While the collective jury still is out as to whether Rottefella’s New Telemark Norm (NTN) bindings are the final word in the free-heeled interface debate, there has been no shortage of chatter among knee-dropping disciples in search of an answer.
It seems many among the telemark-turning masses remain unsatisfied with the industry standard otherwise known as “cable bindings.” Someone is trying new things, which is nice, but buying into the NTN binding system isn’t cheap.
At $350 for bindings and brakes alone, you’re likely to be out about a grand after picking up the requisite boots (currently only Scarpa and Crispi offer compatible models). What you get in return is a direct connection from the ball of your foot (not your heel) to your ski with resistance that can be adjusted between a low-friction touring mode and powerful downhill performance with ease. The 4- pound bindings feature a release mechanism and, though it’s not a true step-in, it’s as close as any serious contender has come.
If you’re keen on achieving a new standard of downhill performance right now, the NTN may offer the response you’ve been waiting for.
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