Look Pivot 2 18 Review

Overview

The Look Pivot 2 18 (GW) is an all‑metal resort alpine binding built around the iconic PIVOT turntable heel. With an 8–18 DIN range, long elastic travel, and excellent power transfer, it’s a go‑to for advanced and expert skiers who demand retention and shock absorption for freeride, big‑mountain, aggressive all‑mountain, and park.

DIN: 8–18
Elastic travel: toe ≈45 mm (lateral), heel ≈28 mm (vertical)
Brake widths: 75 | 95 | 105 | 115 mm
Weight: ≈2490 g/pair (≈1245 g/binding)
Compatibility: Alpine ISO 5355 A and GripWalk ISO 23223 A (GW variants)

Who it’s for

Riders who truly need high DIN and class‑leading shock absorption/retention.
Freeride and park skiers landing hard, skiing fast, or charging variable snow.
Not ideal for lighter skiers (DIN starts at 8) or anyone frequently swapping boots/BSL.

On‑snow performance

The Pivot’s 180° mechanical toe and turntable heel deliver standout elasticity: it soaks up hits and twisting forces before releasing, reducing unwanted pre‑release. Power transmission is taut with minimal boot/binding play (“Rolling Control”), and the short mounting footprint lets the ski flex naturally—a plus on playful or shorter skis.

Release and safety

Multi‑directional toe release and long elastic travel provide predictable release when it matters. Note: an 8–18 DIN range requires proper shop setup; set your DIN to your charted value, not “as high as possible.” Safety first.

Durability and serviceability

A metal toe and steel/aluminum heel are built for seasons of abuse. Replaceable wear parts and proven construction aid longevity. Trade‑offs: it’s heavier than many competitors, and turntable step‑in can be a touch fussier in deep snow.

Mounting, brakes, and compatibility

Brake options: 75, 95, 105, 115 mm (choose ~5–15 mm wider than your ski waist).
Works with Alpine ISO 5355 A and GripWalk ISO 23223 A soles; not compatible with ISO 9523 touring soles unless using CAST/adapters.
Adjustment range is modest—plan your mount around your boot sole length.

Comparisons

Marker Jester Pro 18: lighter and often easier to step into; Pivot counters with greater total elasticity and a shorter footprint.
Tyrolia Attack 17/18 GW: broad platform and user‑friendly; Pivot typically wins on shock absorption and retention under harsh impacts.
Salomon/Atomic STH2 16: excellent resort binding capped at DIN 16; Pivot serves heavier/harder skiers who truly need 16+.

Pros

Class‑leading elastic travel and shock absorption; fewer pre‑releases.
Powerful, precise feel with minimal play (Rolling Control).
Short mount zone preserves natural ski flex.
All‑metal construction with serviceable parts.
GripWalk compatibility and multiple brake widths.

Cons

Heavier than many alternatives.
DIN starts at 8 (not for lighter/intermediate skiers).
Turntable heel can be slightly slower to step into in deep snow.
Limited BSL adjustment; not ideal if sharing skis.
No ISO 9523 touring sole compatibility without CAST.

Specs explained (what they mean for performance)

Type of binding: Alpine — designed for resort performance, direct power, and strong retention.
DIN 8–18 — wide, high release‑value range for heavier or very aggressive skiers.
Elastic travel (toe ≈45 mm, heel ≈28 mm) — bigger “buffer” before release; reduces pre‑release and smooths impacts.
Brake width (75/95/105/115 mm) — match ski waist with ~5–15 mm margin for proper clearance.
Weight (≈2490 g/pair) — adds solidity and durability; not for uphill/touring use.
Compatibility (ISO 5355 A, ISO 23223 A) — works with Alpine and GripWalk soles; not with ISO 9523 tech/touring soles.
Materials (aluminum, steel) — high stiffness and longevity under hard use.

Key takeaways

Impact retention: standout elasticity curbs pre‑release.
Feel and flex: short footprint preserves your ski’s natural bend.
Built to last: all‑metal strength with a weight penalty.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Who should buy the Look Pivot 2 18?
A: Advanced–expert skiers who need an 8–18 DIN, long elastic travel, and top‑tier retention for freeride, park, and big‑mountain. Lighter or mellower skiers should consider lower‑DIN models.

Q: Will it fit my boots?
A: Yes, if your boots have Alpine ISO 5355 A or GripWalk ISO 23223 A soles. It is not compatible with ISO 9523 touring soles without CAST/adapter systems.

Q: What brake width should I choose?
A: Aim for ~5–15 mm wider than your ski waist (e.g., 102 mm ski → 105 mm brake). That prevents drag or excessive overhang.

Q: How does it compare to the Marker Jester Pro 18?
A: Jester Pro is lighter and a bit quicker to step into; the Pivot 2 18 offers greater elastic travel and often better retention during harsh, off‑axis impacts and spins.