Pivot bindings work by utilizing a turntable heel piece that swivels around the tibia axis, coupled with a short mounting area, to provide record elastic travel, helping to prevent unexpected releases and respecting the ski's natural flex.
Ski bindings are a critical connection between your boots and skis, designed to hold you in securely while allowing release during a fall to prevent injury. Pivot bindings are a specific type known for their distinctive design and performance characteristics, primarily focused on reliable retention and release.
Key Features Explained
Based on their design, Pivot bindings incorporate several key features that contribute to their function:
- Turntable Heel Piece: This is the most visually striking and functionally significant part of a Pivot binding. Unlike traditional heel pieces that typically pivot only upwards, the Pivot's heel rotates horizontally around a central point aligned with the tibia's axis.
- Function: The reference states this piece "swivels around the tibia axis." This rotational capability allows the binding to absorb significant twisting forces during skiing, particularly during dynamic turns or bumps.
- Record Elastic Travel: The design, especially the turntable heel, provides a large range of motion where the boot can move slightly within the binding without causing a release.
- Benefit: According to the reference, this "record elastic travel" is key "to prevent unexpected releases." This means the binding is less likely to pre-release when experiencing vibrations, chatter, or moderate impacts that don't necessarily indicate a fall requiring release.
- Short Mounting Area: The footprint of the binding on the ski is relatively compact.
- Benefit: As noted in the reference, having a "short mounting area" helps "to respect the natural flex of the ski." This allows the ski to bend more freely under your boot, which can improve feel and performance, especially in varied snow conditions or during carving.
In summary, the combination of the unique swiveling heel piece, generous elastic travel, and compact mounting area defines how Pivot bindings function, prioritizing reliable hold through dynamic movements while still providing safety release when necessary.
Practical Benefit Summary:
- Enhanced Retention: Less chance of releasing during aggressive skiing or rough terrain due to high elastic travel.
- Improved Ski Flex: Allows the ski to bend more naturally, potentially leading to better snow contact and performance.
- Consistent Release: Designed to release reliably when twisting forces exceed safe limits, thanks in part to the turntable rotation.
