22 Designs Axl Telemark Bindings
The 22 Designs Axl telemark bindings get you deep into the backcountry and won't disappoint as you carve the steeps and catch air on the way back to your ride home.
- Free pivot point located directly under the 3-pin line takes the resistance out of skinning uphill; lock the pivot point down when you're ready to link turns
- Optimize the feel of the bindings by selecting 1 of 3 cable guide positions; move the pin forward for a more neutral feel and back for a more active feel
- Cables and springs are routed underfoot to allow telemark boots to flex naturally at the bellows; springs provide more than 2 in. of travel
- Spring-loaded HammerHeel climbing bails are easy to flip up and down with your ski pole
- 2,000-lb. test cable and solid steel toe pieces withstand hard use in the mountains
- 6-hole mounting pattern creates a solid connection to the ski
- Size Small for boots sized Mondo 25 and under; size Large for Mondo 25.5 and up
Made in USA.
View all 22 Designs Telemark Ski Bindings| Best Use | Backcountry Skiing |
|---|---|
| Boot Sole Compatibility | Telemark |
| Weight (Pair) | 1,769 grams |
| Gender | Unisex |
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Best Tele Binding
The Hammerhead has been considered the ultimate tele binding by providing the best lateral power transfer, bomber construction and stability. However, the Hammerhead had one flaw in its lack of the free pivot point. The Axl combined the great cosntruction from the Hammerhead with a well functioning pivot point and it is now without a doubt the standard for tele binding ( although it may be rivaled by the NTN). I have abused my binding with multiple backcountry trips and with over 40 days inbound and the binding has been awesome. If you are a true tele skier, read the reviews in Telemark Mag or Backcountry for validation.
best binding for backcountry downhill
We have two pairs of Axls in my house--50-75 days on them at least between the two. We also own Voile Switchbacks and an NTN setup. The Switchbacks are lighter and more efficient uphill, and the NTN gives better control in a resort, but the Axl has the best balance of uphill and downhill performance. 22 Designs had some heel throws break (including one of ours when over-tightened) in the 2009-2010 season. They sent a free replacement as soon as I called, and my understanding is that the problem has been resolved. The broken throw didn't damage the cable or interfere with finishing the ski day.
Stands the test of time
A few things made this binding work really well for me after some time (years) of trials: * Adjust the cable as tight as you can fit on the heel (for great classic tele 75mm action) * Change the tour/ski mode on the front of the binding with the tip of pole with minimum back/forth effort * On days when snow/ice may build up check under the front plate before cursing the tour/ski mode transition. I may be a slow learner but it wasn't until the season of 2018-2019 that I learned to get the most out of this binding. It is reliable up and down and easy on the transition. I AT some now, but I'm drawn back to this binding for its versatility, efficiency and fun.
Didn't know what I was missing, Awesome!
I switched from the G3 Targa to the Axl. The difference was dramatic and immediate. I instantly felt like my trailing foot maintained power and my boot flexed at the bellows (no more floppy rear ski). I've only spent three days on them so far on resorts, but I am looking forward to the free pivot and my next backcountry trip. Awesome binding! Overall, I added weight compared to the G3 Targa's but it was well worth it.
love theses bindings!
I LOVED how easy it was to change from touring to active mode. I am used to the older HH bindings which were IMPOSSIBLE to switch under snowy conditions. These do NOT ice up or jam up at all. Completely friction-free uphill for climbing. Even the pin change for how active you want these changes easily. Installation was about average difficulty. Instructions were fine for that.
busted heel thorw
The heel thorw busted in the shop while the binding was being mounted! 22 design tells me others have had this problem. Axl users beware! My volie heel throw has never failed in 15 years of use. this is not a good sign!