The Best Women’s Backcountry Bindings of 2013
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Voile Switchback X2 Telemark Bindings
BEST FOR: TELEMARK
In its second year, the X2, 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 “all-in-one combo” with “lateral stiffness on par with bigger bindings.” 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 Tour is similar to the Duke, Marker’s beefiest offering, in its alpine-inspired power transmission and responsiveness. It’s 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’s as easy to get in and out of as a traditional alpine binding. 4.5 lbs
Tourability: 3.5
Power: 3.5