Grip Walk boot soles and binding systems have been around since 2016, but, as of June 2021, have only now been officially standardised by the International Organization of Standardization (ISO). How does this change your kit choice and what does it mean for you?
In short, not a lot. It is great that Grip Walk is now standardised, but in all honesty Grip Walk boots and bindings have been available for years, working safely.
International Organization for Standardization
Most skiers assume their ski boots and bindings are safe to use together, even if made by different brands. For this to be the case, they need to be designed and tested to work in a variety of situations. This is what the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) takes care of – standardising design criteria so manufacturers can make safe, compatible products.
Up to now, the main two certifications for ski boot sole design were ISO 5355 flat soles for ‘downhill’ skiing and ISO 9523 curved soles for ski touring . You can find out more about these on our page about boot sole and binding compatibility, along with the origins of Grip Walk and which bindings you need to use with Grip Walk soled boots.
The release of the ISO 23223 standard for Grip Walk soles provides a clear and precise definition for the sole shape of Grip Walk soled boots.
Easier to walk in
Ski boots can be tricky to walk in, unless you’re using touring boots. The reason they’re a hindrance for many is the flat sole shape and lack of ankle mobility.
Grip Walk addresses one of these issues, namely getting rid of the flat sole. Grip Walk has a curved rocker under the toe area, giving a far more natural movement. The sole configuration also allows manufacturers to include grippy rubber areas. This greatly improves (hence Grip Walk).
A good number of Grip Walk boots also have a walk mode. When released, this mode permits a greater range of motion (ROM) in the ankle area. This can help with the other issue when walking in ski boots, namely the stiff, rigid design required for skiing. This is, however, not a feature of the new ISO 23223 Grip Walk standard. It’s simply a design element of certain styles of boots; typically for freeride and freetour skiing, as well as some all-mountain style boots.
Grip Walk was originally created by Dalbello ski boots and Marker bindings. It has has since been adopted by the majority of ski boot and binding brands. It’s use has become widespread in recent seasons. Therefore having this level of standardisations is a huge benefit to skiers. It means we can be confident our boots and bindings, if both Grip Walk certified, will work safely together.
What does this mean for me?
Despite Grip Walk only just being ISO standardised, Grip Walk boots and bindings have been manufactured to work safely together for years already. If you already own Grip Walk boots or Grip Walk ready bindings, the chances are they will be perfectly safe.
As with all ski kit, it’s a good idea to check the boots and bindings for wear and tear, replacing parts as necessary. If you’re unsure about the compatibility, or safety, of your set-up visit your local ski shop who’ll be able to help you out.
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Like to read more about Grip Walk? They’ve created a whole site to help; Grip-Walk.com
Want to see more of what Dalbello’s got to offer, you can visit their site at Dalbello.it/en.
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