Naxo 01

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The Naxo 01 binding is an innovative and interesting product, suitable for intense ski mountaineering and more. From our field tests we found that this Swiss-made binding was particularly suitable for off-piste skiing, freeride and for all those ascents and descents where safety and reliability are of utmost importance.

It should be said immediately that Naxo's flagship is a step-in binding, very similar to normal downhill bindings, with a robust toe piece and extremely efficient heel piece. The release settings are precise and allow the binding to be set perfectly, using values that range to 12 from the value z.

The structure of the Naxo 01 is comprised of a double aluminium rail, onto which the toe and heel pieces are placed. The rotation movement for the ascent is controlled by a system of points connected to the two rails, and it is this peculiarly that lies at the heart of this binding. One point lies at the extreme end of the binding, where it is joined to the ski, beyond the ski boot. The second point is positioned beneath the toe joint. This original system enables the fulcrum to be shifted by 65mm, thereby obtaining a more fluid and less tiring rotation movement which, in turn, results in a more natural upward progression compared to normal ski mountaineering bindings. The movement is ergonomic, progression is softer and more fluid and, not to be underestimated, less pressure is exerted onto shin bone and heels. This exclusive "Virtual Rotation System" is the bindings hallmark.

Another characteristic we found particularly interesting is the system used to regulate the length of the ski boot. This is located on the heel piece between the two rails and can be regulated easily by simply lifting the lever and sliding the mechanism. This system is perhaps unique to ski mountaineering bindings and can immediately adapt to all boot sizes. The release mechanism and climbing aids are simple, though less new: the climbing aid can be easily adjusted from 6° to 12° by placing the pole tip into the wide hole. The binding is completed with a series of accessories: crampons (either 80mm or 100mm), ski stoppers (either 92mm or 100mm) and leashes.

In synthesis, the main qualities of this binding are its robustness, safety and security. And, of course, the comfortable, natural upward progression which comes about due to the shifted rotation point. Thinking about it, a more natural and efficient upward push means more energy for the descent!