Last tested
2023
Status:ongoing
2024

Vertical

A collaboration between Spark R&D and Nitro Snowboards for a high-quality binding. Technology and experience come together in a noteworthy product
  • Buyer’s Guide reviews
  • In words
  • Technical specifications

Buyer’s Guide reviews

Characteristics
Speed in use
Highback rigidity
Strap comfort
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The charts show our impressions from testing
Product info
Category average
Performance profile
Alpinism
Long hikes
Fun freeride
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Recommended level
Technical Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
High level
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In words

Intro
A collaboration with Spark R&D for their baseplate and binding system, Nitro has customized this binding with some of their own original details.
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On the snow
Take the practicality of the Tesla T1 system and combine it with the comfort of the 3M pad and Nitro-specific straps, highback and toe cap, and you get an intriguingly unique product. The toe cap has the Vibram no-slip insert, and the highback has been given a new reclining mechanism. The climbing wire integrated directly into the baseplate pops down with a handy metal bracket.
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Technical specifications

Negative highback
Yes
Heel lifter
Yes
Heel lock
No
Individual weight
781 gr
Released in
2020
Price
549.9 €
Top stories
Tutorial
Emergency Repairs on Ski Bases

The Skialper tutorials

Tutorial
Maintenance and complete check-up of ski mountaineering bindings

The Skialper tutorials

2025
Thoughts
At the heart of every ski

Editorial

2025
Intro
Test center

Where the snow is always present

2025
Intro
Skimo skins

It's not all about grip

2025
Instruction
Boot lab: Boots under the microscope

The laboratory analysis of flex, walkability, and thermal insulation of ski mountaineering boots

2025
Intro
Skimo poles
2025
Intro
Safety, a culture of doubt

Beyond the basic definition, there’s nothing as variable as snow conditions and the human psyche when under emotional stress. That's why, after purchasing the right self-rescue kit and airbag backpack, it’s paramount you do your research, train, scrutinize your decisions and, if necessary, opt for plan B. And, at least for now, don’t rely on artificial intelligence. 

2025
Race
Light
Tour
Free
Awards
Best bindings 2025

Skiaklper's Awards

2025
Intro
Products for mountaineers

Once you’ve chosen your skis, boots and bindings, your thoughts then turn to harnesses, crampons, ice axe and helmet, though perhaps not everyone, and not straight away. While it’s true that when starting out, especially for those transitioning from resort skiing who just want to start surfing some pow, the important thing is to get self-rescue equipment. It’s equally true, however, that the sport we love is a combination of two words: skiing and mountaineering.

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