Marker

Tour F12 EPF Alpine Touring Binding

Although the Marker Tour F12 Alpine Touring binding has left its resort-loving brothers and sisters in favor of fresh, backcountry lines, it still bears the crest and bloodline of the Marker Royal Family. For example, its EPF Extended Power Frame is found on the Duke and Baron for crazy-efficient power transmission on fatter skis. And it features the same Backcountry Technology with climbing ability that the Duke and Baron have. The hollow linkage heel, however, sheds weight for a speedy ascent, and the Triple Pivot Light toe has Teflon for reduced wear and also keeps weight at a minimum. This touring binding accommodates alpine and AT boots, so you don't need a full setup designated for both backcountry and in-resort.

The Tour F12 has a lower DIN range (4-12) than the burlier Duke and Baron, but it also is lighter-weight. And with its own set of powers just right for most tourers, it's frankly getting tired of the comparison.