Ski touring bindings · Test magazine 2024
Tech talk with Frieder Schnaidt, MARKER
Product Line Manager at Marker Germany GmbH · Print page 109
Who is Frieder Schnaidt? Product Line Manager at MARKER
Frieder Schnaidt has been Product Line Manager at Marker Deutschland GmbH since 2022. He is passionate about snow sports, particularly skiing. For him, the mountains offer peace, freedom and inspiration. In the BACKLINE 2024 test magazine, he discusses developments in MARKER ski touring bindings, as well as safety, maintenance and opportunities to try them out.
The focus is on the Alpinist Free, a new option within the Alpinist family. Schnaidt describes the wider baseplate at the toe and heel, designed to improve power transmission and downhill feel. Another addition is the Marker Performance Booster: this replaceable contact plate mounts on the brake and closes the gap between the boot sole and the binding at the heel. The direct contact is intended to improve power transmission to the ski. Schnaidt cites the dynamic ski touring market as a reason to keep developing the range and new technologies.
On safety, Schnaidt explains that MARKER tests every individual component under various conditions during development, including UV exposure and resistance to breakage. He recommends servicing by a qualified specialist retailer, generally after the season. Users should also occasionally check their bindings for visible damage. For consumer testing, he points to test festivals in the Alps, where different bindings can be tried in one day, as well as ski rental shops.
How do the latest models of Marker ski touring bindings differ from previous versions?
The Alpinist Free is a new option in the Marker Alpinist family. It boasts the familiar construction and compelling features of a conventional Alpinist, but additionally features a new, widened base plate on the toe and heel, which benefits power transmission and a generally improved downhill feel. In addition, we have equipped the Alpinist Free with the innovative Marker Performance Booster – an exchangeable step plate that can be easily mounted on the brake. It closes the gap between the boot sole and the binding in the heel area, and the direct contact ensures improved power transmission to the ski for convincing downhill performance.
How are Marker bindings tested to ensure their durability and safety under extreme conditions?
Safety and durability of our bindings are Marker's top priorities. That's why Marker tests every single component of each binding during its development for all possible influences such as UV exposure or break resistance under various conditions.
Is Marker working on further differentiation of ski touring models and on new technologies / innovations?
The ski touring market is very dynamic and vibrant. This compels Marker to continue working on its collection and to constantly develop new technologies. This way, we always offer our customers the ideal companion under all conditions.
What maintenance does Marker recommend for existing ski touring bindings?
Since a binding is a very technical and safety-critical component, we recommend maintenance by a qualified specialist dealer. This is usually sufficient after the season. Additionally, one should also check their binding periodically for any visible damage. This way, nothing stands in the way of a successful ski tour!
What testing opportunities are available for end-users for Marker ski touring bindings?
The easiest way to test a Marker binding is to participate in one of the many “Testivals” in the Alpine region. There, you have the opportunity to try out different bindings directly on the same day. Alternatively, a ski rental shop is, of course, also an option.
