#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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#7 on this list
MTN Summit 12 BR
Salomon
The Salomon MTN Summit 12 BR is built for backcountry skiers who want the safety and convenience of a full-featured touring clamp without incurring a severe weight penalty. Positioned as an upgraded, user-friendly evolution in the MTN series, it includes integrated ski brakes and refined heel engineering. It frequently ranks as a top-tier alternative in expert head-to-head reviews due to its balance of downhill security and trail efficiency. The MTN Summit 12 distinguishes itself with an adjustable heel release mechanism covering both lateral and vertical axes, eliminating the swappable U-spring system found on older designs. It also incorporates a heel flex track that allows the binding to slide backward as the ski flexes under load. This prevents binding pinch, smooths out turn transitions, and keeps release values consistent when driving hard through uneven backcountry snow. The integrated brakes lock cleanly in walk mode with a simple lever. While it climbs efficiently, the added brake hardware and adjustment tracks make it heavier than stripped-down mountaineering units. Skiers looking to shave grams down to the bare minimum will prefer pure pin models. However, for backcountry travelers seeking a single reliable touring setup with modern release behavior and clean ski-brake handling, the MTN Summit 12 is a well-rounded contender. **Highlights** - Calibrated release value adjustment up to DIN 12 - Heel track elasticity maintains consistent release under ski flex - Factory-integrated ski brakes with positive walk-mode locking - Refined toe geometry with guides for smooth boot alignment - Purpose-built climbing risers easily manipulated with a pole **Watch-outs** - Added hardware increases weight over stripped-down tech clamps - Plastic components require care when clearing heavy ice buildup - Retains pin-style firmness with limited high-speed dampening
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Griffon 13 | MTN Summit 12 BR |
|---|---|---|
| Binding Category | Downhill Alpine | Backcountry Tech / Pin |
| DIN Range | 4 - 13 | — |
| Weight Per Pair | Approximately 2,060 g | — |
| Sole Compatibility | Alpine (ISO 5355), GripWalk (ISO 23223) | — |
| Approximate Price | $300 | $630 |
| Release Range | — | Adjustable DIN 6 to 12 |
| Brake System | — | Factory-integrated ski brakes |
| Flex Compensation | — | Active heel track elasticity |
| Climbing Aids | — | Dual risers with flat walk mode |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
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
MTN Summit 12 BR
- Independent vertical and lateral release adjustments up to DIN 12
- Active heel flex track prevents binding pinch during hard ski flex
- Integrated ski brakes lock cleanly into walk mode with a simple lever
- Molded toe alignment aids ensure quick, frustration-free step-in
- Noticeably heavier than stripped-down mountaineering pin bindings
- Pin-style connection transmits vibration on firm resort hardpack
- Heel track and brake assembly require vigilance against ice packing
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.