No, while a standard exists for traditional alpine bindings, compatibility can vary depending on the boot sole type and binding design.
Understanding Ski Binding Standards and Compatibility
The world of ski bindings involves standards designed to ensure safety and performance, particularly concerning how the boot interfaces with the binding. However, the landscape isn't a single, monolithic standard that covers all bindings and all boots universally.
Traditional alpine bindings meet a standard called ISO 9462. This international standard is crucial as it specifies performance parameters for the binding itself and sets out the dimensions for the boot soles that work with these bindings. The goal is to ensure reliable release values and proper function.
Different Types of Compatibility
While ISO 9462 governs traditional setups, the introduction of new boot sole technologies has led to different compatibility categories:
- ISO 5355 (Traditional Alpine): This is the classic alpine boot sole profile. The reference states that if a binding is not designated as MNC, GripWalk, or WTR compatible, it will only work with ISO 5355 soles.
- MNC (Multi Norm Certified): Bindings with this designation are designed to be compatible with multiple boot sole types, including traditional ISO 5355, GripWalk, and sometimes touring soles.
- GripWalk: This is a specific boot sole design featuring a rocking profile and high-traction pads for easier walking. Bindings designated as GripWalk compatible (or MNC) are required to work correctly with these soles.
- WTR (Walk to Ride): Similar to GripWalk, WTR is a boot sole technology designed for easier walking. Bindings designated WTR (or MNC) work with these soles.
Key Takeaway: While a standard (ISO 9462) exists for traditional alpine bindings and boot soles (ISO 5355), newer boot technologies (GripWalk, WTR) require bindings with specific compatibility designations (MNC, GripWalk, WTR) to function correctly and safely. Using an incompatible boot and binding combination can compromise safety and release performance.
It's essential to check the compatibility labels on both your ski boots and bindings to ensure they are designed to work together.
