#5 on this list
Backland Summit 12 BR
Atomic
The Atomic Backland Summit 12 BR addresses the classic shortcomings of tech bindings by integrating modern release ergonomics and functional brakes into a lightweight frame. Designed for backcountry skiers who demand certified lateral and vertical release scales alongside true downhill retention, this binding weighs about 1 pound 13 ounces per pair with brakes included. It has earned strong recommendations from reviewers who want a complete, modern backcountry interface without stepping up to hybrid freeride weight. The centerpiece of the Backland Summit is its adjustable release mechanism, which allows users to dial in release values at the heel across a standard range without swapping internal parts. An integrated auto-locking brake system stays tucked out of the way while skinning and deploys automatically upon switching into ski mode. Crucially, Atomic engineered an elastic track into the heel to maintain consistent release values as the ski arcs and bends during high-load turns. While downhill dampening is notably improved over minimalist models, it remains a dedicated tech binding with rigid pin interfaces at the toe. It will not deliver the elastic forgiveness of a dedicated resort clamp. The brake mechanism, while functional, adds some mechanical complexity to keep clear of packed ice. For tourers seeking modern safety engineering in an authentic backcountry package, the Summit 12 hits the brief. **Highlights** - Published weight of roughly 1 pound 13 ounces per pair with brakes - Calibrated lateral and vertical release adjustments at the heel - Longitudinal heel elasticity compensates for active ski deflection - Integrated auto-locking ski brakes - Easy-to-use climbing risers for variable slope angles **Watch-outs** - Noticeably heavier than minimalist mountaineering bindings - Mechanical brake housing requires vigilance against ice buildup - Toe pins lack downhill elastic travel found in alpine models
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#6 on this list
Griffon 13
Marker
The Marker Griffon 13 is an undisputed benchmark in the traditional alpine resort category. Engineered specifically for downhill skiers who spend their days riding lifts, hammering groomers, and navigating off-piste chop, the Griffon 13 prioritizes retention security, elastic travel, and multi-directional release. Respected gear reviewers consistently rate it as the best overall binding for aggressive all-mountain resort skiing. The binding’s performance stems from its Triple Pivot Elite toe and Inter Pivot 3 heel. Together, they provide substantial elastic travel, meaning the binding can absorb hard impacts, landing shocks, and terrain vibrations without releasing prematurely. When a fall does occur, the mechanical release is reliable and predictable across varied fall vectors. The horizontal toe spring keeps swing weight low, while the stainless steel gliding plate accommodates both standard alpine and modern GripWalk boot soles seamlessly. The trade-offs are purely tied to its resort focus. At well over 2,000 grams per pair, it possesses zero touring capability—there is no walk mode or free-pivot touring mechanism. Stepping into the heel can also require significant downward leg force, particularly in deep soft snow. For dedicated resort skiers who demand uncompromised downhill protection and hard-charging power transfer, the Griffon 13 remains the standard. **Highlights** - Reliable DIN release range from 4 to 13 for intermediate to expert skiers - Generous elastic travel absorbs chatter and prevents pre-releases - Multi-norm compatibility accommodates traditional alpine and GripWalk soles - Robust toe and heel housing built to withstand heavy resort abuse - Horizontal toe spring concentrates mass close to the ski center **Watch-outs** - Zero touring functionality; strictly for downhill lift-served skiing - Heel step-in requires firm downward pressure, tricky in powder - Heavy total system weight compared to backcountry gear
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Backland Summit 12 BR | Griffon 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Binding Type | Pin-tech touring binding | — |
| Weight per Pair | 1 lb. 13 oz. (with brakes) | — |
| Release Range | Adjustable up to 12 (lateral and vertical) | — |
| Elastic Travel | Longitudinal heel track compensation | — |
| Brake System | Integrated auto-locking ski brakes | — |
| MSRP | Approximately $725 | — |
| Binding Category | — | Downhill Alpine |
| DIN Range | — | 4 - 13 |
| Weight Per Pair | — | Approximately 2,060 g |
| Sole Compatibility | — | Alpine (ISO 5355), GripWalk (ISO 23223) |
| Approximate Price | — | $300 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Backland Summit 12 BR
- Independent lateral and vertical release adjustments up to 12
- Longitudinal heel track compensates for ski flex to prevent pre-release
- Reliable auto-locking brake mechanism streamlines transitions
- Competitive weight profile for a fully featured touring binding
- Rigid toe interface transmits chatter on hardpack snow
- Brake housing and heel track are prone to packing with wet snow
- High price point sits at the top end of the tech binding market
Griffon 13
- Predictable mechanical release across varied fall angles and terrain
- Generous lateral elasticity absorbs heavy chatter and prevents pre-releases
- Broad mounting platform facilitates solid power transfer to wide skis
- Compatible with both traditional alpine and GripWalk boot sole standards
- Heel unit requires significant downward force to engage in deep snow
- Completely lacks touring functionality, limiting use to lift-served terrain
- Heavier system weight compared to modern hybrid and touring bindings
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