In the world of ski bindings, two products stand out for their exceptional performance and features: the Salomon Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings and the Look Pivot 14 GW Ski Bindings, both 2024 models. Both bindings are praised for their power transfer, durability, and consistent release reliability. However, they each have their unique strengths and weaknesses that make them suitable for different types of skiers. The Salomon Strive 14 GW is lauded for its grip walk only binding, adjustable springs, and low stack height, which enhances power transfer. On the other hand, the Look Pivot 14 GW is revered for its dependability, versatility, and legendary performance, making it a favorite among professional athletes. In the end, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a skier.

Salomon Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings · 2024 summary

The Salomon Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings are a grip walk only binding, which means they are designed to work with boots that have a grip walk sole. This is a new standard in the ski industry that provides better walking comfort and improved grip. The bindings have adjustable springs, with settings ranging from 12 to 14, both in the front and the rear. This allows you to customize the binding to your weight and skiing style, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

One of the standout features of the Salomon Strive 14 GW is its fixed toe height. Unlike other bindings that have an adjustable toe height to accommodate different boot sole standards, the Strive 14 GW has a fixed height. This eliminates the risk of the screw that holds the toe height loosening over time, which can lead to play in the toe and a loss of power transfer.

The bindings also have a low stack height, which means your boot is close to the ski and, therefore, close to the snow. This design enhances power transfer and reduces wasted energy, making the bindings highly efficient. The bindings are also praised for their durability and reliability, making them a great choice for intermediate to advanced-level skiers.

Look Pivot 14 GW Ski Bindings · 2024 summary

The Look Pivot 14 GW Ski Bindings are renowned for their dependability, versatility, and legendary performance. They are loved by racers, bumpers, and park and halfpipe rats alike. The bindings have a proven innovative heelpiece design that has been relatively unchanged since the 1980s, a testament to its effectiveness and reliability.

One of the key features of the Look Pivot 14 GW is its Full Action toe piece and unique turntable heel design. This design offers a responsive connection between your boot and ski, ensuring maximum performance on the slopes. The bindings also feature powerful shock absorption and compatibility with both traditional Alpine and GripWalk® boot soles.

The Look Pivot 14 GW is also known for its safety features. The bindings have a 180-degree Multi-Directional Release that provides a true vertical toe release, helping to prevent injury during falls. The Pivot turntable heel piece swivels around the tibial axis for rotational safety, while the heel also has 28mm of vertical elastic travel for shock absorption and prevention of pre-release.

Similarities

Both the Salomon Strive 14 GW and the Look Pivot 14 GW ski bindings are designed for intermediate to advanced-level skiers who prioritize power transfer, durability, and consistent release reliability. They both have a DIN range of 4-14, making them suitable for a wide range of skiers. Both bindings also feature unique designs that enhance power transfer and responsiveness, ensuring optimal performance on the slopes. They are both compatible with GripWalk® boot soles, a new standard in the ski industry that provides better walking comfort and improved grip.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both bindings are designed for high performance, they each have their unique strengths that make them suitable for different types of skiers. The Salomon Strive 14 GW is ideal for skiers who prefer a grip walk only binding and appreciate the benefits of a fixed toe height and low stack height. It's a great choice for skiers who value efficiency and power transfer, and it's also a more affordable option for those looking for a high DIN binding.

On the other hand, the Look Pivot 14 GW is perfect for skiers who prioritize dependability, versatility, and legendary performance. It's a favorite among professional athletes and is known for its innovative heelpiece design and safety features. The Look Pivot 14 GW is also praised for its shock absorption capabilities and compatibility with both traditional Alpine and GripWalk® boot soles.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to power transfer, both bindings perform exceptionally well. However, the Salomon Strive 14 GW's low stack height and fixed toe height give it a slight edge in this category.

In terms of versatility, the Look Pivot 14 GW takes the lead. Its compatibility with both traditional Alpine and GripWalk® boot soles and its unique turntable heel design make it a more versatile option.

For durability, both bindings are highly praised. However, the Salomon Strive 14 GW's mostly metal construction may give it a slight advantage over the Look Pivot 14 GW, which has a toe piece that is mostly plastic.

Finally, in terms of safety, the Look Pivot 14 GW stands out with its 180-degree Multi-Directional Release and Pivot turntable heel piece, which provide superior protection against injury.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Salomon Strive 14 GW and the Look Pivot 14 GW ski bindings are exceptional products that offer high performance, durability, and safety. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences as a skier. If you value efficiency and power transfer and are looking for a more affordable high DIN binding, the Salomon Strive 14 GW is a great choice. If you prioritize dependability, versatility, and safety, and don't mind spending a bit more, the Look Pivot 14 GW is the way to go. Either way, you can't go wrong with either of these bindings. Happy skiing!