Marker and Dalbello’s GRIPWALK® receives ISO certification

August 27, 2021

The innovative system to comfortably and easily walk in ski boots to be industry standard.

Lebanon, NH (August 27, 2021) – The International Organization for Standardization has given final confirmation of ISO standard 23223, officially making Marker’s GRIPWALK® patented technology an industry standard beginning this year. The GRIPWALK ski boot and binding system from MDV Sports enables easy, comfortable walking in ski boots and is currently used by virtually all major manufacturers of bindings and ski boots. The ISO standard will ensure compatibility of GRIPWALK products across different brands of bindings and ski boots.

GRIPWALK is a result of the innovative capabilities of Marker and Dalbello and solves the problem of walking in bulky ski boots. The ski boot sole provides skiers more natural heel-toe movement, and the improved grip makes walking significantly safer. Whether walking to the chair or gondola from the parking lot or condo, GRIPWALK makes walking in ski boots easier and more comfortable – for young and old, beginners and experienced skiers alike.

The new ISO 23223 standard provides a precise definition of the sole shape for ski boots with improved walking function (GRIPWALK). ISO 23223 adds a third standard, going along with the existing standards for alpine boots (ISO 5355) and touring boots (ISO 9523). The standard goes into full effect on products developed for the 2022/23 season and beyond.

GRIPWALK was first presented at ISPO in 2016. Marker’s patents describe the incorporation of the technology into both the binding and the boot. While the system was initially only available for Marker ski bindings and Dalbello boots, today virtually all major manufacturers have adopted the technology. More than 20 companies now license GRIPWALK technology, accounting for over 90 percent of the alpine bindings and boots market. MDV Sports estimates that for the 2020/21 winter sports season more than 60 percent of all alpine ski boots and bindings already have GRIPWALK installed or are GRIPWALK compatible.

“There are only a few standards within the ski industry. But uniform systems and joint developments such as GRIPWALK can ensure that safety and comfort improve across manufacturers. That is how we are optimizing collaboration, further developing the range of equipment offered by the outfitters and enhancing the attractiveness of skiing through increased comfort,” says Jonathan Wiant, President of the Marker, Dalbello and Völkl brands.

All compatible ski boots, soles and bindings are TÜV certified and feature the GRIPWALK logo across all manufacturers.

Additional information on GRIPWALK is available at https://www.grip-walk.com.

About Marker

Marker has been synonymous with innovation and safety in skiing for over six decades. Hannes Marker presented the world’s first safety-release ski binding in 1952. In the 1970s, the M series, with its automatic heel release, revolutionised the binding market. Marker has been setting new standards in the freeride and freestyle segment since 2007 with its Duke PT and by continuously expanding the Royal Family. The company is based in Penzberg, Bavaria. It launched its Protective Snow Equipment in the 12/13 season, which includes innovative helmets, goggles and protectors. Marker is the owner of the GRIPWALK® trademark and patent holder. Marker licenses technology and brand to industry partners, including sister companies such as Dalbello and K2. GRIPWALK® is a result of the innovative capabilities of Marker and Dalbello. Responsible for communication, marketing and sales is MDV Sports.

About Dalbello

Ski boots made by the traditional Italian company Dalbello have always been renowned for exceptional quality, finest craftsmanship and high-end design. Back in the 1960s, the company’s founder Alessandro Dalbello gathered experience in the production of ski boots in Switzerland. The first pair of boots to carry the Dalbello brand was sold in 1974, the year the company was established. Dalbello ski boots sell successfully all over the world, thanks to their high quality standards and exceptional fit. Dalbello has been part of the Marker Völkl Group since 2015, but is still based in Casella d’Asolo, Italy.

About Völkl

Völkl has been dedicated to building skis for almost a century. This passionate winter sports brand is the only ski manufacturer still to develop and manufacture in Germany. Völkl’s main factory in Straubing is one of the most advanced ski factories in the world and epitomises the very best of German technology and quality. Its team of development engineers, ski makers, product managers and athletes has made Völkl one of the world’s leading ski manufacturers. Völkl pursues its aim of creating the ultimate equipment for skiers the world over in conjunction with its partners Marker and Dalbello. Marker develops and produces ski bindings, helmets, ski goggles and protectors, while Dalbello is dedicated entirely to the development and production of ski boots.

Media Contact:

Michael Collin
Pale Morning Media
michael@palemorning.com