The new Rottefella Back Country binding system

[Redmountain]

Just stumbled over this on the internet at xcskiforum.com of all places! Almost unbelieveable I haven't seen these talked about anywhere else. We're seeing a totally new boot/binding system which Rottefella says will be presented at ISPO in 2019. But that's passed now, so something must have come in the way.

But I guess this is the binding Crister at Åsnes has been talking about in the Åsnes thread he's going to test this winter.

So guys, take a look at the pictures, what do you think. Do we see a new killer binding for XCD?

[Leo Tasker]

Looks interesting, hopefully it's backwards compatible with older skis rather than requiring a whole new setup. Will be a while before I need new boots anyway so I can wait to see if it takes off or fades away...

[FrenchFred]

It looks like it's very close from the dynafit binding system for AT...
Interesting !

[Verskis]

What do the red string running under the sole and the thing behind the heel do?

[Leo Tasker]

My uneducated guess is that it's a lever and cable connected to the toe piece? Either to lock it into the binding or release it (or both). Can't think why they would design it like that though, instead of having the mechanism at the front like the current system...

[bgregoire]

Really? And now we have to carry snowshoes in our backpack to climb a mountain? I'm thinking good old skins are tons lighter!

From the looks of it, this cannot be backwards compatible with other bindings.

It does in fact look like a dynafit system with a conventional NNN-BC rubber stopper.

The red string looks like the release mechanism to clip in and our of the ski.

I am doubtful this will be that advantageous for those tele freaks amongst us. The front of the boot will have to be quite sturdy and stiff.

Congrats to Rotta for attempting to improve the design nonetheless.

Prepare to shell out the bucks!

[fisheater]

Ben, if the new system is expensive, then quality Norwegian welt boots will seem more affordable by comparison.
There’s always a positive. However if Rottefella sends the system for demo in Quebec, and videos are released of steep glade powder skiing, with soft, light boots, and 100 mm wide skis underfoot, well....
I look forward to the reviews. Equipment can help you go faster, steeper, easier. However really skilled skiers are better on ancient gear, than average skiers on the latest and greatest.
It will take a few years for any of my gear to need replacement. I hope they still make Norwegian welt boots, and Alaska’s at that time.

[Johnny]

Very promising binding, for several reasons... So sad it didn't make the 2019-2020 katalog. But hey, remember, it's called the Rottefella Backcountry Binding System... My guess is that they got sued by Backcountry.com...

Expensive? It doesn't have to be. No matter if it's XC, Telemark, pins or NTN, Rottefella's bindings are still quite cheap compared to alternatives. You are aware that a lot of people are dropping 600$ USD on Meidjo bindings to ski their local hills on week-ends right?

However if Rottefella sends the system for demo in Quebec, and videos are released of steep glade powder skiing, with soft, light boots, and 100 mm wide skis underfoot, well....
I look forward to the reviews.

Please Rottefella, you already have my mailing address!

[turnfarmer]

Me like.. Rottefella if you are listening please put the bumper on a pivot or make it movable forward to allow full free pivot. Even better make the movement forward in steps for variable resistance. Although simply being able to flip it forward on a pivot would be simpler mechanically and likely more reliable. Different density bumpers too please.
Please offer T3/Garmont Guida type boots

[Johnny]

Me like.. Rottefella if you are listening please put the bumper on a pivot or make it movable forward to allow full free pivot. Even better make the movement forward in steps for variable resistance. Although simply being able to flip it forward on a pivot would be simpler mechanically and likely more reliable. Different density bumpers too please.
Please offer T3/Garmont Guida type boots

PRECISELY what I have been dreaming for years...!