#3 on this list
MTN Pure
Salomon
The Salomon MTN Pure is built for the traditional backcountry skier who values simplicity, durability, and foolproof field performance. Stripping out complicated brake linkages and delicate plastic triggers, the MTN Pure relies on an all-metal chassis and a proven dual-pin design. Broadly recommended by independent testing teams as a top-tier general backcountry workhorse, it hits an appealing middle ground between featherweight mountaineering clamps and heavy hybrid models. In the field, the MTN Pure excels because there is very little that can go wrong. It features a wide mounting pattern that delivers surprisingly direct power transfer to modern mid-fat backcountry skis. Step-in is intuitive thanks to built-in alignment guides on the toe wings that help line up tech fittings. The heel piece offers three climbing levels (flat, mid, high) accessible via a simple flip with a ski pole basket, eliminating the need to spin the entire heel housing around on the trail. The trade-off comes down to release adjustability and stopping hardware. The binding uses interchangeable U-shaped heel springs to alter vertical release tension, meaning you cannot dial in vertical values on a continuous screw scale. It also ships primarily set up for leashes rather than integrated brakes. For long-distance tours, spring ski mountaineering, and remote expeditions, its dead-simple reliability remains a massive asset. **Highlights** - Published weight of roughly 1 pound 4.8 ounces per binding - Wide mounting footprint enhances lateral power transfer - Convenient pole-operated climbing risers without spinning the heel - Integrated toe guides for easy boot step-in alignment - Tough metal construction with minimal moving failure points **Watch-outs** - Fixed vertical release calibrated by swapping out steel springs - Lacks integrated ski brakes in standard configuration (uses leashes) - Limited fore-aft boot length adjustment on the base plate
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#4 on this list
Backland Tour
Atomic
Sharing fundamental architecture with its platform siblings, the Atomic Backland Tour is aimed at backcountry tourers who want a stout, reliable pin binding without the bulk of freeride mechanisms. Weighing in at approximately 796 grams per pair, this unit targets the sweet spot for day-in, day-out touring setups. Testers frequently praise it for its bombproof field record, straightforward operation, and predictable downhill hold. The Backland Tour features an expansive base plate that anchors firmly into wider skis, reducing the dead spot beneath the foot and maximizing edge grip across icy sidehills. Its climbing risers are among the easiest to deploy in the category: you simply flip the flaps forward or back with a pole basket to choose between climbing heights, skipping the hassle of rotating the heel assembly mid-stride. Power transfer is crisp, providing sufficient feedback for technical terrain and variable snowpacks. Because it shares its design with minimalist traditional tech bindings, it relies on swappable heel forks rather than an independent spring screw to adjust vertical release. While it provides solid retention for aggressive uphill and downhill touring, it lacks the deep elasticity of heavier hybrid bindings, meaning high-speed chatter will transmit directly into your legs. For tourers wanting a dependable balance of weight and ruggedness, it remains a proven staple. **Highlights** - Published weight of roughly 796 grams per pair - Flip-style climbing risers operate quickly via ski pole basket - Broad mount pattern stabilizes skis over 90mm underfoot - Sturdy aluminum and steel construction resists trail abuse - Built-in alignment pegs guide boot pins for fast step-in **Watch-outs** - Vertical release adjustments require physically swapping U-springs - Minimal elastic travel produces a stiff ride on hardpack snow - Factory packaging often defaults to leashes over ski brakes
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Specs side by side
| Spec | MTN Pure | Backland Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Binding Category | Frameless Tech / Pin | — |
| Weight Per Pair | 1 lb 4.8 oz (approx. 590 g) | — |
| Materials | Forged Aluminum, Steel, Polymer | Forged aluminum and steel |
| Climbing Positions | Flat, Medium, High | — |
| Stopping System | Leashes standard (brakes optional) | — |
| Release System | Interchangeable U-shaped heel springs | — |
| Weight | — | 796 g per pair |
| Category | — | Pin / Tech Touring |
| Price | — | Around $680 |
| Mounting Pattern | — | Wide screw pattern |
| Climbing System | — | Dual flip-over risers |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
MTN Pure
- Forged aluminum chassis provides exceptional long-term structural durability.
- Pole-accessible heel risers eliminate the need to twist the heel tower on trail.
- Integrated toe guides ensure intuitive step-in alignment in deep snow.
- Wide mounting pattern provides solid leverage on mid-fat backcountry skis.
- Vertical release relies on fixed swappable U-springs rather than continuous dials.
- Comes standard with leashes; integrated brakes must be purchased separately.
- Baseplate track offers limited fore-aft adjustment for multiple boot sizes.
Backland Tour
- Clean flip-style climbing risers deploy quickly with a pole basket
- Generous mount pattern improves edge grip on mid-fat backcountry skis
- Sturdy metal construction resists long-term wear and impact
- Integrated toe alignment pegs simplify boot step-in
- Vertical release requires manually swapping physical heel U-springs
- Minimal suspension travel leads to a harsh ride on firm chatter
- Ski brakes are not always included in the base package
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