Expert Review: Marker Squire 11 Ski Bindings · 2022
Published on 11/04/2022 · 4 min readThis review is my honest opinion of the bindings, which I purchased with my own money in January of 2022.
Marker Squire 11 and me enjoying some powder! All photos courtesy of Scott Anderson
About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the bindings, which I purchased with my own money in January of 2022.
My take
The Marker Squire 11 Ski Bindings are a great value for a high-quality binding with many of the same features as some more expensive bindings. Its light weight and 4–11 DIN rating make it a great fit for intermediate to advanced skiers.
Marker Squire 11 mounted on my skis
About the bindings I own
- Model: 2022 Marker Squire 11
About me
- Height: 5’9”
- Weight: 160lbs
- Preferred DIN range: 6–8
- Experience 45+
Test conditions
- When I bought these: January 2022
- Days tested: 15
- Boots: Dalbello Pantera 120 GW
- Boot Size: 24.5
- Skis: Chronic Rocky Mtn 105C Mossy Oak
- Where I’ve used it: Colorado and Utah
- Terrain: Steep blues and black diamonds without moguls
How they perform
What I was looking for
I was looking for a lightweight binding that wouldn’t break the bank. I prefer lightweight equipment and have had good experiences with Marker bindings. I feel that lightweight gear helps with my endurance on long ski days and allows me to be a little quicker edge-to-edge in tight spots.
Why I chose this gear
I have both alpine (ISO 5355) and touring boot (ISO 9523) soles. The Marker Squire 11 works with all the standard boot soles, including GripWalk. The light weight was another big part of my decision. The DIN range was well within my needs. I also looked at the Salomon Warden 11. I liked how the Marker Squire 11 was a little bit lighter, and I enjoyed the way the ski brake tucks in tight to the side of the heel piece.
Marker Squire 11 toe piece
What I love about them
- Release Reliability: The bindings have exceeded my expectations in performance. No premature releases and they feel rock solid while skiing steep hardpack. I primarily use them on powder days; and I was thankful for a couple of releases and have never felt like they released unnecessarily.
- Downhill Performance: The triple pivot toe design, sliding AFD, and hollow linkage heel keep me locked in and feeling secure on edge at speed. The toe and heel have wide wings, helping me center my boot to start the day, or after a fall, with less effort than other bindings.
- Durability: The Marker Squire is still looking and performing as if it were new. I feel like the Marker Squire 11 will last through a couple pairs of skis for a good five-plus years of performance.
- Weight: The Marker Squire 11 is one of the lightest weight bindings in this category at 820g. The lower weight means I’m moving less weight around while making quick turns and keeps my legs fresh longer.
- Power Transfer: The toe and heel have a wide mounting platform allowing the binding to transfer energy to the edges of all but the widest powder skis. This creates a solid and connected feel to the ski requiring less energy to get my skis up on edge.
- Other: The top to the toe piece has an aluminum metal piece that is great for scraping off snow and ice from the boots.
Issues I’ve encountered
- Other: The DIN range and construction don’t make it a great choice for heavier skiers or experts.
Favorite moment with this gear
While hitting an unexpected bump under 18” of new snow, I remember my brain saying “binding please release, please!” as my knee started to feel the pressure of a forward-twisting fall. My knee “cheered” that the binding released at just the right moment. I hopped back up and skied the rest of the day with my knee still intact!
Value for the money vs. other options
There are a handful of good choices in this category from companies like Salomon, Warden MNC 11, Tyrolia Attack 11 GW, and others. Marker has been an innovator in lighter, durable bindings for the all-mountain/freestyle skiing category with the robust toe and heel designs. If one doesn't need a DIN setting of 10+ or is looking to hit big tricks in the park, this is a solid choice. It's an excellent binding for under $200.
Final verdict
Bindings aren’t the most expensive part of one’s gear, but they might be the most important. The Marker Squire 11 has functioned perfectly while being very reliable. The gliding AFD and triple pivot toe design ensure a predictable release in a variety of conditions. They are a great binding for light- to medium-weight skiers.
