Dodge Boots for Alpine Touring

We’ve had a lot of people asking us about a Dodge Boot with Alpine Touring “tech” fittings that would allow the boot to be used with a Dynafit-type binding.

While we don’t offer that option, it’s important to know the Dodge Boot is a very good option for those wanting to “skin” uphill and have the ultimate downhill performance.

“How’s that” you say?

Let’s talk weight.

The Dodge Boot when used with a lightweight EVA liner (similar to an Intuition liner) weighs only 1400 grams.  The popular Dynafit Vulcan AT-only boot weighs in at 1560 grams.

A Dynafit Beast AT-only binding weighs 833 grams.  The Tyrolia Ambition frame binding weighs 1020 grams.

Net difference?  The AT-only set-up weighs 2393 grams.  The Dodge Boot/Tyrolia Ambition binding set-up weighs 2420 grams.  So the difference is 27 grams, (less than a 1 ounce First-Class letter)!
Winner:  AT-only (but only barely)

Now, let’s talk performance.

The Dodge Boot delivers the ultimate in downhill performance, (we’re talking a boot that has been used on the World Cup circuit.)  AT-only boots don’t come close.

The Tyrolia Alpine Touring frame binding (and other similar frame bindings) offer a much better attachment to the skis than an AT-only binding.  So you have better downhill control when you’re skiing down those gnarly couloirs and, because the frame binding is less likely to pre-release, you can ski harder.  (Ask anyone who’s had their skis with AT bindings pre-release.)

Winner:  Dodge/AT frame binding

How about safety?

An AT-only binding simply does not have the safety an Alpine binding has, whether it’s the toe-release or the heel release.

Winner: Dodge/AT frame binding

CONCLUSION:  If you’re doing more touring and not as concerned with you’re downhill performance stick with an AT-only set-up.  BUT, if you’re skinning up so you can poach some serious downhill lines, you should be in a Dodge Boot.


Source Dodge Boots Text and picture ©