Member Reviews: G3 Onyx AT Binding

In the world of alpine touring weight inevitably becomes an issue. However, for alpine converts downhill performance and convenience take precedence and herein lies the appeal of G3's Onyx, the heaviest tech binding on the market. The Onyx provides several things missing from the typical tech binding (read: Dynafit). First, they are easier to get in to. True, you do have to hold the toe pins open with a ski pole, but since the pins are closer together when open it is easier to align the pins with the inserts. Secondly, you do not have to exit the binding to switch modes, or figure out the secret Dynafit mojo move. Just lift the red lever at the back of the binding to lock the heel, or...

I've been on these bindings for about a year now and have skied them in the Idaho backcountry, as well as multiple trips to the Tetons.  I am agressive and ski some steep lines.  The initial foray was on the Middle Teton glacier from the top of the couloir at the Dike col.  The snow was very firm and pitches in the upper 40's to low 50's.  No problems. I don't do a lot of "hucking" anymore, so I can't say how they hold up for you cliff jumpers. The only problem that I have had is that in free heel mode, even with the binding locked, i have had the toe come out if my knee was very close to the ski.  This can occur in steep uphill climbs. I have never had...