G3 goes big with lightest, fully-featured AT tech binding, retooled climbing skin line
January 9, 2018
G3 also adds new carbon ski, airbag pack, for a line that rounds out G3’s collection of world-class backcountry skiing equipment.
At the upcoming Outdoor Retailer winter show, G3, makers of premium backcountry ski and snowboard equipment, will launch an array of new backcountry-specific products for the 18/19 winter season, including an all-new tech binding, the ZED – the lightest, fully-featured AT binding on the market. G3 will also introduce an all-new collection of ALPINIST+ and SPLITBOARD+ skins, which make it easier for skiers and boarders to choose the right skins for their local conditions, as well as the playful SEEKr, the latest addition to G3’s family of versatile lightweight carbon-fiber touring skis. And adding an entirely new category for the brand, G3 will introduce the CABRIO 30 backcountry pack, which can be used with or without an avalanche airbag system.
Weighing in at just 345 grams, the new ZED binding seamlessly blends lightweight uphill capability with the durability and more fully-featured release and retention capabilities of a much heavier AT binding. Building upon the simple, durable and easy-to-use design of G3’s legendary ION binding, engineers re-examined every single part, screw and mechanism to evolve the idea of a fully-featured binding at the lightest weight possible. The ZED’s toe piece uses unique jaw dynamics that absorb up to 50 percent more energy, compared to other tech bindings, before releasing. That means skiers can ski confidently in ski mode without the fear of prerelease. In addition, the heel turret has fore and aft travel, which also allows for more consistent release and retention in the heel. As well, the heel turret uses a wide center frame that helps more effectively transfer power to the ski and allows for easy installation of optional brakes. Two risers offer different heights for climbing.
New ALPINIST+ skins build on G3’s decades of experience building premium skins and the collection has been designed for maximum on-snow performance as well as to help simplify the process of selecting a climbing skin. With Universal (the classic 100% ‘Alpinist plush’), Grip (the historical 100% nylon High Traction plush), Glide (70% mohair, 30% nylon), Speed (100% nylon) and Pow options, skiers have access to an array of choices from the ALPINIST+ collection that make it easy to understand which skin is best suited for the terrain, local conditions and skier preference. All ALPINIST+ skins are focused on providing the best performance, featuring a polyurethane tip that eliminates snow creep, improves overall glide, and prolongs the life of the adhesive. The camming tail connectors – both Alpinist+ and Splitboard+ – are easily adjustable, eliminate unnecessary drag and allows for quick transitions.
The new SEEKr is G3’s latest performance touring ski; a modern, playful ski that’s easy to maneuver while maintaining versatility and inspiring confidence at speed. The new SEEKr 100, women’s SEEKr 100 Elle, and SEEKr 110 are designed for skiers looking for a lightweight, playful ski that excels in soft snow as well as across varying conditions. Weighing in at less than 3 pounds per ski (110mm in a 164), the SEEKr uses G3’s unique FLYRIDE+ construction, which blends four layers of carbon fiber and a poplar/paulownia wood core with G3’s polyurethane (PU) sidewalls. PU sidewalls in a ski this light are a unique offering from G3, and create a ski that’s light for the uphill but with a damp feel that can handle any condition on the down, not just soft snow. A durable nylon top sheet helps shed snow and ice.
Finally, G3 is introducing its first fully-featured backcountry pack for the 18/19 season, including the option for an integrated/removable avalanche airbag safety system. The CABRIO 30 is designed for skiers, boarders and other backcountry travelers and can be used with or without the Alpride airbag system – one of the lightest, simplest and smallest technologies available. The combination makes for a great backcountry pack with 30L of functional space for gear. Durable construction and a versatile carry system allows users to carry skis and other backcountry tools in a variety of configurations.
About G3
Based in Vancouver, B.C., G3 Genuine Guide Gear Inc manufactures industry-leading gear for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. It has been producing avalanche safety equipment since 1995. The G3 product line includes skis, splitboards, alpine touring ski bindings, ski packs, poles, climbing skins, avalanche shovels, probes and other ski accessories. G3 was founded on the principle that gear built for backcountry guides should be manufactured to the highest standards, which has helped the company to gain a reputation as an industry innovator. For more information, visit www.genuineguidegear.com or like us on Facebook at facebook.com/genuineguidegear.
– XXX –