The 500 is the most versatile AT Binding available on the market today. Its unique toe/heel bail combination make it compatible with virtually any boot-AT, alpine, tele, mountaineering, be it leather or plastic. Bomb-proof design and construction have made it a favorite of ice climbers and mountaineers for years. It’s DIN rating and solid performance have won over skiers of the highest caliber. Tough carbon-fiber frame provides super lightweight durability. Super easy entry and exit. Two position heel elevators keep you comfortably on your toes on those long uphills. Available crampons and brakes can be used simultaneously. 3 lbs. 8 oz. of reliable Silveretta quality. Sizes: short, standard, long.
hmronnow - Aug 14, 2003 3:46 pm - Voted 4/5
Untitled ReviewExcept for the Dynafit tri-step, which only works with few specific touring-boots, Silvretta 500 has a competitive weight. They are the lightest I have found to work with mountaineering boots (drop a mail if you know alternatives). Combined with short skis and the light Koflach boot I have a light comfortable ascent set.
On descents, they lift the boot up from the ski, giving better edging than e.g. the tri-step. Given the short skis and soft boots, I have not put the binding under extreme forces, but it has released when it should - and only then. One problem is that after side releases, the heel-plaque sometimes gets stuck and has to be forced back in place. (they loose one star for this)
I bought these second hand and have beatem them well myself. Still I think they will hold up for many years to come.
Notice, the price in US seems quite high. Last time I looked, they were 150 Euros in France. At end of season, rental places often sell used skis with bindings for closee to nothing. The skis are generally useless, but if you can find a pair with Silvretta 500s on you may get a bargain.
In summary, I am very happy with my bindings, and would highly recommend them.
web-site: www.silvretta.de