I would like to get my kit set up with the minimum of outlay for the first winter. I will keep my alpine boots, but expect to look for a Garmont or similar next time round. I don’t believe that I’ll be into doing any hut to hut, or lengthy tours, simply days out, away from the lifts, so the kit that I choose will need to be fun on piste as well. I hesitate to use “one quiver” as I have other skis to use.
I had not read that BCA were planning to stop making the Trekker, useful thanks. They apparently make a specific crampon for the system, which is sold alongside. I’m going to cross the Trekker off my list.
I’m hesitating over your suggestion of the Marker Dukes, as I have read that they are pretty heavy, and also are for higher range DIN than I would want to use, typically 5-7 with my weight. I understand that the Naxo’s have a better ascent hinge than the Fritschi’s, it reads as pretty complicated, has there been any reports of this failing? Is it robust enough for alpine use?
The Fritschis are very popular. I’m looking more favourably towards the Explore, as I don’t need the higher DIN, the current model has a new slippery Teflon covered front release plate, and the binding sits the boot 35mm above the ski, whereas the Freeride is 39mm height.