If you’re chasing the freedom of heel-free turns, your binding choice can make or break your day on the snow. Telemark bindings are the critical link between your boots and skis, affecting everything from power transfer to touring efficiency. With so many options out there, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down the best telemark bindings on the market, from lightweight 3-pin setups to advanced NTN systems. Whether you’re a seasoned free-heeler or just starting out, you’ll find clear, practical reviews to help you choose the perfect binding for your style and terrain.
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3-Pin Cable Traverse Telemark Bindings by Voile
Best forLight touring and hut trips
- Cable-free ascents reduce weight
- Secondary 3-pin adds stability
ConsiderNot for aggressive skiing
Twenty Two Designs Lynx Telemark Binding, Blue, Large,
Best forNTN skiers wanting touring efficiency
- 80+ degrees free touring
- Easy step in and out
ConsiderLimited to NTN boots
Atomic Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings (Bent Chetler, D100mm)
Best forAlpine freeride with GripWalk boots
- Low center of gravity
- Vibration-absorbing heel
ConsiderNot a telemark binding
Voile HD Mountaineer 3-Pin Telemark Bindings
Best forUndulating terrain and simplicity
- Streamlined, light design
- Easy to carry
ConsiderNo climbing aid
Voile 3-Pin Cable Telemark 75mm Binding
Best forResort and backcountry versatility
- Durable aluminum toe
- Versatile use
ConsiderClimbing bars not included
Voile Switchback X2 Telemark Binding Ski bindings SHRT Black
Best forLight touring with climbing wires
- 25% stiffer cartridges
- Longer steel toe plate
ConsiderHeavier than some
Atomic Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings (Bent Chetler, D90mm)
Best forCarving on 90mm skis
- Low profile toe
- Vibration damping heel
ConsiderAlpine only
Tyrolia Attack 14 GripWalk Alpine Ski Bindings (Red, 110mm)
Best forLightweight alpine resort skiing
- Low stand height
- Lightweight at 865g
ConsiderNot for telemark
ProSSS Ski Binding Drill Bit 3.5 x 9.5mm, M2 High-Speed Steel Mounting Bit …
Best forDIY binding mounting and maintenance
- Precise size for bindings
- Durable M2 steel
ConsiderOnly one drill bit
Twenty Two Designs Lynx Telemark Binding, Blue, Small, LS
Best forNTN touring for smaller boots
- 80+ degrees free touring
- Easy step in and out
ConsiderLimited to NTN boots
Voile 3-Pin Cable Traverse – Light Touring Essential
The Voile 3-Pin Cable Traverse is a classic choice for skiers who prioritize simplicity and weight savings. Its cable-free ascent mode means you can tour uphill without the drag of a cable, while the cable-assisted descent gives you the power and control you need on the way down. The secondary 3-pin support adds stability, making it a reliable companion for light touring adventures.
This binding is specifically designed for light boots, whether you’re in leather or 2-buckle plastic. That makes it an excellent option for hut-to-hut trips or mellow meadow skipping where every ounce matters. If you want a no-fuss setup that keeps your pack light and your turns smooth, this is a solid pick.
- Cable-free ascents reduce weight
- Secondary 3-pin adds stability
- Ideal for light boots
- Not for aggressive skiing
- Limited power transfer
22 Designs Lynx Large – NTN Touring Power
The 22 Designs Lynx in Large is a game-changer for NTN skiers who want a binding that tours as well as it skis. With 80+ degrees of resistance-free touring, you’ll glide uphill with minimal effort, saving energy for the descent. The spring-loaded dual-height climber lets you switch between climbing modes quickly, adapting to changing terrain without stopping.
Step-in and step-out are refreshingly easy, which is a huge plus when you’re fumbling with gloves on a windy ridge. This binding is designed for Scarpa and Crispi boots sized 26.5 and up, so make sure your boot sole length matches. If you’re after a high-performance NTN binding that doesn’t compromise on touring efficiency, the Lynx delivers.
- 80+ degrees free touring
- Easy step in and out
- Dual-height climber
- Limited to NTN boots
- Large size only for big feet
Atomic Strive 14 GW (D100) – Alpine Precision
The Atomic Strive 14 GW is a high-performance alpine binding, but it’s a worthy mention for telemark skiers who use a locked-heel setup for certain conditions. Its DIN range of 5-14 offers adjustability for a wide range of skiers, and the Auto GripWalk compatibility ensures it works with modern boots. The LDN toe design places the binding closer to the ski, giving you better snow feel and response.
The 3-part heel absorbs vibrations, reducing chatter at speed while ensuring a clean release when you need it. This binding is built for the Bent Chetler ski with a 100mm waist, making it a great match for freeride-oriented skiers. If you’re looking for a binding that excels inbounds and in the backcountry with a locked heel, this is a strong option.
- Low center of gravity
- Vibration-absorbing heel
- GripWalk compatible
- Not a telemark binding
- Requires alpine boots
Voile HD Mountaineer – Simple and Light
The Voile HD Mountaineer is all about uncomplicated design and lightweight performance. Its streamlined construction strips away unnecessary bulk, making it easy to carry on long approaches. The binding is ideal for undulating terrain where you need smooth, predictable performance without fiddly adjustments.
This 3-pin binding is perfect for skiers who value simplicity and reliability. Whether you’re crossing rolling hills or making quick laps on a mellow slope, the HD Mountaineer delivers a clean, direct feel. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense binding that won’t weigh you down, this is a great choice.
- Streamlined, light design
- Easy to carry
- Smooth performance
- No climbing aid
- Basic features
Voile 3-Pin Cable 75mm – Classic Resort Workhorse
The Voile 3-Pin Cable 75mm is a time-tested binding that handles both backcountry and resort duty. Its 6000 series tempered aluminum toe piece is built to last, and the claimed weight of 1 lb 13 oz keeps things manageable. This binding is recommended for telemark backcountry and resort use, making it a versatile addition to your quiver.
Note that climbing bars are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you plan to tour. The 75mm duckbill compatibility works with a wide range of telemark boots, giving you flexibility. If you want a durable, classic binding that performs across different settings, this is a reliable option.
- Durable aluminum toe
- Versatile use
- Reasonable weight
- Climbing bars not included
- 75mm only
Voile Switchback X2 – Improved Touring Performance
The Voile Switchback X2 takes the beloved Switchback design and adds meaningful upgrades. The cartridges are 25% stiffer, giving you more power transfer and a snappier feel on the descent. The 3mm longer full wrap-around steel toe plate enhances durability and stability, especially on hard snow.
This binding is built for light telemark touring, with a touring mode that lets you flip the heel for efficient ascents. The climbing wires offer two different heights, so you can adjust to the steepness of the terrain. If you’re looking for a binding that balances touring efficiency with downhill performance, the Switchback X2 is a strong contender.
- 25% stiffer cartridges
- Longer steel toe plate
- Two climbing heights
- Heavier than some
- May be stiff for beginners
Atomic Strive 14 GW (D90) – Narrow Waist Alpine Option
The Atomic Strive 14 GW in the D90 version is designed for skis with a 90mm waist, offering a more precise feel for carving and firm snow. Its DIN range of 5-14 and Auto GripWalk compatibility make it a flexible choice for many skiers. The LDN toe keeps the binding low, improving snow contact and response.
Like its wider sibling, this binding features a 3-part heel that absorbs vibrations and ensures reliable release. It’s a solid alpine binding for those who want a locked-heel option for resort days or when conditions demand extra control. If you’re a telemark skier who occasionally uses alpine gear, this is a dependable pick.
- Low profile toe
- Vibration damping heel
- GripWalk compatible
- Alpine only
- Not for wide skis
Tyrolia Attack 14 GW – Lightweight Alpine Performer
The Tyrolia Attack 14 GripWalk is a lightweight alpine binding that stands out for its low stand height of 17mm, which improves power transfer and feel. With a DIN range of 4-14, it suits a broad range of skiers, and the GripWalk compatibility ensures it works with modern boot soles. At just 865 grams, it’s one of the lighter options in its class.
This binding is designed for skiers who want a responsive, reliable alpine setup. While it’s not a telemark binding, it’s a great choice if you’re building a quiver that includes both free-heel and fixed-heel setups. The red color adds a touch of style, and the performance is solid for resort skiing.
- Low stand height
- Lightweight at 865g
- GripWalk compatible
- Not for telemark
- Limited DIN range
ProSSS Drill Bit & Plugs – Mounting Essential
Mounting your telemark bindings correctly is crucial for safety and performance, and the ProSSS Ski Binding Drill Bit makes the job easier. The precise 3.5 x 9.5mm size ensures accurate depth and diameter, reducing the risk of damaging your skis. Made from M2 high-speed steel, it stays sharp and durable through multiple mounts.
The kit includes 30+ binding hole plugs, which are perfect for sealing old holes and preventing moisture from getting into your ski core. This is a must-have for anyone who mounts their own bindings or wants to maintain their skis properly. It’s compatible with alpine, telemark, and touring bindings, making it a versatile tool.
- Precise size for bindings
- Durable M2 steel
- Includes 30+ plugs
- Only one drill bit
- Not a full mounting kit
22 Designs Lynx Small – NTN Touring for Smaller Boots
The 22 Designs Lynx in Small is tailored for skiers with Scarpa and Crispi boots sized 26.0 and under, or Scott/Garmont boots up to 25.5. It offers the same 80+ degrees of resistance-free touring as the Large version, ensuring efficient uphill travel. The spring-loaded dual-height climber is easy to engage, even with gloves on.
Step-in and step-out are straightforward, which is a relief when you’re transitioning on a slope. This binding brings the same high-performance NTN touring experience to smaller boot sizes, so you don’t have to compromise. If you have smaller feet and want a top-tier touring binding, the Lynx Small is a fantastic option.
- 80+ degrees free touring
- Easy step in and out
- Dual-height climber
- Limited to NTN boots
- Small size only
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right telemark binding comes down to your boot type, skiing style, and terrain. Here are five key factors to consider before making your purchase.
- Binding Type: Telemark bindings come in two main types: 75mm (3-pin) and NTN. 75mm is traditional, with a duckbill boot, and is often lighter and cheaper. NTN (New Telemark Norm) offers better power transfer and a more secure feel, but requires NTN-specific boots. Choose based on your boot investment and performance needs.
- Boot Compatibility: Ensure the binding matches your boot sole and size. 75mm bindings fit 75mm duckbill boots, while NTN bindings require NTN boots. Check size charts, as some bindings have specific size breaks (e.g., 26.0 and under vs. 26.5 and up). A proper fit is critical for safety and performance.
- Touring Features: If you plan to tour, look for bindings with a touring mode that allows free heel movement, and climbing aids (wires or heels) for steep ascents. Some bindings offer 80+ degrees of free pivot, which reduces resistance and saves energy. Consider the ease of switching between modes.
- Weight and Durability: Weight affects your energy on the uphill, while durability affects longevity. Lightweight bindings are great for touring but may sacrifice some strength. Look for materials like tempered aluminum or steel toe plates for durability. Balance weight with your skiing style and terrain.
- Ski Width Compatibility: Bindings have different brake widths or mounting patterns. Ensure the binding is compatible with your ski's waist width. Some bindings are designed for specific widths (e.g., 90mm, 100mm, 110mm). Using a binding that's too narrow or wide can affect performance and safety.
Conclusion
Selecting the best telemark binding is a personal decision that hinges on your boot system, touring ambitions, and skiing preferences. From the lightweight Voile 3-Pin Cable Traverse for mellow tours to the powerful 22 Designs Lynx for NTN enthusiasts, there’s a binding for every type of free-heeler. Don’t forget the ProSSS drill bit if you’re mounting your own gear.
For most skiers, the Voile Switchback X2 offers a great balance of touring efficiency and downhill performance, while the 22 Designs Lynx is the top choice for NTN skiers who want the best in touring tech. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your boots and ski width, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the freedom of telemark skiing.
Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.