TL;DR: Purchasing ski bindings can seem daunting — after all, bindings play a huge role in skier safety and performance. Tyrolia has been manufacturing alpine ski bindings for nearly 100 years, focusing on quality and safety so that the skier can perform at their best and with confidence.

I have been skiing for 33 years — long enough to know the importance of having a high-quality pair of bindings that is right for you! Ever been skiing along just doing your thing and all of a sudden you just ski out of your bindings? Or, on the other hand, ever taken a bad fall and not come out of your bindings? Both of these scenarios have happened to me. Luckily I came out unscathed, but being put in these dangerous positions was a good reminder of the importance of having not only a good pair of bindings but the right pair for your particular skier specs.

Tyrolia is a go-to binding brand for me because of their quality, durability, and reliability. This guide takes a deeper dive into each of the Tyrolia binding categories, highlighting the positives and negatives so that you can make your binding purchase with confidence.

Who is Tyrolia?

Founded in 1847 and based in Austria, Tyrolia is a market leader in the alpine ski binding sector. Manufacturing bindings for ski disciplines including racing, all-mountain, freeski, touring, and even models specifically for juniors, Tyrolia has the perfect binding for every alpine skier and consistently produces one of the most reliable products on the market year after year.

If you’re looking for high-quality, high-tech ski bindings that allow you to perform at the uppermost level without sacrificing skier safety, consider a pair of Tyrolia bindings. But with over 20 binding models to choose from, how do you know which Tyrolia binding is perfect for you?

What to Consider When Buying Tyrolia Bindings

1. What Type of Skiing Will You Be Doing?

The first thing to consider is to determine what type you need. Ski bindings are designed differently for the different ski “types” or ski disciplines. Knowing the type of skiing you'll be participating in is the first step in selecting the appropriate bindings.

2. What DIN Range Do You Need?

Once you’ve determined what binding type you need, it’s important to know your appropriate DIN range, which is the binding release setting and is essential for minimizing the risk of injury. To determine that, you must consider your skiing ability and your weight.

At Tyrolia, most of the binding categories offer models in a few different DIN ranges. For example, the Tyrolia Attack series has binding models with a maximum DIN of 17, 14, 12, and 11. Select bindings that have a DIN range that is appropriate for you.

4. What Special Features Do You Need / Want?

Many Tyrolia bindings come with unique features to further enhance their safety and performance. For example, if safety is something that is a top priority for you, look for bindings that include features such as the full heel release (FHR). If having the coolest-looking skis on the whole mountain is important to you, then consider a pair of Tyrolia Attack bindings, which are available in 6 different colors! Determine what features are important to you, and put them on the top of your priority list.

5. Are the Bindings Compatible With Your Ski Boots and Skis?

When selecting ski bindings, make sure they are compatible with both your skis and your ski boots. Bindings that are not compatible with your skis and boots can compromise safety and performance on the slopes. Consult a professional or Tyrolia’s guidelines, such as the ski boot compatibility chart found on their website, to verify compatibility before purchasing.

What Are the Different Types of Tyrolia Bindings?

As mentioned previously, Tyrolia has over 20 models of bindings available across six different categories. Each binding category is most suitable for a specific ski discipline or skier style, and within each category there are models with slightly varying features and specs to really hone in on a skier’s specific needs and desires.

1. Freeski Bindings

Tyrolia’s freeski binding category features their Attack series, which is a versatile, high-performance binding that’s designed to handle any conditions and any terrain, from powder days to park laps. Within the freeski category, there are models with a maximum DIN setting of 11, 13, 14, and 17, models that are compatible with alpine touring boots (indicated by the “MN” in the binding title), and even a model that includes all the extended safety features of Tyrolia’s new Protector series, so there’s a perfect Tyrolia Attack binding for every skier!

Benefits:

• Versatile
• High performance
• Option available that is compatible with alpine touring boots
• Protector series option available for those wanting extended safety features
• 6 available colors

Be Aware:

• May be too robust for beginner or intermediate skiers

2. Touring Bindings

Alpine touring bindings are designed to accommodate both uphill and downhill travel, such as in the back or sidecountry. Tyrolia offers three touring binding models that have a maximum DIN setting of 10, 12, and 14, weights ranging from 980g-1370g, and various features to make climbing easier without sacrificing downhill performance.

Benefits:

• Great option for a hybrid touring set-up
• Compatible with alpine boots and alpine touring boots

Be Aware:

• All three models are frame bindings, which are the heaviest, bulkiest type of alpine touring binding
• Touring bindings may sacrifice some downhill stability and performance compared with traditional alpine bindings
• Not recommended if planning to use on-piste only

3. Racing Bindings

Tyrolia offers three binding models in the racing category. With a more aerodynamic toe piece and technologies that give the skier more precise control and better power transfer, these bindings are built for speed!

Benefits:

• More aerodynamic
• Technologies that enhance skier’s control at high speeds

Be Aware:

• Heavy for all mountain use

4. Piste and All Mountain Bindings

Tyrolia’s piste and all-mountain category carries the most bindings, with 13 models available across three lines: the PowerRail, the SuperLite Rail, and the Performance lines. The bindings in this category are designed for performance on any type of terrain, regardless of the skier’s ability level.

Tyrolia’s Protector series is made up of seven binding models, six of which are found within the piste and all-mountain category, and one model is found in the freeski category. The Protector line has enhanced safety features and was designed specifically to reduce injuries to the knee, which is the most commonly injured body part among skiers.

Benefits:

• Protector series emphasizes safety, especially for the knee
• Provides versatility for the everyday resort skier
• Many of the models are available as a system binding or a flat binding

Be Aware:

• May not be robust enough for an aggressive skier
• Expensive for a basic all-mountain binding
• No touring binding option

5. Junior Bindings

Tyrolia’s junior line focuses on alpine bindings for smaller, lighter skiers — aka children! It’s dangerous to ski with a DIN set too high, so the seven binding models in this category have DIN options significantly lower than the bindings in the other categories: 4.5, 7.5, and 9. This ensures safety and performance for little ones. In addition to lower DIN ranges, the bindings in this category feature technologies that make stepping in and out of the bindings easier for someone with less weight, and the bindings themselves are lighter and have a softer flex for easier handling.

Benefits:

• Designed specifically for children
• Models available for both beginner and more advanced junior skiers

Be Aware:

• Expensive for a binding that will be grown out of and compared with similar products

6. Rental Bindings

Tyrolia offers seven binding models within the rental category. These bindings are easily adjustable and fit a wide range of boot sizes, making them ideal for demos and rentals. And better yet, they don’t sacrifice safety and performance!

Benefits:

• Can be easily adjusted
• Adapt to a wide range of boot sizes
• Versatile enough for a wide range of skier types
• Feature many performance and safety technologies

Be Aware:

• No junior option available
• No touring option available

Features to Look Out for When Buying Tyrolia Bindings

Tyrolia bindings are equipped with many basic features that can be found across most conventional bindings, as well as many unique features and technologies that enhance Tyrolia’s safety, performance, and reliability. Below is a list of some features to keep an eye out for!

Basic Binding Features

The features listed below are basic binding features that are not unique to Tyrolia, and you should keep them in mind when purchasing new ski bindings of any type.

1. DIN Range: Consult a certified technician or binding dealer to help you determine your DIN. For more information on DIN settings, check out the article What is Your DIN Setting and What Does it Do? by Curated Ski Expert Aidan Anderson.
2. Brake Width: Tyrolia bindings will come in a few different size options, which correspond to their brake width. It’s important that you select the brake width that is within 10mm of the waist width of the skis that you plan to have the bindings mounted on.
3. Boot Compatibility: Not all bindings work with all ski boots, and wouldn’t it be a bummer if you bought new bindings only to find out that they don’t work with yours? It’s important to always make sure that your bindings and boots are compatible, and there are a few reasons why they may not be: the binding adjustment range and boot sole length don’t match up, the bindings and boots are for different ski disciplines, the boot sole height or technologies (such as GripWalk soles) don’t fit with the binding. Always double-check the compatibility of the binding with your ski footwear before purchasing.

Exceptional Binding Features

The features listed below are just some of the safety and performance features offered by Tyrolia bindings. Not every pair of Tyrolia bindings has all of these features, so determine which ones are a priority for you and keep an eye out for them when shopping for Tyrolia bindings!

1. Full Diagonal Toe: Ensures safety during backward twisting falls by allowing the binding toe piece to release 180 degrees both horizontally and vertically.
2. Anti-Friction Slider (AFS): While anti-friction devices are not unique to Tyrolia, Tyrolia’s exclusive AFS technology allows the boot to move out of the binding with barely any friction at all, providing safety even if there’s ice and dirt built up beneath the ski boot.
3. Roller Pincer (TRP) Toe System: While this feature does offer enhanced safety, it also boasts enhanced performance. The four rollers and gliding inserts in the toe piece not only ensure 180-degree release and reduce the load and the skier’s knees but also allow for the exact centering of the ski boot.
4. Diagonal Heel (D-RX): This heel piece has a 150-degree release range, allowing the skier’s heel to release into the direction of the fall. This will help reduce pressure on the skiers’ knees, specifically during forward-twisting falls.
5. Full Heel Release (FHR): Found only in the Tyrolia Protector series, this feature offers maximum safety, specifically for the skier’s knees and the dreaded ACL tear. This heel piece has a 180-degree release range both horizontally and vertically, protecting the skier from injury in both forward- and backward-twisting falls.
6. Climbing Aids: This feature is found on most AT bindings and is a huge help when traveling uphill. The climbing aid creates an elevated platform at the heel piece, allowing the skier's ankle to stay at a relatively neutral angle even when they are climbing a steep pitch. This takes the strain off their lower leg and makes climbing much, much easier. Tyrolia touring bindings offer climbing aids with a maximum pitch of either 13 or 15 degrees.

How to Choose the Right Tyrolia Binding

Whew, that’s a lot of information! Now that you have a better understanding of Tyrolia’s bindings, it’s time to determine which ones are right for you. Let’s break it down with a few scenarios.

Andrew: The No-Limits Ripper

Andrew is a 200lb advanced skier based in Utah. He skis all types of terrain and conditions, from steep and deep powder runs to park laps in between storms. Andrew just bought a new pair of skis to add to his quiver, which he plans to use to ski big lines on deep powder days.

Features Andrew Should Look For:

• Tyrolia binding category: freeski
• DIN range: 8-18

The Tyrolia Attack 17 GW Freeski Bindings would be ideal for Andrew. They are one of Tyrolia’s freeski bindings and have a maximum DIN of 17.

Sarah: The Cautious One

Sarah is a 115lb advanced skier based in New Hampshire. Sarah used to have no limits and ski all terrain and all conditions, but after having ACL reconstruction surgery three years ago, she is a little more cautious now. Sarah primarily likes to cruise groomers, although she will still venture down a double black diamond if the conditions are right! Sarah just upgraded her skis and ski boots, so she needs a new pair of bindings to go with her new GripWalk boots.

Features Sarah Should Look For:

• Tyrolia binding category: piste and all-mountain
• DIN range: 3-12
• Advanced safety features such as Full Heel Release (FHR) and Full Diagonal Toe

The Tyrolia Protector SLR 11 GW Set Alpine Bindings would work well for Sarah. They are one of the bindings in Tyrolia’s Protector series, which offer advanced safety features designed specifically to minimize knee injuries. These bindings also have a maximum DIN of 11 and are compatible with GripWalk boots.

Kelly: The Adventure Seeker

Kelly is a 145lb advanced skier who has recently been exploring the backcountry. For her first season touring, she bought a pair of used, bulky bindings, since she wasn’t sure if she would stick with it. One season in and Kelly loves it, so she has decided to upgrade her touring setup. Since Kelly still plans to ski 20+ days at the resort, she is looking for a hybrid binding that will give her the freedom to climb when she’s in the backcountry but won’t hinder her downhill performance.

Features Kelly Should Look For:

• Tyrolia binding category: touring
• DIN range: 3-13
• Compatibility with touring boots (indicated by “MN”)
• Features that are found specifically on touring skis that make climbing easier (i.e. climbing aids)

The Tyrolia Ambition 12 MN Touring Bindings or the Tyrolia Adrenalin 14 MN Freeski Bindings are both a solid choice for Kelly. They are designed for touring, they are compatible with AT boots, and they offer a maximum DIN appropriate for Kelly.

Find the Best Tyrolia Bindings for You

Now that you have a better understanding of the different binding models that Tyrolia has on the market, it’s time to find the perfect pair for you. Consider your skier category, skier style, weight, and any priority features you want to narrow down the options. If this all still feels overwhelming, reach out to a Curated Ski Expert for assistance finding the best pair of Tyrolia bindings for you!