Alpine Touring Binding

An alpine touring binding (also known as an AT binding or randonnée binding) is a specialised ski binding with a releaseable locked down heel that can be used for ski touring and backcountry skiing. Most AT bindings have DIN safety release as in an alpine binding. Specialized alpine touring ski boots are also used, something of a cross between a downhill ski boot and a plastic climbing boot, which are light and flexible enough to be comfortable to walk up in while still being stiff enough to provide good control when skiing down. These boots have soles with traction and the ability to hold a crampon when climbing steep slopes with the skis carried on one's backpack.