About this review This review is my own honest opinion of the ski bindings, which I bought with my own money in February 2021.

My take

The Marker Griffon ID bindings are versatile, strong, and lightweight freeride binding geared towards intermediate to advanced skiers. Mounting these on skis is a no-brainer.

About the gear

• Model: 2021 Marker Griffon 100mm

About me

• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 230 lbs
• Preferred DIN range: 7-16
• Experience: 32

Test conditions

• When I bought these: February 2021
• Days tested: 12
• Boots: Lange RX 130
• Boot Size: 28.5
• Skis: Blizzard Bonafide 97
• Where I’ve used it: Gore Mountain
• Terrain: Steeps, trees, groomers, hardpack, bumps, chop, crud, and spring corn

How it performs

What I was looking for

I was looking for a durable, high-quality binding to match with my new Blizzard Bonafide 97s. I wanted strength without too much weight and a solid, locked-in feel without breaking the bank. They needed to look cool too.

Why I chose this gear

Marker Griffons have always been a solid choice. Lightweight, strong, and durable - they’re the only binding on the market that features a perpendicular toe spring and vertical heel spring that deliver precise power to the ski. The short mount platform allows extra flex underfoot to help me get the most out of the ski. Choosing the Marker Griffons was always an easy choice.

In addition to the Marker Griffons, I considered the Salomon STH2 13, and the Look Pivot 15 too. All three bindings are very good bindings and when it comes to performance, you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

I picked the Marker Griffons based on a few points of difference. First, the platform is the shortest of the bunch and this allows for more ski flex. Second, the step-in is easier in the 2021 version. Marker claims it is 30% easier to step in over previous Griffon models and I definitely notice the difference amongst my skis. I have a set of Griffons from 2013 and Jesters from 2012 and the new 2021 Griffons are by far easiest to step in at the same DIN setting of 11. The third and final factor that I considered when deciding between my three choices was weight. The Markers are considerably lighter than the others; the Griffons are 2038 g per pair, the Salomons are 2290 g, and the Looks are 2490 g. Weight is important to me because I already have a heavy ski with my Bonafide 97s. If I can save a few extra grams around my feet, I may save my legs a bit and get a little bit quicker from edge to edge, especially in the bumps and trees.

What I love about it

• Release Reliability: I am confident these bindings will release when I need them to. They have excellent forward pressure and when clicked in I am locked and loaded.
• Downhill Performance: When clicked in, I am secure with no wiggle or movement whatsoever. The Marker Griffons allow me to deliver efficient power to the skis without compromise.
• Durability: Durable hard plastics make up the body of these bindings, with high tensile steel springs in the toe piece and heel piece. 2021 Griffons feature an ice scraper on the toe for kicking off excess snow and ice on the bottom of the boot. This saves the toe piece from taking direct blows.
• Weight: At 1019 g each, serious weight has been saved despite not losing any performance and it’s much lighter than its competitors. The weight savings pairs nicely with a heavy ski for a couple of reasons: firstly, carrying from the car to the mountain makes it a bit easier, and secondly, having less weight on the bindings helps transfer edge-to-edge with more ease, saving some energy for turns later in the day.
• Power Transfer: These bindings are built with such strong and rigid components, giving me a real sense of security and vibration damping. There is no wiggle or give in the toe and heel at all. I get a very confident feeling in all variable conditions, so just step on the gas pedal and enjoy the ride.

Issues I’ve encountered

• Backcountry Fall: I encountered a slight issue when a release should have occurred in a backcountry fall. I dialed the DIN back a touch and have had no issues since.

Favorite moment with this gear

The black Griffons look great on all skis, particularly on my Blizzard Bonafides. They match very well with all-freeride and all-mountain skis. Every time I click in, I feel ready to go attack the mountain.

Value for the money vs. other options

The Marker Griffons have been listed at the same price for years and beat out the competition in terms of value and consistency. It is a great deal. Salomon STH2 13 and Look Pivot 15 are both more expensive.

Final verdict

For those looking for a high-quality, lightweight, durable binding that looks great and lasts a long time, then the Marker Griffons are ideal. They also come in a bunch of different colors and brake widths to pair with your favorite skis.