AF89 designs high‑performance ski bindings that combine independent lateral and vertical release adjustments with a multi‑axis alpine heel for precise, predictable release. The system features forward pressure and BSL tuning, self‑stowing toe brakes, and customizable colors and engravings, delivering improved power transfer, edge control, and safety for advanced skiers.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional ski bindings often force a trade‑off between downhill performance and touring convenience, and they provide limited adjustability for release forces, leading to suboptimal safety and control for diverse skiing styles.
Solution
AlpenFlow’s AF89 is a hybrid ski binding that combines the ease of a pin‑type system with performance comparable to alpine bindings. Its multi‑axis heel independently tunes lateral and vertical release values across a 5‑13 “Z” range, allowing precise safety settings for different boots and terrain. A 30 mm forward pressure/BSL adjustment maintains consistent boot contact as the ski flexes, improving power transfer and edge hold. Integrated, self‑stowing toe brakes eliminate manual deployment and prevent accidental ski movement, while a flip‑up toe lever enables quick transition between touring and downhill modes. The binding is offered in a wide palette of factory colors and can be custom‑engraved, providing both functional and aesthetic personalization.
Target Audience
Target customers are advanced recreational skiers and backcountry enthusiasts who require high‑performance downhill control without sacrificing touring efficiency, as well as ski shops seeking a versatile, customizable binding solution.
Features
- Independent lateral and vertical release adjustment on the heel piece (5‑13 “Z” range) for tailored safety settings
- 30 mm forward pressure and BSL adjustment to keep consistent boot contact, enhancing power transfer and edge control
- Multi‑axis alpine heel with massive springs and 40 mm recentering travel for superior energy absorption and retention in varied terrain
- Self‑stowing toe brakes that automatically deploy when the boot is released and retract for seamless entry
- Flip‑up toe lever that locks out rotation for touring and unlocks for downhill skiing
- Customizable color options for every component and optional laser engraving on the heel piece
- Pin‑binding convenience with performance metrics matching traditional alpine bindings