La Sportiva Launches Ultra Light RT Ski Binding for Winter 2010/11

La Sportiva N.A., makers of technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running®, hiking footwear and ski mountaineering hardware, officially enters the ski category with its new RT tech binding. The patented RT tech binding is already extremely popular in the European randonnée ski race world. Weighing in at 175 grams, it’s one of the world’s lightest AT touring bindings.

“La Sportiva is about high-end performance in the mountains. We feel there is a real opportunity to penetrate the US ski market with specialized and focused products designed for discriminating users,“ says Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva North America. “The RT ski binding represents incredible technological innovation in the world of ultra-lightweight engineering. Not only will it offer today’s progressive backcountry skier an alternative in lightweight AT touring bindings, but the RT features a toe release adjustment system with a release value (RV) comparable to 5-10 DIN.This is the first lo-tech binding with a toe release system.”

The RT binding features four patents including a toe release adjustment system (Release Value comparable to 5-10 DIN), a heel with two release adjustments (Frontal 5-10 RV, Lateral 5-10 RV), integrated crampon attachments and heel pins which track in a smooth releasing curved channel. Additionally, the RT binding offers a 3-position heel riser for touring mode.

“Skiing is a part of La Sportiva’s heritage and an obvious extension of our brand. The new RT ski binding is just the beginning of our presence in the ski marketplace,” continues Lantz. “Expect to see the RT binding followed by a 2011 ski line designed and positioned for the ski mountaineer who sees no boundaries.”

The RT ski binding will retail for $700 and will be available at selected specialty retailers in mid-December. Such specialty retailers include: Backcountry.com, Bent Gate Mountaineering and Mountaingear.com.For more information, go to: <http://www.sportiva.com>.