OUR REVIEW MARKER KING PIN
MANUFACTURER’S OPINION MARKER KING PIN
The KINGPIN from Marker redefines the standards in insert binding technology: This innovative and high-performance ski touring binding is the first insert binding in the world to receive the DIN ISO 13992:2007 certification from the famous German organization TÜV. The KINGPIN was developed around 3 axes: Performance through optimal power transmission; Protection and safety; Ease of use both in ski and walk mode.
Heel piece: Maximum power transmission and direct energy transfer.
Unlike traditional insert bindings, the revolutionary construction of the KINGPIN heel piece offers ideal power transmission: the “XXL Power Transmitter” is designed with wide contact points to wrap the shoe as much as possible. This eliminates any play that might exist when initiating a turn. Since the impulse given in a ski turn largely comes from the heel, the KINGPIN heel piece allows for direct power transfer. Furthermore, the screw base is quite wide across the entire binding (38mm). The heel piece can be switched from walk to ski mode very quickly, simply, and without unbinding, even in critical situations on steep slopes.
Toe piece: 6 springs for better safety and performance.
The “Six Pack Power Spring” are high-quality steel springs. This allows for better energy absorption compared to traditional 4-screw inserts. One of the main arguments of the KINGPIN is that when the binding’s toe piece is in ski mode, the skier will have the necessary safety and support to ski with full power. The release force of the toe piece is therefore higher than a traditional insert binding, preventing accidental releases. The guide points that allow for extremely easy binding are adjustable to fit all touring boots. The crampon support is integrated into the toe piece. As with the heel piece, the front piece has a wide screw base of 38mm.
Climbing aids: Simple to use
The KINGPIN offers 3 climbing aids integrated into the heel piece: 0°, 7°, and 13°. These aids are easily manipulated with the tip or handle of a pole. They are positioned at the center of the heel piece for easy and quick access.
Brakes: 2 Brakes for all ski widths.
The KINGPIN is available with two different brakes: one for skis from 75 to 100mm at the waist, and one for skis from 100 to 125mm. The brake automatically locks in walk mode and unlocks immediately when switching back to ski mode. The brakes are self-retracting along the binding, eliminating the classic problem of the brake extending further than the ski, which can be very inconvenient on slopes. The brakes can be easily changed and removed to have a simple AFD plate.
FEATURES MARKER KING PIN
- DIN: 5-10 for the King Pin 10 or 6-13 for the King Pin 13
- Play compensation: yes
- Weight: 1430g
- Length adjustment: 25mm
- Climbing aids: 2
- Price: 540€
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