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In article ,
Bill Tuthill wrote:
Sorry to ask this question in possibly inappropriate newsgroups,
but if I were buying a new pair of downhill skis, for use both in
lift-served areas and the backcountry, why would I not want to get
an AT binding such as the Silveretta 555? Cost isn't much higher
than a regular downhill ski binding, it's lighter weight, and much
more flexible due to heel release.

_ I don't think you'll be happy using the Silveretta as a resort
binding. It's just not meant to take the abuse possible in a day
of lift served skiing. I own Silveretta 500's and while I really
like them for BC skiing, I don't think they would last long at a
resort and I don't think they would stand up to the forces of a
alpine ski boot. They are meant to work with softer AT boots.


Are the current crop of downhill bindings safer? More durable?


_ I'd say the answer to both is yes. Some AT bindings are getting
close, ( NAXO, Fritschi Freeride) and I think for a lot of skiers
AT bindings would be just fine as a resort binding. You certainly
see a lot of people on AT bindings at resorts these days. I just
bought a pair of NAXO's and I won't be buying any more alpine
bindings... It is a sacrifice of some safety and durablity,
but for me I think it's a worth while exchange. While I don't
think the NAXO's are as safe as current alpine bindings, they're
probably a lot safer than anything I skiied on in the 70's and
80's.

_ Booker C. Bense


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