In the world of ski bindings, the Marker Griffon 13 ID and the Armada N Strive 14 GW are two top contenders for 2024. Both are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers, offering reliable performance, durability, and a range of features that enhance the skiing experience. The Griffon 13 ID stands out for its adjustable toe height, anti-ice rail, and compatibility with alpine touring souls. The Strive 14 GW, on the other hand, impresses with its compatibility with both grip walk and alpine souls, 30mm of travel in the heel, and a stack height of 20mm. While both bindings are excellent choices, the right one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Marker Griffon 13 ID Ski Bindings · 2024 summary

The Marker Griffon 13 ID Ski Bindings are a solid choice for intermediate to advanced skiers. They offer a DIN range of 4-13, making them suitable for a wide range of skiers. One of the standout features of the Griffon 13 ID is its adjustable toe height. This feature allows the bindings to be used with alpine touring souls as well as grip walk souls, providing versatility for different skiing styles.

Another unique feature of the Griffon 13 ID is the anti-ice rail on top of the toe piece. This rail is designed to clean the bottom of your boot before you click into your skis, ensuring that no snow or ice interferes with the binding interfacing with the boot. This feature can be particularly useful in icy conditions, helping to enhance safety and performance.

The Griffon 13 ID bindings are also known for their durability. While they're not the lightest bindings on the market, they're built to last, making them a great investment for skiers who hit the slopes regularly. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, so you can choose a pair that matches your skis and personal style.

Armada N Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings · 2024 summary

The Armada N Strive 14 GW Ski Bindings are a versatile choice for skiers of all skill levels. They're compatible with both grip walk and alpine souls, as well as touring boots, making them a flexible option for different types of skiing.

One of the standout features of the Strive 14 GW is its 30mm of travel in the heel. This feature allows the bindings to easily accommodate a size up or down, providing flexibility if you decide to get a new boot in the future.

The Strive 14 GW bindings also have a stack height of 20mm, which is very low on the ski. This low stack height helps to create highly effective power transfer between the skier and the ski, enhancing control and performance.

Despite their robust features, the Strive 14 GW bindings are 15% lighter than their predecessor, the STH. This makes them a powerful yet lightweight option for all-mountain freeride skiing.

Similarities

Both the Marker Griffon 13 ID and the Armada N Strive 14 GW are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers, offering a wide DIN range that accommodates a variety of skill levels. They both feature a low stack height, which enhances power transfer and provides a close-to-snow feel for better control.

Both bindings are also compatible with different types of boot soles, including alpine and grip walk souls, making them versatile options for different skiing styles. They're both known for their durability and reliable release mechanisms, ensuring safety and performance on the slopes.

Finally, both bindings come in a variety of colors, allowing skiers to choose a pair that matches their skis and personal style.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While the Marker Griffon 13 ID and the Armada N Strive 14 GW have many similarities, they also have some key differences that make them suitable for different types of skiers.

The Griffon 13 ID features an adjustable toe height and an anti-ice rail, making it a great choice for skiers who often ski in icy conditions or who value the ability to adjust their bindings to fit different boot styles. It's also a bit heavier, which may make it more suitable for skiers who prioritize durability over weight.

On the other hand, the Strive 14 GW has 30mm of travel in the heel, making it a more flexible option for skiers who may change their boots in the future. It's also 15% lighter than its predecessor, making it a good choice for skiers who prioritize lightweight gear.

In terms of persona, the Griffon 13 ID may be more suitable for skiers who value versatility and durability, while the Strive 14 GW may be a better fit for skiers who value flexibility and lightweight gear.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When comparing the Marker Griffon 13 ID and the Armada N Strive 14 GW, it's clear that both bindings excel in different areas.

In terms of versatility, the Griffon 13 ID comes out on top with its adjustable toe height and compatibility with different boot soles.

For flexibility, the Strive 14 GW wins with its 30mm of travel in the heel, which can accommodate a size up or down.

When it comes to weight, the Strive 14 GW is the clear winner, being 15% lighter than its predecessor.

Finally, in terms of durability, both bindings are robust and reliable, but the Griffon 13 ID's heavier weight may give it a slight edge in this category.

Overall, the winner will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a skier.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Marker Griffon 13 ID and the Armada N Strive 14 GW are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced skiers. They both offer a wide DIN range, compatibility with different boot soles, and a low stack height for enhanced control and performance.

The Griffon 13 ID stands out for its adjustable toe height and anti-ice rail, making it a versatile and durable option. Meanwhile, the Strive 14 GW impresses with its 30mm of travel in the heel and lighter weight, making it a flexible and lightweight choice.

Ultimately, the right binding for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you value versatility and durability or flexibility and lightweight gear, both bindings are sure to deliver a great performance on the slopes.