥� Pair it with a medium-stiff boot for maximum return. 3.1 lbs

Tourability: 5
Power: 3.5

Marker FT 12 Tour Alpine Touring Bindings

BEST FOR: ALPINE TOURING

Built on a wide chassis, the is similar to the Duke, Marker鈥檚 beefiest offering, in its alpine-inspired power transmission and responsiveness. It鈥檚 strong enough for demanding in-bounds skiing, but it has an ergonomic stride and weighs over a pound less than the Duke. Mode changes still require you to remove your skis, but it鈥檚 as easy to get in and out of as a traditional alpine binding. 4.5 lbs

Tourability: 3.5
Power: 3.5

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Marker Duke Bindings

THE SELL: Maximum downhill performance with some tourability. THE TEST: Marker now makes lighter bindings (the Baron and Tour F10/12), but the updated Duke, which has a wider binding chassis for stronger power transfer from boot to ski, remains the most powerful and torsionally rigid AT binding on the market. Two other smart improvements: the updated AFD pad (the part of the binding under the forefoot) is now compatible with almost every AT boot on the market, and the higher climbing bar makes for easier skinning on steep tracks. THE VERDICT: The updated ergonomics and chassis are welcome; it鈥檚 still the best binding for someone who skis predominantly in-bounds and only occasionally goes on short tours. 5.7 lbs

TOURABILITY: 3
POWER: 5

Twenty-Two Designs Axl Bindings

THE SELL: A stout, free-pivot touring binding that can take a beating and drive the biggest skis. THE TEST: The stainless-steel Axl isn鈥檛 light. But most testers were willing to accept a little heft on the uptrack for what one described as 鈥渦nmatched lateral stability and power.鈥� A new heel lifter now accommodates nearly every boot on the market, and on the downhill, unlike other bindings, the Idaho-made Axl has three settings for its underfoot-mounted cables to satisfy styles from big-mountain chargers to meadow skippers. THE VERDICT: Plays best with stiff boots and big boards. 4 lbs

TOURABILITY: 3.5
POWER: 4.5

Rottefella NTN Freeride Ski Bindings

THE SELL: A resort-oriented step-in telemark binding with increased safety and mucho power. THE TEST: With its safety release, standard brakes, and four cartridge options to cover nearly every modern telemark style, the unchanged NTN (only the paint job is new) remains our favorite binding for aggressive skiing in our out of bounds. It tours pretty well, too. But, at more than four pounds, and with a walk mode that's not quite friction-free, it isn't nearly as efficient as a lightweight, free-pivot binding like the Voile Switchback X2. THE VERDICT: The most alpinelike binding available in terms of edge control and step-in ease. 4.4 lbs

Tourability: 2.5
Power: 5

Dynafit Radical FT12 Bindings

THE SELL: A resort-worthy Dynafit binding. THE TEST: We were skeptical, but the Radical, with its wider footprint and stronger lateral impact resistance on the toe-piece towers, really is tough enough to handle daily in-bounds wear and tear. Because it鈥檚 low to the ski and offers no lateral play, the FT12 turns on a dime, in-bounds or out. And at a pound and change per binding, it still received high marks on the way up. Efficient heel-post climbing aids adjust with the flick of a pole, making transitions easier. THE VERDICT: Toughest Dynafit we鈥檝e tested. 2.6 lbs

TOURABILITY: 4.5
POWER: 3.5

Voile Switchback X2 Bindings

THE SELL: The lightest free-pivot telemark binding on the market. THE TEST: The Switchback has long been a tester favorite for fast-and-light touring setups; our only gripe has been its lack of power. Seeking to address that, Voile overhauled the X2 this year, pulling the cable routing back more than an inch to create what one tester described as 鈥済reater lateral control and a much more active engagement.鈥� Voile also outfitted the X2 with a longer, more supportive toe plate and stiffer cartridges. THE VERDICT: It鈥檚 definitely got more oomph, but some testers still longed for more power. 3.2 lbs

TOURABILITY: 5
POWER: 3.5

La Sportiva RT Bindings

THE SELL: The lightest touring binding on the market. THE TEST: Built out of an extremely strong (and expensive) aluminum alloy, with hardened-steel heel pins and stainless-steel springs, the 10-DIN RT is a lot stronger than it appears. And despite how light it is (less than a pound per pair), the RT has all the touring features we look for: a three-position heelpiece, integrated crampon attachments, and brakes ($125; sold separately). Our only gripe is that you can鈥檛 adjust the heelpiece with your ski pole; you鈥檝e got to twist it by hand. THE VERDICT: A deceptively full-featured binding. 13 oz

TOURABILITY: 5
POWER: 2.5

La Sportiva鈥檚 new alpine-touring bindings, the RTs, are built with the same tech fittings as the Dynafit bindings they鈥檙e modeled after, and they work with all Dynafit-compatible boots.

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V枚lkl Nunataq

It鈥檚 the Holy Grail: a fully rockered powder ski that carves cleanly on hard snow. Finally, the Nunataq nails it. 鈥淧ivot, slash, and edge with power; super-fun,鈥� said one tester. 鈥淏uttery flex, exceptional dampness, effortless turn initiation鈥攜et still light enough to climb,鈥� said another. One of the main reasons this ski is so playful is its shape. The Nunataq鈥檚 dimensions are based on V枚lkl鈥檚 Gotama alpine ski, one of the most popular all-mountain powder skis of all time. While the Nunataq is at its best slashing through soft or uncut snow, the combination of moderate flex, traditional sidecut, and tip-to-tail rocker means you can still lean on it confidently on firmer snow. Thanks to air channels in the ski鈥檚 wood core, the Nunataq is also remarkably light for such a wide board. Bonus: holes in the tip make affixing the optional pretrimmed Colltex skins ($185; ) a snap. 139/107/123, 7.9 lbs

VERSATILITY: 4.5
POWER: 4.5

Black Diamond Megawatt skis

THE SELL: A powder specialist that鈥檚 as fun as it is fat. THE TEST: Redesigned with more aggressive rocker and softened flex, the new Megawatt is even more user-friendly. Testers found this giant more forgiving, more dynamic, and, most important, more fun. Testers cited 鈥淚ndy-car handling鈥� and relished medium-radius and long-radius turns at speed. But hardpack is no friend of the Megawatt, and at nearly ten pounds a pair, it takes a strong set of hip flexors to haul them uphill. For those who can, however, the payoff is 鈥渙ne bitchin鈥� ride down.鈥� THE VERDICT: One of the most playful fat skis on the market. 145/120/126, 9.7 lbs

VERSATILITY: 2.5
POWER: 4

Faction Royale Skis

THE SELL: Playful powder specialist. THE TEST: With heavy rocker elevating the tip and tail and a dead-flat profile underfoot, the Royale is a dedicated powder tool, as happy landing tricks off of a booter in the backcountry as it is pivoting and smearing down a pillow line. Testers ran out of similes for fun as they described the agility and energy of the Royale in soft snow. But like the Black Diamond Megawatt, the Royale鈥檚 soft rockered tip and tail deflect quite a bit on firmer snow. THE VERDICT: Pure soft-snow bliss. 150/122/140, 9.3 lbs

VERSATILITY: 2.5
POWER: 3.5

Lib Tech Pow NAS Recurve Skis

THE SELL: More points of contact for better edge hold. THE TEST: Snowboard maker Lib Tech has been in the ski game for a few years now. Like its other models, the NAS Recurve鈥擭AS stands for Narrow Ass Snowboards鈥攆eatures Magne-Traction*, wavy edges that offer seven points of contact with the snow. It鈥檚 a radical design, and the effect is noticeable. Testers were impressed with the Recurve鈥檚 tenacity and lively feel on firmer snow. 鈥淜nifed through anything,鈥� said one. A rockered tip made for 鈥渂obber-like flotation鈥� in softer snow. In sun crust, however, the Lib Tech was 鈥渢ossed into the next county.鈥� THE VERDICT: Snowboard technology that translates well into ski construction. 151/115/141, 10.2 lbs

VERSATILITY: 3.5
POWER: 3

*Lib Tech debuted its serrated-edge technology (called Magne-Traction) in its snowboards in 2005. Boardmakers Arbor, Nidecker, and Rome have since experimented with similar edge construction; the NAS Recurve marks its first appearance in skis.

Movement The Trust Skis

THE SELL: An all-condition ripper with a sweet spot the size of Texas. THE TEST: An energetic poplar core, a perfectly rockered powder-tip profile, and durable ABS sidewall construction combine in rare synchronicity. Testers were shocked at the stability and power of this ski in all conditions鈥攔ipping powder, busting crud, slicing hardpack鈥攂ut also at its ability to slow down and work through technical terrain with ease. 鈥淎n exceptionally balanced ski,鈥� stated one tester. It rides shorter than you鈥檇 think, however, so size up. THE VERDICT: As versatile as it is fun. 140/108/128, 8.8 lbs

VERSATILITY: 4
POWER: 4.5

DPS Wailer 112RP Pure SE Skis

THE SELL: A carbon-fiber, wood-core ski that鈥檚 more reactive, lighter, and more durable than a traditional fiberglass-metal, wood-core ski. THE TEST: DPS makes some lofty claims about the Pure SE, but testers were smitten. The fully tip- and tail-rockered ski floated through everything, while its traditional camber underfoot laid down a reliable edge on hardpack. Its bulbous nose surfed over chop, and true to DPS鈥檚 claims, it was one of the most energetic skis we tested. Also available in a cheaper (and heavier) carbon-fiberglass layup, the Wailer 112RP Hybrid ($799). THE VERDICT: Pricey, but tons of fun. 141/112/127, 6.5 lbs

VERSATILITY: 4
POWER: 3

Voile Charger Skis

THE SELL: An American-made powder pig. THE TEST: Light, nimble, versatile, and entertaining, the rocker-tipped Voile Charger lives up to its name in nearly every respect. Built in the USA, at the foot of Utah鈥檚 Wasatch Range, this aspen-cored ski was tailor-made for hunting down fresh snow. It shows. 鈥淩ails in all conditions, and can be skied equally effectively at speed or casually,鈥� gushed one tester. It was a bit sluggish in technical terrain, and multiple testers noted that it preferred longer turns and wide-open spaces to tight trees. THE VERDICT: Makes us wish we lived closer to the Wasatch Range. 137/112/126, 8.1 lbs

VERSATILITY: 4
POWER: 3

The post The 7 Best Backcountry Skis of 2012 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Black Diamond Custom Boots

While the Custom鈥檚 stiffest-in-class shell remains unchanged, practically everything else is new. The liner has a plastic tongue shield to help distribute shin pressure, there鈥檚 foil underfoot for greater warmth, and a new Boa closure system and articulated design allow for greater range of motion while touring. The verdict: still tough, less rough. 9 lbs

TAGS: big mountain, warm

Garmont Voodoo Boots

The Voodoo鈥檚 three smartly placed buckles allow for unprecedented range of motion on the uptrack. The shell has been pre-punched in all the right places to accommodate a wide range of feet. And it had the best walk mode in the test, hands down. Add it all up and you鈥檝e got what one tester dubbed 鈥渢he Cadillac of touring tele boots.鈥� 8 lbs

TAGS: great walk mode, fits all feet

Scarpa Terminator X Pro Boots

Scarpa鈥檚 designers ditched the overlap liner in favor of a more traditional alpine tongue on the new TX Pro. They also used denser foam (for better turn initiation), redesigned the power strap, and reengineered the walk-mode mechanism to make it easier to use with a gloved hand. No wonder testers deemed it their favorite all-mountain boot. 7.5 lbs

TAGS: serious forward lean, NTN-compatible

Salomon Quest 14 Ski Boot

Built with an overlap shell design, the Quest 14 has three buckles and a wide powder strap for a moderately stiff but consistent upper flex range that significantly reduces the potential for shin bang. But the kicker is the supercomfy walk mode, which makes it perfect for resort-based skiers who often hike for better turns. 9.3 lbs

TAGS: ALPINE-BOOT PERFORMANCE, WALK MODE

Scarpa Mastraele Boots

The Mastraele impressed testers with its balance of uphill ergonomics, downhill control, and daylong comfort. With 40 degrees of cuff rotation, the low-profile shell is as nimble on the skin track as it is over scree. Flex (both overall and lateral) is smooth and precise but not as stiff as Dynafit鈥檚 slightly heavier Titan Ultralight. 6.8 lbs

TAGS: billy-goating, ultralight

Dynafit Titan Ultralight Boots

Last year鈥檚 Titan was a tester favorite for its impressive weight-to-power ratio. With the new Ultralight, Dynafit shaved nearly a pound from the boot, mostly by using a slightly softer, less dense plastic. It鈥檚 not quite as powerful as the original, but a Pebax-carbon blend in the heel booster gives it plenty of oomph to drive even the plumpest skis. Fits narrower feet best. 7.5 lbs

TAGS: all mountain, tech fittings

The post The 6 Best Backcountry Ski Boots of 2012 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.