That's right SnowMagineers, the folks from 22 Designs has done it again. These are the guy's who make the Hammerhead telemark binding. This year they came out with their own version of a free pivot binding.....The Axl. A telemark binding with free pivot allows for the binding springs to not be engaged for uphill skinning. All this means is less energy used skinning up hill so more fun skiing down hill.
Yesterday I was in a meeting with the 22 Designs Rep (Tim). He had many good things to say about the Axl. The beta testing last year washed out all the bugs and it's ready to go. The switch to put the binding into free pivot is pretty slick and easy to do with a ski pole. Tim also made mention that you can get a 10% softer spring and a 20% stiffer spring.
Here are some points from the 22 Designs web site:
-The first free-pivot binding with three cable guide positions. Optimize your bindings for your skiing style and snow conditions.
-Super durable: 2000 lb test cable attachments won't break, toe piece forces transmitted steel-to-steel.
-Over 2" of spring travel for smooth action and durability.
-The spring-loaded HammerHeel is the easiest to use climber available; Flip it up or down with your ski pole. Climbing bails available in 3 sizes.
-Cables routed underfoot for maximum control; plastic boots flex at the bellows instead of tip-toeing.
-Riser height: 1.1" or 28mm at rear, with a 2 degree ramp.
-Pivot location: directly under pin-line.
-Weight: just under 4 lb per pair, including climbers.
-Size Small for Mondo 25 and under, Large for 25.5 and up.
-2 Year Warranty.
-Made in the USA.
Tim said the binding should be available starting in Mid December. It does look like 22 Designs had hit a home run with this binding. Powerful yet free pivot, this binding should do everything you need in a telemark binding.
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