Testing Out the Fritschi Tecton Ski Touring Binding
Earlier this year, I heard that the Fritschi Tecton offered unparalleled downhill performance and safety release features unlike any other ski touring binding. So, I did a little research and decided to try the Tecton on my touring setup. Fritschi hails this binding as their 'Freeride' binding, as opposed to the touring oriented Fritschi Vipec Evo. I classify both as comparable to the new Dynafit Radical lines, Marker Kingpin, and G3 Ion 12. The Tecton and Kingpin are in the same class in terms of heel style: that of an alpine style which would categorize these as “hybrid” touring bindings.
This being my second season removed from an ACL reconstruction, I was attracted to the elastic release. This alpine-binding type of release is a huge step forward in safety and something to consider when looking at your tour binding options. The Tecton's release from the toe and heel is best in class and unmatched by any other binding on the market.
Mounted the Fritschi Tecton to a Kastle TX98
While trying the Frischi Tecton, I wanted to answer the following questions:
- Will the downhill performance live up to the hype?
- Can I operate the binding with a ski pole, not only changing the riser heights but also able to change between ski/tour modes?
- How does this binding hold up to long-term durability?
In Lou Dawson's 2018 Tecton review on wildsnow.com he said:
“Out of the box weight: with 100 mm brake and screws, 678 grams. What’s that mean? Compare to another major brand “freeride” tech binding with brake but without the alpine-like heel, at 642 grams. Only 36 grams (1.3 ounces) for that impressive Tecton heel unit? That’s some mighty high-level engineering.” It was time to find out just how 'high level'.
Beautiful views on the way up
On Snow with the Fritschi Tecton
Testing Locations: Due to limited early season snow, testing was limited to Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands
Conditions: Groomers, bumps, powder, chop
Ski: Kastle TX98 188 cm
Comparison Note: I skied the Kastle TX98 with Dynafit Radical ST 1 all of last year.
Uphill Performance
No different than any other touring binding in terms of functionality. I found the highest of the two risers to be difficult to operate with a ski pole until I tried pushing the basket forward instead of attempting to pull the basket forward (see images below). I did not notice the additional weight. If you were coming from an ultralight skimo setup it would be noticeable. While I think you could certainly cover big days with this set of bindings, you would not do the Grand Traverse.
Toe Step-In
One of the knocks on previous Fritschi models was the step in at the toe. When these bindings are flat on the ground, you cannot miss. If the surface is sloped it is more difficult but I would put the success rate around 85%. All-in-all, I found it to be able to same as using a Dynafit product, if not easier.
Transitions
The biggest advantage these bindings have over others on the market (including products releasing next fall) is you can transition from tour mode to ski mode and back without removing your skis. Obviously applying skins would be difficult with your skis on, but going to ski mode to tour (without taking the ski off) is ideal for long flat exits. Perfect for exiting Maroon Creek Road after descending the Highlands Ridge or a classic line in the Indian Peaks!
Downhill Performance
Performs above its weight class, comparable my Marker Barons. The difference in downhill performance against the Dynafit Radical 1 is apparent. In the conditions I skied these bindings so far, I would not have been comfortable on the R1.
The view from PHQ
Our 2018 Fritschi Tecton Conclusions
The Fritschi Tecton may be the holy grail of ski touring bindings. I am sold on the downhill process of these bindings and quickly falling in love with the ability to transition my from ski to tour mode with poles. The obvious question I have, and everyone else who has reviewed them, is how will they stand up to abuse? Time will tell. I would also like to test these bindings on a bigger ski to see how they handle. I will share my findings over the course of the season. Pray for snow!