Telemark Bindings

The telemark binding: It is the connecting piece between skis and boots, the detail that makes it a telemark ski! To many, telemarking is all about freedom. Freedom in the mountains and in nature, but also freedom of your heel and in your movements. Simply, because in telemarking, other than in alpine skiing, the heel is free. And this is thanks to the binding. By the way, telemarking can be done anywhere, be it on-piste, freeride or touring!   

The telemark binding: NTN vs. 75mm

In telemark bindings, there are two different norms: NTN, standing for “New Telemark Norm” and 75mm.

75mm: This is the original telemark binding. The toe pieces hold the boot with a 75mm wide extension. Springs are built into the binding, fixed onto the heel, creating a cable-pull. Generally, these bindings are a bit cheaper than NTN ones.

NTN: The NTN binding is the newer system, which is why boots and bindings of this system are being continously improved. The binding has a couple of advantages. It is very durable and stiffer torsionally. Meaning, that the binding is more stable to the sides, which leads to increased control.

Skitouring can also be done with telemark bindings

For this to work, the binding needs to have touring functions, which can be the case with both NTN and 75mm bindings. But make sure you have all your safety equipment together! Avalanche transceiver, shovel and avalanche probe are crucial when going off-piste and it’s best if you also take your airbag backpack with you!