Expert Comparison: Marker Duke PT 12 Ski Bindings · 2023 vs Atomic Shift 13 MNC Ski Bindings · 2024
VS
Side by side comparison | Out of stock | Best seller |
|---|---|---|
Price | $359.99 40% off | $419.97 30% off |
Color options | | |
User rating | 3(2) | 3.76(38) |
The Curated Take | Best for advanced skiers who want to explore the backcountry or slack country without sacrificing downhill performance. | Best for skiers who want to dabble in backcountry and sidecountry adventures without needing a dedicated setup. |
Ski binding type | Alpine Touring | Alpine Touring, Tech |
Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced | Advanced, Expert |
In the world of ski bindings, the Marker Duke PT 12 and the Atomic Shift 13 MNC are two top contenders. Both are designed for the adventurous skier who wants to explore beyond the resort boundaries without compromising on downhill performance. The Duke PT 12 is a hybrid binding that offers durability, reliability, and straightforward performance. It's ideal for advanced skiers who want to dabble in backcountry skiing. On the other hand, the Atomic Shift 13 MNC is a versatile binding that can handle any boot sole and allows for aggressive skiing. It's a great choice for skiers who want one binding to do it all. Both bindings have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
The Marker Duke PT 12 Ski Bindings are designed for resort skiers who want to explore the backcountry or slack country. These bindings are fairly straightforward and can even be used for just normal resort skiing. They give the skier the option for a big day out to just a couple of runs on the resort, which is exactly what they are made for. The advanced skier who wants to dabble in the backcountry is the target market for this binding and will allow for them to experience a different aspect of skiing.
The bindings are not the lightest or easiest to use, but they are straightforward, durable, and have a reliable release which makes it one of the best hybrid bindings on the market. The durability and beefiness of the Duke PT 12 allow for reliability and peace of mind on the slopes. They are lighter weight on the uphill compared to other hybrid bindings when taking the toe piece off, and they offer easy use with some practice and straightforward performance that is consistent.
However, they can be annoying to have the alpine toe on when touring and sometimes there's a worry about losing the alpine toe. They are relatively heavy compared to other hybrid or tech bindings, but the durability is unmatched.
These bindings are perfect for those who want either a binding that can work in the resort or the backcountry or just a beefy binding for the backcountry. The PT 12 is every bit as reliable as the 16, just a little bit lighter for those who don't need all 16 DINs.
These bindings are perfect for those who want either a binding that can work in the resort or the backcountry or just a beefy binding for the backcountry. The PT 12 is every bit as reliable as the 16, just a little bit lighter for those who don't need all 16 DINs.
Marker Duke PT 12 Ski Bindings · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
The Atomic Shift 13 MNC Ski Bindings are a versatile and easy-to-use binding that can handle any boot sole. This allows skiers to ski as aggressively as they'd like without worrying about toe release. The lightweight design makes uphill travel easier, and the binding offers great lateral travel to prevent premature release and effective power transfer to the edges, even on wider skis.
The Shift 13 bindings transform effortlessly into touring mode with a simple switch that allows your heels to move freely, making climbing a breeze. However, the lack of a second riser can make certain pitches more taxing. Also, the weight of the Shift binding compared to most tech bindings impacts the uphill performance of the binding.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Shift 13 bindings are a game-changer for skiers who want the best of both worlds. They are recommended for advanced to expert level skiers and offer both touring and freeride capabilities.
If you're looking for one do-it-all binding, then the Atomic/Salomon Shift is the only way to go. No other binding on the market offers the same ease of use and versatility as the Shift.
If you're looking for one do-it-all binding, then the Atomic/Salomon Shift is the only way to go. No other binding on the market offers the same ease of use and versatility as the Shift.
Atomic Shift 13 MNC Ski Bindings · 2024
- We price match
- Returnable
Similarities
Both the Marker Duke PT 12 and the Atomic Shift 13 MNC are hybrid bindings designed for skiers who want to explore beyond the resort boundaries. They both offer the versatility of a touring binding with the performance of an alpine binding. Both bindings are compatible with any boot sole and allow for aggressive skiing. They both have a reliable release system and offer effective power transfer to the edges. Both bindings are also designed to be durable and reliable, offering peace of mind on the slopes.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While both bindings are designed for versatility, they cater to slightly different personas. The Marker Duke PT 12 is ideal for advanced skiers who want to dabble in backcountry skiing. It's a bit heavier than other hybrid bindings, but its durability is unmatched. This makes it a great choice for skiers who value reliability and straightforward performance.
On the other hand, the Atomic Shift 13 MNC is a great choice for skiers who want one binding to do it all. It's lighter than the Duke PT 12, making it easier for uphill travel. It's also easier to switch between modes, making it a great choice for skiers who frequently transition between resort and backcountry skiing.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
When it comes to versatility, the Atomic Shift 13 MNC takes the lead. Its ability to handle any boot sole and its easy transition between modes make it a more versatile choice.
In terms of durability, the Marker Duke PT 12 comes out on top. Its beefiness and reliability make it a more durable choice, especially for skiers who value peace of mind on the slopes.
For uphill performance, the Atomic Shift 13 MNC wins. Its lighter weight and easy transition between modes make uphill travel easier.
For downhill performance, it's a tie. Both bindings offer effective power transfer to the edges and allow for aggressive skiing, making them both excellent choices for downhill performance.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Marker Duke PT 12 and the Atomic Shift 13 MNC are excellent choices for skiers who want to explore beyond the resort boundaries. The Duke PT 12 is a durable and reliable choice for advanced skiers who want to dabble in backcountry skiing. The Atomic Shift 13 MNC, on the other hand, is a versatile and easy-to-use binding that can handle any boot sole and allows for aggressive skiing. The choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you value durability and straightforward performance or versatility and ease of use, both bindings offer a great blend of resort and backcountry performance.
