Pros: Easily adjustable forward pressure for responsive tele-turns, and effortless touring.
Cons: Not as "bomber" as other options if you are a "go big" skier.
I have simple needs in a tele binding:
1. It has to stay on, and firmly maintain contact. It should not release from torquing on it in crud, and never while skiing an ugly chute.
2. It has to have sufficient lift to carve groomers without drag.
3. It should stay together regardless of the boneheaded things I try (This year, the tele-heli).
4. It has to tour well; light, easy to put on, with a sturdy ascending thingy.
Pretty simple, right? But I've been on more elaborate tele bindings, and while they feel bomber in the bumps, they feel heavy and un-natural while touring.
My Riva's have been mounted on few different skis, and despite my evolving tastes in tele skis, the bindings have continued to perform.
I have a pair of Rottafella Cobra R-4's sitting under my desk. I know they offer better flex, are cool looking etc. but I just don't have the drive to mount 'em. This must mean my Riva's are serving their purpose perfectly, right?
You can spend more, you can spend less, but from my perspective, the Riva is all you really need.
Read more