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