Ski touring: where pin bindings come into their own

Shopping for touring skis but aren’t sure which binding type is the right one for you? Here you’ll find an overview.

There are basically two different types of bindings for touring skis:

• Frame bindings: the ski boots are fixed in the binding at the front and back. You lift the entire binding with every step as you climb. This type of binding is very robust. We therefore recommend these bindings for freeriding in particular.

• Pin bindings: the ski boots are only fixed at the front as you climb. Your heel remains free, so you only lift the boot as you move forward. This helps you save energy. Pin bindings are also relatively light.

We’ll take a look at pin bindings in more detail below. They have become very popular and are now the standard for almost every ski tour. Sales advisor Michi recently met up with some colleagues from Höhenfieber on the Hagelstock in the Lidernen area. In this video, he explains the advantages of pin bindings and how they work.

Other advantages of pin bindings for touring skis

Pin bindings offer a high level of comfort when walking and are lightweight compared to alternative systems. This binding type for touring skis ensures that the pivot point is at the ball of the foot. This resembles the foot’s natural rolling motion. Pin bindings also feature a safe-release mechanism when you fall. In addition to lightweight versions, sturdier models of the system are also available. We recommend these for downhill-oriented tours in particular.

Ski tour: the right preparation

Ski touring can be a wonderful experience with the right knowledge, the right training and the right attention and care. But you’ll need to learn these skills first before you embark on your maiden independent tour. Whether you book a ski touring course, for example, with our partner Höhenfieber, or organise a tour with a mountain guide. We also recommend regularly brushing up on and even expanding your knowledge. For example, you can also attend our avalanche information evenings, where professionals give useful tips on how to better assess avalanche risks.

And finally, now that you’ve acquired all these skills, you won’t want to freeze or sweat on your ski tour, which isn’t always easy – the ascent will almost always make you break out in a sweat. For adventures on yourtouring skis, werecommend wearing layered clothing.