G3 Genuine Guide Gear introduces the ION freeride touring binding for Fall 2014, offering unparalleled performance in a binding that is more powerful, precise, and intuitive than any alpine touring binding in its category. All new from the creative minds at G3, the ION’s elegant design combines superior power transfer and energy absorption with exceptional retention in an incredibly lightweight, intuitive alpine-touring binding that weighs only 585 g (1 lb. 4.6 oz.) per binding with a brake.

Designed for backcountry skiers of all types, the ION is plenty light for long ski tours, but offers the power and predictable retention to complement a modern freeride skier’s performance needs. Built with high strength aluminum, premium hot forged components, and metal-to-metal threaded connections, the ION has everything you need and nothing you don’t, making it both lightweight and durable.

Forward heel pressure assures that the ION has constant contact with the ski boot heel for energy absorption, yielding consistent retention and release values at high speeds in bumps, compressions, and big landings. The constant forward pressure solves one of the biggest reliability challenges tech bindings have faced, alleviates release value changes related to ski flex, and represents a huge win in performance and safety.

The ION features a freeride mounting pattern that is 30% wider than traditional tech bindings with 40mm of space between all four mounting screws for extreme resistance to screw pullouts. The wide toe jaw and tech pin positioning transfers power directly to the edges of the ski enhancing torsional rigidity and providing greater stability and shock absorption.

Thanks to a number of thoughtful design features, the ION is the most intuitive, easy to use tech binding. A bi-directional heel piece turns in either direction to lock in for touring, making the transition between ski and tour mode instinctive and straightforward. A fluid, efficient and confidence-inspiring step-in Boot Stop guidance pops up and locates the boot toe at the correct place for a simple, quick step-in, providing safer transitions in challenging terrain. The QuickFlick Heel Lifts create effortless climbing with easy to grab, ski pole accessible heel risers that provide 2.5, 8 and 14 degrees of lift. Additionally, only one tool (the Pozi#3) is required for all ION mounts and adjustments, so no heel spacer or multi-tool is necessary.

Several safety features make the ION more reliable than any other tech binding on the market. A fully retracting, powerful, alpine-style spring-loaded brake reassures step-in stability and the most consistent brake deployment in its class. A snow-clearing channel allows snow to easily discharge from the toe spring area.  This allows for hassle free step-ins and transitions preventing snow build up or icing which can contribute to unwanted pre-releases.  The ION also has an anti friction device (AFD) that ensures a consistent release for all tech compatible boots regardless of the sole material.

While the ION has a 22 mm adjustment range, a demo/rental version of the ION offers even greater adjustability with a 62 mm range, allowing it to accommodate up to seven mondo point boot sole lengths. Available with 85 mm, 95 mm, 115 mm and 130 mm brakes. $549.95 MSRP.

To learn more about the G3 ION freeride touring binding, please visit: genuineguidegear.com/2014-ion or watch a video of the ION here:

Join G3 designers and engineers at Outdoor Retailer and SIA for the ION launch party and raise a glass of microbrew (Outdoor Retailer booth #34087; SIA booth # 3326) while you check out the new G3 ION, the powerful and intuitive, lightweight freeride touring binding.

Image and video courtesy G3 Genuine Guide Gear