G3 ZED 12 Binding

Many casual skiers believe that lightweight ski-touring bindings must sacrifice some performance. While we continue to debunk that myth, G3 may have just ended the discussion altogether with the ZED binding. With the proven ION as the foundation, the designers started trimming the fat to minimize mass without compromising ski or release performance.

The ZED is the first “gapless” binding in its weight class with adjustable vertical and lateral release. No heel gap means the release stays consistent throughout the ski flex while offering additional energy and rebound to your skis. In other words, the designers wanted it light without sacrificing safety or ski performance. This will be the sweet spot for folks who want to travel far in the backcountry but aren’t ready to make sacrifices. To that end, G3 incorporated two heel-lifters, 30mm of boot-length adjustment, 10mm of elastic travel, and an optional brake into a clean and compact heel unit with an eye-pleasing lime-green accent.

The toe piece resembles the well-loved ION in many ways. A nice, wide hole pattern transfers power to the edges of even the widest skis and resists pull-out. The jaws are shaped and loaded with spring-strength to clear ice every time they are actuated, and a rubber Boot Stop ensures easy step-in. The G3 ZED is one of the first bindings to get pointed at on our wall.

• Gapless heel with elastic travel along the ski ensures consistent release.
• Toe wing geometry optimizes retention and snow clearance under the springs.
• Boot Stop guides the toe welt of your boot into the binding for fiddle-free entry.
• #3 Pozidrive heads on all adjustment screws simplifies your repair kit inventory.
• Quickly adjusts 30mm for different boot sole lengths, enabling a boot-quiver.
• Combined adjustment screw changes both lateral and vertical release.
• Optional ION crampons allow for quick deployment during icy ascents.
• Optional brakes are easily installed or you can go with leashes (not included).

Update 2019/20: G3 updated the design to not require the use of previously-included stomp pads when skiing the Zed without brakes. They also stiffened the heel compression springs to reduce longitudinal play when skinning.

Update 2020/21: This binding was renamed the ZED 12 to differentiate from the new ZED 9.

Update 2022/23: The ZED 12 is now black for a sleek look that will surely turn more heads.