The Marker Baron EPF 13 offers all the same features, performance and functionality as it's souped-up sibling, the Duke EPF, but caters for skiers who don't need such a high DIN release setting. Crucially the less aggressive DIN spring also shaves off 300 grams of weight per pair compared to the Duke - great when you consider that every gram underfoot equates to four on the back. Built with descents in mind, the Baron is a no-nonsense binding that's great for freetourers who want the feel, performance and safety features of a traditional alpine binding, but with the ability to release the heel for backcountry ascents.
A power boost for chunky skis
The Baron's chassis utilises Marker's Extended Power Frame, or EPF for short, giving it a footprint 46mm wider than standard frame bindings. This super-charges the skis handling by encouraging greater energy transfer from boot-to-binding-to-edge, particularly on wider skis, this in turn reduces response time and dramatically enhances edge hold - ideal on exposed, wind scoured faces.
Left, right, left, right, kick turn, repeat…
Nobody truly enjoys hiking, anyone who says they do is a bare-faced liar, but the trade-off is always more than worth the effort - congestion-free untracked powder. It goes without saying then that any features which make the ascent a little less arduous are a huge bonus; the Baron boasts its fair share of these. Firstly, the Hollow Tech frame is manufactured using gas-injection moulding, creating…well…a hollow frame - cutting overall weight and in turn lessening your load. Another of these burden-beaters is the walk-mode positioning; with walk-mode engaged, the binding centres 40mm further back than “ski†mode. This positions the foot closer to the tail creating a better-balanced ski and making kick-turns easier. This is rounded off with a multi-angle hiking aid which is easily adjusted with a ski pole depending on the terrain gradient.
A freetouring favourite since its introduction, the Marker Baron EPF 13 bundles safety, performance and a function together into a go-anywhere, slay-anything package that's suitable for the vast majority of backcountry-goers regardless of ability or experience.
•Hollow Tech
•Extended Power Frame
•AFD gliding toe plate
•Inter Pivot heel
•Backcountry functionality
•Sole.ID
•Power width design
•0°, 7° & 13° climbing aid
•Triple Pivot Elite toe
•Crampon compatible