AT Binding Review

Day 3: Marker Duke, the super clamp.

Marker Duke

Marker Duke Binding Review in 3 sentences:

Solid. Skiing the Duke made the wide Bro boards edge like a slalom ski, making an icy run way more fun than the previous bindings in this review. The walking motion was fluid, and traversing up an icy slope was just as solid as the ski down. I would put this binding on any ski that spends more than half of it's days inbounds, but since the ski must be removed to switch modes from climbing to skiing, I would not use this binding on a dedicated backcountry setup.

More About the Marker Dukes

After a couple times of skiing the icy man-made snow down to the Alta base, I had grown weary of the icy spots. The Dukes are such a solid feeling binding, my confidence truly soared and I was able to enjoy turning on the ice, and to leave some deep ruts in the process. This binding truly shines in it's ability to lay wide boards on edge. It made me realize that I'd never need to buy a non-touring resort binding again.

Switch opereates easily with gloves on.
Fluid walking.
It's the heaviest AT binding (by 4oz), but it doesnt' really feel much heavier on foot than the other hefties.
Easy to operate heel lifts, though you might have to use your hand.
Heel lift heights aren't high enough. Especially considering the agressive market for this binding.
Huge DIN, way more than I need. I'd probably consider it too much except for the fact that these bindings rip!

Marker Duke Alpine Touring Binding, side view

Stats

Weight measurements are for one binding, with breaks and screws:
Weight Synopsis: Pretty much 3 pounds
Weight for numbers geeks: 47.7oz, or 2lbs 15.7oz
Heel lifts: 2 levels, Operated by prying and wacking with pole end, and by hand. (going from short lift to none)
Heel lift, medium: 4°
Heel lift, tall: 9°
Ball of foot height: 2.8cm
Heel height: 4cm

AT Binding Review Links

Fritschi Freeride : Naxo 21 : Marker Duke : Silveretta Pure : TLT Vertical ST : The testing ski