These things are so bomber. I've never had a problem with these bindings, ever. Very elegant binding.
I think in the reviews of the BD-branded version of these bindings that people have noted the heel turret is hard to turn. Very true. To give you some perspective: It's painful to turn these bindings without a thick glove on.
Another minor complaint might be that it's impossible to open the toe with a pole tip. Not the most important thing, but it'd be nice.
But overall: bomber.
ATK Trofeo Binding
Historically, race binding selection was based on an individual's needed release value and not much else. So even though the metallic hue of that one binding was calling your name, too bad! At least until now, that is. With the Trofeo, ATK has made the same great, race binding but with the option to choose between release values of 4,6,8, and 10. Now, everyone can enjoy the smooth, reliable action definitive of an ATK toepiece. For all but the biggest racers that need very high release values, the Trofeo has your back (feet?) in the quest for podium glory.
- Made of Alu 7075, Stainless Steel, and POM for a quality, durable build.
- Release value options of 4, 6, 8, or 10 for your retaining pleasure.
- Easy Entry System makes entry into the toe piece a breeze.
- Simple heel flap covers the pins to fly uphill.
- Solid steel heel pins will last you a long time.
- Optional adjustment plates for use with multiple boots.
- Optional crampon receptor will help you climb ice.
- Can accommodate an optional ski race brake.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
|
Weight |
151g [10] |
| Weight (pair) | 302g [10] |
|
Boot |
Tech |
|
Brakes |
None |
|
BSL |
Accessory plates |
|
Riser |
2 + flat |
|
Vertical |
Fixed |
|
Lateral |
Fixed |
|
Crampon |
Removable accessory |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
7075 aluminum, stainless steel |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Speed touring, racing |
| Notes | Choose your release race binding |
| Bottom Line | ATK goodness with options |
| Compare to other Race Bindings | |
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Questions & Reviews
11/7/2021
I use the other end of the pole, the handle, to open the binding. I don't want to scratch the pretty anodized finish.
3/24/2022
I think you'll find that any race type binding feels about the same hardness to turn, it's mostly a function of binding heel size.
The torque needed to spin the heel is what gives you resistance to lateral release; different bindings with the same lateral release setting will take roughly the same torque to spin. Since the boot pins are usually about the same distance from the heel pivot point, different bindings with the same lateral release setting should take roughly the same amount of linear force to the pins to spin the heel. The difference with heavier non race binding heels is that they usually have a large structure rear of the pivot that you use as a handle to spin them. With those bindings, you apply force at a point much further from the pivot point, so a much smaller force results in the same torque at the pivot point and it feels easier to spin.
The torque needed to spin the heel is what gives you resistance to lateral release; different bindings with the same lateral release setting will take roughly the same torque to spin. Since the boot pins are usually about the same distance from the heel pivot point, different bindings with the same lateral release setting should take roughly the same amount of linear force to the pins to spin the heel. The difference with heavier non race binding heels is that they usually have a large structure rear of the pivot that you use as a handle to spin them. With those bindings, you apply force at a point much further from the pivot point, so a much smaller force results in the same torque at the pivot point and it feels easier to spin.
3/24/2022
Thanks, Barry. No, the previous-gen Trofeo were much harder to turn than other race bindings. Actually, one thing to add to my review is that the current gen Trofeo are easier to turn, and in line with other race bindings.
Good point on the torque; that could be it. But I suspect that if you go into the shop and turn a bunch of race heels, often shaped very similarly, you'll find significant differences in how hard it is to turn the heel, even if they're "rated" the same for lateral release. You can even turn bindings applying even torque (by adjusting where your hand is) and they will be different.
Good point on the torque; that could be it. But I suspect that if you go into the shop and turn a bunch of race heels, often shaped very similarly, you'll find significant differences in how hard it is to turn the heel, even if they're "rated" the same for lateral release. You can even turn bindings applying even torque (by adjusting where your hand is) and they will be different.
3/24/2022
Great discussion! A longer lever arm definitely helps to turn some heels (one model in particular is almost impossible to turn by hand as there is no leverage). The internals of the binding do matter as well, and things can manifest over time. Some heels break-in with frequent rotation and their lateral retention slowly decreases. Others may see some corrosion that makes them stiffer over time, even to the point of seizing up completely (requiring penetrating lube). Always good to check 'em, even if it's just the ol' hand test.
3/24/2022
Come on, jbo, let's keep this binding review page PG-13 please!
3/24/2022
Sorry, I am passionate about race bindings.
3/24/2022
I can hardly wait to get into my bindings! What pleasure!
3/13/2023
Any day I can use a penetrating lube is a good day, indeed!
Comment on this review:
I’ve had a pair of these under BD rebranding for two seasons now on an 87mm ski w/ Alien 3.0 boots. All my other setups have Dynafit and Plum race bindings, but ATK is now my new favorite, as everything is just so basic yet nicely refined: toe lever operates smoothly, ski crampon slot is easy to attach and has just the right tolerances for crampons, additional riser height is clever and effective (albeit not much higher), and the steel pins avoid wear yet have only a trivial weight penalty compared to the very lightest race models.
7/15/2021
Agree. I use the Trofeos for touring only. The Trofeos are the easiest tech bindings to enter I've used.
Risers are so archaic! Who needs them? With the range of motion of modern AT boots, risers are pointless. Do you wear high heels when hiking uphill on steep trails? Should you? No. That's why you have ankle joints.
Risers are so archaic! Who needs them? With the range of motion of modern AT boots, risers are pointless. Do you wear high heels when hiking uphill on steep trails? Should you? No. That's why you have ankle joints.
7/15/2021
I was so reluctant at first to switch over to race bindings for regular touring -- how would I cope without a far higher riser position?
Answer is, ehh, no big deal.
But every now & then a little bit extra can help, so the Trofeo 180-degree is a nice plus for those rare occasions, yet with zero weight penalty or other complications.
Otherwise, definitely amusing to pass tourers on regular gear who are constantly switching back & forth between various too-high riser positions...
Answer is, ehh, no big deal.
But every now & then a little bit extra can help, so the Trofeo 180-degree is a nice plus for those rare occasions, yet with zero weight penalty or other complications.
Otherwise, definitely amusing to pass tourers on regular gear who are constantly switching back & forth between various too-high riser positions...
2/16/2023
I am very pleased with my binding. I am not sure about the stated 3 heights of possible walk modus ɓAs i see ther are 4 possible walk heights
We have:
1: flat
2: the pins in front Position with flap
3: the Pins in the back with a lower Position without the flap
4. Higher Position with flap in front
Is this correct?
Sebastian
We have:
1: flat
2: the pins in front Position with flap
3: the Pins in the back with a lower Position without the flap
4. Higher Position with flap in front
Is this correct?
Sebastian
2/16/2023
Position #3 is physically possible. But the binding might not be designed to have the boot heel repeatedly coming down on this part of the binding. And heel elevator height from that position is barely any different from #2.
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