In an exciting move for the skiing community, Salomon has just announced the launch of the Shift2 16 MN, an innovative hybrid ski binding that elevates performance to new heights. With a release value capacity of up to 16, this latest addition significantly improves upon its predecessors and is set to become a staple for aggressive skiers.
The Shift2 16 MN is designed for versatility, blending the strengths of both uphill and downhill skiing. Users can easily switch between modes with a simple flip of the ‘Hike and Ride Switch’ on the toe. This feature allows the toe wings to expose pins that fit touring boot tech toe fittings, facilitating effortless uphill climbs—similar to a traditional tech binding. For downhill descents, simply close the toe wings, and you're set to enjoy a robust alpine binding experience.
Salomon's partnership with Atomic has yielded impressive results, with this binding being crafted alongside top athletes like Daron Rahlves, Tonje Kvivik, and Craig Murray. The collaborative effort ensures that the Shift2 16 MN meets the demanding requirements of serious all-mountain and big-mountain skiers. The combination of uncompromising power during descents and efficiency while touring is a testament to its design, making it a must-have for adventurous winter enthusiasts.
The core of the Shift2 16 MN features a robust Micro AFD with an integrated aluminum Power Block, significantly enhancing lateral stiffness. This design aspect is key to achieving superior power transfer and precision on the slope. Its reinforced baseplate uses metal and rubber components to improve stability and effectively absorb vibrations, allowing for a smoother ride even in variable conditions.
Another standout feature of the Shift2 16 MN is its innovative 3-Part Power Heel. This design maximizes shock absorption and retention for skiers navigating demanding big-mountain terrains. Coupled with the full-aluminum Hike and Ride Switch, the transition between uphill and downhill becomes both intuitive and strong.
Weighing in at 1210 grams, the Shift2 16 MN may be slightly heavier than its predecessor, the Shift2 13, which weighs around 925 grams per binding. However, the added weight comes with significant enhancements in terms of power and stability.
One of the key benefits of the Shift2 16 MN is its Multi Norm Certification (MN), making it compatible with all normed ski boot soles currently on the market, including ISO 5355, ISO 9523, and ISO 23223. This ensures that skiers can enjoy a seamless experience, regardless of their boot type.
With an MSRP of $970 USD, the Shift2 16 MN is positioned as a premium option for adventurous skiers who seek the best in hybrid technology. Salomon's commitment to delivering high-quality gear that meets the demands of serious athletes is evident in this new offering, which is set for full release later in 2026.
Whether you're carving through backcountry lines or tackling technical terrain, the Salomon Shift2 16 MN promises to deliver the performance and reliability you need. As we begin our long-term testing of the binding, we’re excited to see how it holds up in real-world conditions. Stay tuned for updates as we put the Shift2 16 MN through its paces on the slopes.