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Cripple Creek Backcountry
United States
Приєднався 30 жов 2014
At Cripple Creek Backcountry we are dedicated to everything backcountry skiing. Our passion is going to the backcountry and doing it fast & light. We are located in Colorado, deep in the heart of the Rockies surrounded by the terrain that keeps us inspired to do what we love. Founded in 2011 we are a new store with a new idea of how to do business; do what you love, do it on light gear and always try to have a cold beverage waiting at the end.
Stop by and check us out!
Stop by and check us out!
ATK Hy Free Binding Review
We were lucky enough to get our hands on the New ATK Hy Free, the new hybrid binding from ATK coming to North America in February 2025. Building on bindings like the Salomon Shift and Duke PT, the Hy Free is a true hybrid binding meant to handle the rigors of resort skiing. Unlike it's competitors' takes on a hybrid touring bindings however, the Hy Free keeps it comparatively light at 675 grams and is a much better touring platform.
After our Review of the ATK Hy Free, we were impressed with the downhill performance, which was comparable to high performance alpine bindings. We were also blown away by the quality of manufacturing, which for anyone familiar with ATK shouldn't be a surprise. Our first impression of the binding was overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to putting many more days on the Hy, both in backcountry and resort settings.
As always, feel free to drop a comment or email us at info@cripplecreekbc.com with your thoughts or questions.
After our Review of the ATK Hy Free, we were impressed with the downhill performance, which was comparable to high performance alpine bindings. We were also blown away by the quality of manufacturing, which for anyone familiar with ATK shouldn't be a surprise. Our first impression of the binding was overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to putting many more days on the Hy, both in backcountry and resort settings.
As always, feel free to drop a comment or email us at info@cripplecreekbc.com with your thoughts or questions.
Переглядів: 18 590
Відео
New Scarpa TX Pro Review.
Переглядів 3,7 тис.21 день тому
Telemark skiers rejoice- the new TX Pro is here! Last season, we handed over a new 24/25 TX Pro to Highlands ski patroller Luke Demuth. Over the course of three weeks, Luke worked in the TX Pro every day, putting it through the wringer. We half expected Luke, a self described "dirtbag" and old school telemark skier, to disparage the new boot, but he gave it his full endorsement. With a signific...
Voile Ski Lineup Review
Переглядів 10 тис.Місяць тому
Voile might sound like a French brand, but it is based in the Utah Wasatch Mountains. They started developing backcountry skiing and telemark gear in the 1980s, focusing on keeping their gear lightweight, durable, and handmade right here in the USA. These days, Voile has an incredibly deep catalog of ski shapes, core constructions, and base types. With so many options, the lucky skier can pick ...
Tecnica Tour Pro Boot Review
Переглядів 9 тис.2 місяці тому
After five outstanding years as one of the best touring boots on the market, the Tecnica Zero G Tour Pro Alpine Touring Boot gets a facelift in all the right places. Carefully crafted with a re-engineered frame, anatomical shape, and increased range of motion, these boots are built for your most ambitious backcountry adventures. After using the prototype version last season, Doug was incredibly...
Dynafit Ridge Pro
Переглядів 11 тис.11 місяців тому
Today, Doug's diving deep into the new Dynafit Ridge Pro Touring Boot. The Ridge Pro is a remarkably stiff boot for its 1250-gram weight (26.5 mondo), and with a great range of motion and innovative design, it's certainly worth serious consideration. A lightened-up Hoji Walk mechanism, designed by Eric Hjorleifson, eliminates annoying cuff play and gives this boot its stiff downhill feel. This ...
How To Backcountry Ski: Quick and Easy Skinning Transitions
Переглядів 18 тис.Рік тому
Quick transitions from skiing to skinning are a key tool in the repertoire of an experienced backcountry skier. Not only does a quick transition allow for more laps, but it can also be an important safety consideration. Being able to transition efficiently and without removing skis can be critical on glaciers, steep exposed terrain, or deep powder. Doug Stenclik gives us a quick rundown of how ...
ATK Raider EVO Review
Переглядів 21 тис.Рік тому
The new ATK Raider EVO builds on years of success with the ATK Raider and Freeraider lineup. For people following the backcountry skiing scene, the Raider binding needs little introduction- it has made a name for itself as one of the best lightweight freeride touring bindings ever. The new Evo features a redesigned toe piece with an adjustable release value and a redesigned brake mechanism. Oth...
Scarpa Maestrale RS Review
Переглядів 12 тис.Рік тому
We take a look at the brand new and redesigned 2024 Maestrale RS and Maestrale. The Maestrale has been the flagship boot of Scarpa's touring lineup for years, but for the 2024 season, they have entirely revamped the boot. Scarpa remolded the fit, updated the walk mechanism, gave it a new sole, and updated the liner and closure system. Impressively, even with all this, they still shaved 40 grams...
Basic Skinning Technique
Переглядів 15 тис.Рік тому
Even though skinning is one of the most basic parts of backcountry skiing, it can be challenging to master. Doug Stenclik gives a rundown on some basic skinning techniques and ways to improve your backcountry experience. From proper form going uphill to kick and glide to kick turns, all the small details add up to make a big difference in your enjoyment and efficiency during a day out.
What's In Your Pack - Field Repair Kit
Переглядів 1,8 тис.Рік тому
Do you have the tools to get back to the car when your gear doesn't work quite as you'd like? Doug and Angus take a peak into Angus's bag of mysteries to see what a wise old backcountry sage has with him at all times. While everyone's kit is different, it's worth taking the time to think through your gear and ensure you'll be able to handle those days when things don't work out as planned.
F1 LT Review
Переглядів 7 тис.2 роки тому
The F1 LT has been one of our go-to boots in the sub-1000 gram category since its inception. We've found ourselves using the F1 LT on the biggest, most consequential mountaineering lines, everyday fitness laps in the resort, and everything in between. The LT is a true swiss army knife of a boot and has been copied by many other manufacturers looking for high-performance sub 1000-gram touring bo...
Skimo Race: The Gear you Need
Переглядів 11 тис.2 роки тому
Ever wondered what gear you need to get into skimo racing, or are you simply looking for the lightest touring gear in the world? We go over skimo skis, boots, bindings, and skins, and talk about the advantages and shortcomings of ultralight gear. This is some of our favorite gear to talk about and sell because it's so niche and so specialized. If you enjoy moving through the mountains as fast a...
Scarpa Quattro First Look
Переглядів 12 тис.2 роки тому
Scarpa is jumping onto the Gripwalk, hybrid ski touring boot bandwagon with their new Quattro XT. With a full, alpine-style overlapping shell and a stiff 130 flex we are incredibly stoked about how hard the Quattro skis. However, weighing only 1522 grams in a 27.0 and with an awesome walk mode, we think the Quattro tours better than almost any other Gripwalk boot out there. We can't wait to kee...
Backcountry Skiing Pre-Season Gear Checklist
Переглядів 3,9 тис.2 роки тому
Backcountry Skiing Pre-Season Gear Checklist
Sizing and Choosing an Alpine Touring Skin
Переглядів 5 тис.2 роки тому
Sizing and Choosing an Alpine Touring Skin
How to Size Your Alpine Touring Boots
Переглядів 20 тис.4 роки тому
How to Size Your Alpine Touring Boots
Grand Traverse Preparation Part 2 (Packs, Shelters, Hydration)
Переглядів 1,3 тис.7 років тому
Grand Traverse Preparation Part 2 (Packs, Shelters, Hydration)
Grand Traverse Preparation Part 1 (Boots, Bindings, Skis)
Переглядів 3,1 тис.7 років тому
Grand Traverse Preparation Part 1 (Boots, Bindings, Skis)
Chile: Villarrica Volcano Summit & Ski Descent (4K)
Переглядів 1 тис.7 років тому
Chile: Villarrica Volcano Summit & Ski Descent (4K)
Thank you so much!! I noticed that my skis were starting to chip and get damaged and I didn’t know how to properly address the problem but after a little research I came across your video and it’s perfect! Is there a specific super glue you recommend and what should I do to prep my skis before applying the glue to the damage?
did the super glue end up working for you i’m having the same issue
How do I get these asap? The launch edition seems to be sold out.
How does it compare to the Dynafit Rotation?
Hi Is there gap between the ski boot and ski in toe area ?
i still use a brand new T2 eco from last year. How does it compared?
What are the differences with the Fritschi Tecton? Pros/Cons
Tecton doesn't have an alpine toe, instead it has an adjustable release toe. Tecton has a much more neutral walk mode, with two risers as well I'd imagine it has a higher riser setting than the Hy Free. You can also rip skins and transition to ski mode without talking your skis off with the Tectons. Roughly 80 grams lighter as well.
I have this issue - when I align the binding for one boot, second one is misaligned like in the video. Is it possible the boots are defective?
What was it like doing step and firm traverses in tour mode? Could see the pin height being an issue or helpful
Does the mount pattern match the Raiders or is it a completely new pattern? Thanks for the review!
I’m interested in this too, same bolt pattern or does it need a new mount and jig even?
I am not sure about the front unit but the heel unit has the same Raider power plate.
Great video! Thanks!
Can you switch from downhill to touring without stepping out of the toe?
No, you have to step out so you can flick the toe up to expose the pins.
daaaamn those are pretty
The Marker Kingpin m-works are 620g.
Yes, but m-works have toe piece with pins, can`t compare them by my opinion.
A zoom in on the parts of the binding you’re talking about would be great.
Aren't we comparing this to bindings with 12mm elastic travel, Kingpin and 47mm shift, weight aside, and purchase lever, this binding seems to be delivering low elasticity to weight ratio that seems more looks than function???? Your skis don't flex properly, or at least as designed, ATK are in my mind more capable than this.
I also don't get the "with 675 g it's significantly lighter than any other hybrid binding we've seen in the past" statement. Is the Kingpin not a hybrid binding anymore? The M-Werks Kingpin weighs 655 g. Makes this video sound more like ATK marketing talk than anything else. And I'm a fan of ATK, but this is not it.
@@robvolk In our minds that comment was more directed at bindings like the Shift, Duke PT, and Cast systems. The Kingpin and Tecton are both lighter than the Hy Free, but they still have a tec toe, while the HY Free has an alpine style toe in downhill mode.
@@cripplecreekbackcountry6800 Fair enough.
I have no idea where the 47mm of elastic travel number on the shift comes from, you’re either in or you’re out of that binding and it feels like there’s very little elastic travel in the heel before the out happens…
@@brookscurran you have only to understand how to adjust it correctly, it's easy done, but just as easy to mess up.
very cool video and so early on these I havent skied touring bindings before, so these are not really different from a normal binding when skiing the resort? or is there a better binding, if i dont mind the extra weight
Cast Pivot or Marker Duke for big compromise on uphill weight, but no compromise downhill. Shift for medium compromise both ways. Fritschi Tecton for maybe 60% touring, 40% resort.
@@ChickenKhorma thanks :)
How much toe elasticity does it have? 8:45 - "The real advantage of [the shimmed AFD/ is that you're not going to have any strange pre-releases and failures from that plate slipping up and down". Whatever could he be referring to there? The behavior he's describing sounds pretty Shifty... (seriously, I use Shifts on my powder skis, and as long as you keep an eye on that screw every couple weeks and position it on the most solid part of the "step" it's OK).
Hey, we aren't trying to name names, but there was certainly one binding that came to mind when we said that...
What causes the prerelease with shifts? Is it because the afd drops after being set so there is now a gap? I've been trying to figure mine out for years. I shoot for being able to slide a biz card with some friction.
How does it compare to the ski trab tr1?
This is exactly the question!
But can you compare them to tr1? I would say probably not since they are different concept to begin with. ATK are not using pin toe piece in riding mode.
Didn't understand why no DIN certification. Given what they are trying to achieve with this binding (and also price point), seems that being able to cite a DIN is a must.
They may also be awaiting approval on the cert.
Great overview. Haven’t seen a demo in English so this was great to see. Excited to see more options and innovation for the hybrid binding space. I’ve been running the Feeeraider 15 EVO and they’ve been fantastic
SKi trab Tr1 is lighter! And significantly cheaper 🙂
But the Tr1 has just a front part with pins. It does not "transform" for the downhill in a fully alpine binding. The ATK Hy binding is the equivalent to the Salomon Shift, similar technology only lighter.
@@alltoone no - its not a shift by any means as its not DIN certified.
@hansi26 I never said it is DIN certified, but it will compete directly with the shift as both they offer a similar resort binding downhill mode. I am looking forward to see what the renowned freeriders will say about this binding as for sure there will be many interested to test one.
Ski trab tr1 has lateral elasticity in the front. From my experience I can't tell the difference between this and most downhill bindings.
@@hansi26true, and actually works/mostly metal unlike the shift which is junk.
Not a review just an overview!
Sounds amazing. Although I'll probably wait until price comes down a bit. ATK site says 799 Euro rn which is over 2x the Shifts.
Once it will get past the limited edition and will be released for full market sales you can get it with discounts. The suggested retail price will not drop as it is the case with any ATK binding but there are always discounts available. Especially here in Europe several times a year you can find something like an ATK Freeraider 15 EVO with a 10, 15 % discount.
Deepest dive since the embargo, thanks Cripple Creek crew 🤘
Great. Scarpa need a 32 mondo size please..... I would love to get out of my 75MMs....
Wait what?! 26.5 and an 11 running shoe? That doesn’t compute. You mean 26.5 mondo? I must be missing something.
I agree, maybe this guy wears his running shoes crazy large? I wear an 11.5 running shoe and while I'm not the most aggressive downsizer, a 26.5 mondo ski boot would give me permanent foot damage.
Doug is a bit of a maniac with his ski boots and likes to aggressively downsize, so he has been using the 26.5 mondo size. That being said, his is in the process of replacing his prototype Tour Pro with a production model in a 27.5 mondo. But we would concur that downsizing that much is going to destroy most people's feet!
@@cripplecreekbackcountry6800 I figured. Just so out of the norm - by two whole sizes - so strange to throw out those numbers so casually without any disclaimer.
After being on these for almost a month: 1) bellows do soften quite a bit - you can ski low if you want 2) WAY more orsional rigitity than the old boots - if your technique was tuned to your old worn out tx pros you might notice being a bit out of position at times until you adjust. 3) walking performance is NIGHT AND DAY compared to the previous generation - I have gotten some ice in the walk lever once but its easily cleared with a leatherman or similar 4) the sole on the toe is a little shaved down compared to a new pair of previous gen boots - handy if you are stepping into Meidjo with brakes as it's easier to get into the pins - Lynx also easy (and no issues with the claw on my setups) - perhaps a bit looser feeling on a frame binding like the Outlaw / X. If your old boots were really worn on the toe you might not notice a difference. looking forward to seeing what the Comp version skis like
Anyone else with this boot and 22 Designs Lynx bindings feel like the second heel/duck butt is a little loose/sloppy vertically? When the boot heel is all the way downs theres maybe 2-3mm of vertical space between the butt and the claw. I have preloads on both springs and my new TX Pro boots still flop up and down enough to be annoying. This is my first NTN boot/binding setup, so maybe theyre always a little loose. Laterally, everything is tight and good and overall I like the boots a lot.
22 Designs has a replacement plate to tighten it up. It shouldn’t be loose. You probably shouldn’t be on them until you get that switched.
Hmm, I'm aware of the new plates and I have the new plates, but what's new is just the shape of the plate tail. The new design is convex. The older design is concave and the edges would get bound in the ramp of the second heel. I did experience that issue, got the concave plates and the issue has been resolved. The issue I'm describing here is vertical (up/down) slop between the claw and second heel when in ski mode.
Cool to see so much in common with my review! I can totally see a patroller liking these. I still think they leave some things on the table for the hardcore chargers out there who are more focused on downhill. After 6 days of uphill I gotta say I love how much better they tour than the old boots, but I am sticking to my guns, the last generation skis downhill better.
Will the comps have tech inserts?
Yes, the 25/26 Comps will have a front tech insert.
Ive found it very hard to ski. Extremely stiff and i had a hard time "feeling" the bend through a turn. The cuff is so stiff, it almost hurts when you do a real tele turn. Maybe i get used to it, but thus far not a fan.
I adjusted the cuff to max forward lean and made big difference T20 ( torque head 20) and used flat head to get it to move
@@donsigalet7620 This is great advice! Also, like Luke mentioned in the video, the bellows do soften up quite a bit after use.
Scarpa CEO Kim Miller has already confirmed an updated TX comp coming for winter 25/26
Yes! The new 2025/2026 TX Comp is confirmed. Prototype pictures we have seen look very similar to the TX pro, but with a stiffer cuff.
for a minute I thought that you tele-d. Still good advice.
I find the Liner OK except for the stiff-ish tongue, which instantly gives me shin pain. Stiff compared to most alpine liners and also Intiutions, so bit of an outlier. All the other fit changes play out quite well for me (I have a mediu/narrow foot if that makes sense, can ski most 97/98 alpines with some 6th toe punch)
Love Voilé skis. Wish they would simplify their lineup for construction types. It’s pretty confusing with all the different construction types combined with all their different models. Love their fish scale skis.
Can we get a review on the tx93? considering adding it to my quiver in the wasatch as a steep and firm condition ski/everyday driver. Would also love to hear how you sized the length of it for your height.
It would have been helpful if you demonstrated the proper procedure for measuring his feet to determine the shell size before you did the shell fit. Many skiers do not know their mondopoint size. Often we have people bring in boot’s they have ordered on line that don’t fit properly. I always start by doing a proper measurement with a mondopoint scale. I measure the feet unweighted then have the customer stand and weight the foot to observe what happens to the toes, arch, instep and ankle. Then we proceed from there.
How does it compare to the Quattro? ROM, fit, flex?
How well could this boot ski a 184 Deathwish Tour (112, 1750g)? Should I look at the quattro pro instead?
Hey John, thanks for reaching out! Both of those boots will drive the Deathwish Tour. It will really come down to fit and which one latched onto your foot better. The Zero G has a little bit more room in the instep and the Quattro has a low instep. Feel free to hit me up at info@cripplecreekbc.com if you have any other questions!
got any reccomendations for liners that tour but also add more bulk to the calf for this?
The Intuition Pro Tour Low Volume or the Tour Wrap liner would be a great replacement to take up some space in the calf. Feel free to hit me up at info@cripplecreekbc.com if you have any other questions!
You look a lot like Ben Stiller
How are the cuff rivets on the new ones compared to the previous? My last two pairs were completely flogged out and loose
How does it compare against the Atomic XTD Carbon 120 or the Fischer TransAlp Carbon Pro?
Hey! The Zero G Pro is much stiffer than the Atomic XTD Carbon 120 or the Fischer TransAlp Carbon Pro, and skis way harder. The boot articulation is a bit less on the Zero G boots. Feel free to hit me up at info@cripplecreekbc.com if you have any other questions!
How durable are these, particularly those loop buckles and the, presumably, thin plastic shell & toe lugs?
The previous generation of Tour Pros was surprisingly durable. We didn't see any issues with cracked plastic or the toe lugs, and we've only seen the wire buckles fail after extreme use/abuse. The new generation has thinned the plastic a bit, but they are using the same construction as the Zero-G Peak line, which has now been in use for several years without us seeing unexpected failures. Overall, for a boot this light, we'd say it's extremely durable.
You didn't mention that the forward lean is more aggressive. Previous years 12-13 degrees and new version is up to 16 degrees.
You're right! The only thing worth mentioning is that the default is 14 degrees, and you can get it up to 16 with the spoiler provided by Tecnica. However, compared to last year's model, the forward lean from the walk mode is not adjustable.
Can you do boot comparison videos. It’s almost impossible to see reviews comparing technica v Lange v Fischer v scarpa… fit, performance, function, durability, features
We have a couple videos like this in the works!
So I was up in marble one day, and your overstoked crew came up the skin track, all excited and acting like you were extreme experts on all things backcountry. Well, we were all up at the top near each other, then your crew skied down. OMG, you guys were terrible, couldn’t ski for shite. There was another guy up top who I asked who that crew was?, and he told me, bunch of east coast trustfund goobers that recently bought their way into the mountains. Naturally, ugh.
We try to support all folks interested in getting into the backcountry, regardless of socioeconomic background or skill level, and we always encourage proper backcountry etiquette and education. That being said, we're glad you were up there to show people how to make some nice turns on the way down!
Hater’s got to hate
Terrible, New York trustfund baby transplant, ugh. Is there one person actually from the mountains in Colorado? Or any mountain town out west? It’s beyond pathetic.
Slightly more flex than a Scarpa F1? I hope you do not mean the regular F1 which is a very soft boot with a 90 flex.
nice turns!!