Comments on: Gear: Marker Tour Bindings on K2 SideKicks

By: AK.Joe

AK.Joe — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:39:24 +0000

I noticed Amy was using tech soles in Marker AT bindings: There is great divergence of opinion about how switching between DIN and tech soles in Marker AT bindings affects the release values.

Every binding tech I ask gives me a different answer. Given the large volume of Marker AT bindings and new interchangeable sole options (ie. Tecnica Cochise) can you provide advice on this question of better boot pack traction vs. reduction of consistent release.

Many thanks

By: Lou Dawson

Lou Dawson — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 12:29:00 +0000

She’s doing some mechanized skiing and is new to ski touring, so we figured a more alpine like binding would be a good entry with less fiddle factor. If she starts doing a bunch of ski touring, we’ll set her up with some tech bindings for sure!

By: Dirk

Dirk — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 06:20:35 +0000

Why such a burly setup? I thought Lou “king of dynafit” woulda convinced you to get some tech binders.

By: Ronald Cassiani

Ronald Cassiani — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 02:20:36 +0000

The softer wax is used as a binder wax. The harder wax will adhere to the ski longer if the base wax is warmer. Conversely hard wax base will not accept softer wax over it.

By: Maciej

Maciej — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 23:33:29 +0000

One tip-several coats of soft (warm temp) wax don’t do much to harden a new ski base. The best way to prep new bases is a coat (or 2) of molybdenum wax, followed by a couple of coats of Swix CH4 (or equivalent) wax. Cold temp waxes are harder, and harden the bases of skis. Warm temp waxes are soft, and (literally) soften bases.

If it’s going to be warmer out, you can finish your base prep with an appropriate temp. wax.

Otherwise, neat article. I’ve worked at alpine shops (and work at a nordic ski shop now), and it’s rare for someone to have stuff like jigs and a tester foot in their home shop.