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Marker is one of the trusted titans of the binding scene. The “Royal Family” line of bindings has set the standard for alpine and frame bindings for a decade. Despite the lighthearted implications of its name, the Jester is their most serious downhill binding.
It’s been favored by big, aggressive freeride skiers who need their ski binding to hold their boot like an eagle claw around a salmon’s belly. Despite the trappings of tenure, the 2021 Jester holds up to standard. This year’s model is fully updated with some exciting features that make marked improvements to a proven design.
The Jester is a burly ski binding, that much has stayed the same. The biggest update to this year’s model is the expanded boot sole compatibility, so they pretty much work with any alpine boot, along with 95243 touring boots. They’ve also rebuilt part of the toe and heel housing from magnesium to save on weight and add a little more stiffness for driving power.
If, for some reason, this isn’t enough for you the Jester 18 ID Pro model is just what you’re looking for.
The Jester 16 is major overkill for the majority of skiers, but it has a wide enough DIN range to be acceptable for nearly any adult. There are cheaper, more practical options on the market, but none of them do quite the job that the Jester can when it comes to freeride playfulness and stomp-power.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Truly one of the hardest-skiing ski bindings on the market -
With the magnesium toe and ice scrape bar, you won’t break it
Things we don't like:
The rigid heel can be difficult to get onto your foot if conditions aren’t perfect- Realistically too much binding for most skiers
The rigid heel can be difficult to get onto your foot if conditions aren’t perfectWhere to buy:
Specs & Features
- Type: Alpine
- Weight (per binding) 1070g
- Din Range: 6-16
- Boot sole type: Alpine, GripWalk, Touring
Related Reviews
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Truly one of the hardest-skiing ski bindings on the market
-
With the magnesium toe and ice scrape bar, you won’t break it
Things we don't like:
- The rigid heel can be difficult to get onto your foot if conditions aren’t perfect
- Realistically too much binding for most skiers
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