Look NX 11 Review

The Look NX 11 (also sold as NX 11 GW) is a lightweight alpine binding for resort skiers who prioritize easy step‑in, predictable release, and, in the GW version, GripWalk compatibility. With a 3.5–11 DIN range and generous toe elasticity, it suits beginners up through progressing intermediates and lighter advanced riders who don’t need a 12+ DIN.

Who it’s for

• Beginner to intermediate resort skiers, juniors moving to adult gear, and lighter adults.
• Piste and light all‑mountain use; not intended for touring or heavy freeride.
• Alpine (ISO 5355) or GripWalk (ISO 23223) boots—choose the GW version if you use GripWalk.

On‑snow performance and release

• Retention vs release: The FDC toe’s 45 mm lateral elastic travel and 180° multi‑directional release help absorb chatter and reduce unwanted pre‑releases, while releasing predictably in twisting or upward falls.
• Heel feel: 12 mm of vertical travel offers adequate suspension for resort skiing. It’s not as elastic as Look Pivot heels, but it’s consistent and confidence‑inspiring in the intended use range.
• Power transfer: The wide mounting zone gives decent contact on modern, mid‑width skis, helping stability without adding bulk.

Ease of use and adjustability

• Step‑in/out: The NX heel is among the easiest step‑ins in this class. The long lever makes exiting simple—great for newer skiers.
• Setup: As with any binding, have a certified shop mount and set DIN/forward pressure to your boot, weight, and ability.

Build, weight, and durability

• At about 915 g per binding, the NX 11 is light for daily resort use and easy to carry.
• Composite construction keeps weight down; reinforced toe and steel/aluminum internals deliver solid reliability for recreational skiing. Heavier, aggressive skiers doing big drops or high‑impact park laps will be better served by burlier options.

Compatibility and brake sizing

• Boots: Alpine (ISO 5355). GripWalk (ISO 23223) on NX 11 GW variants.
• Brakes: Common sizes 90 and 100 mm. Choose a brake width equal to your ski waist or up to ~15 mm wider.

How it compares

• Marker Squire 11: Similar DIN and target skier. Comparably light and popular; the NX heel is arguably a touch easier to step into. The Squire feels slightly more modern underfoot; pricing often favors the NX.
• Tyrolia Attack 11 GW: Feels more planted with a low stack; slightly heavier but very robust. The NX wins on step‑in ease; the Attack 11 suits aggressive progressors seeking a sturdier chassis.
• Look Pivot 12: Higher elasticity and freeride pedigree, but heavier and pricier; overkill for many NX 11 buyers.

Potential drawbacks

• Max DIN 11 caps suitability for heavier or very aggressive skiers—consider NX 12/Attack 12/Squire 12 if you need headroom.
• More composite parts than heavier bindings; long‑term durability is good for recreational use but not “indestructible.”
• Non‑GW versions are not GripWalk compatible—double‑check the exact model.

Specs explained

• Type of binding: Alpine. Made for downhill resort skiing; not for touring.
• DIN value: 3.5–11. The retention/release scale a shop sets to your profile; 11 max suits lighter to medium‑weight skiers.
• Elastic travel: Toe 45 mm lateral, Heel 12 mm vertical. More travel = better shock absorption and fewer pre‑releases.
• Brake width: 90, 100 mm. Pick equal to, or up to ~15 mm wider than, your ski waist.
• Weight: ~915 g each (1,830 g pair). Light, easy to handle, without feeling flimsy for its class.
• Compatibility: ISO 5355 Alpine; ISO 23223 GripWalk (GW versions). Ensures proper AFD interface and release.
• Materials: Composite body with steel/aluminum components. Balances weight and durability for resort use.

Key takeaways

• Easy step‑in, predictable release: confidence for newer and progressing skiers.
• Light and affordable without feeling cheap in its intended use.
• Get the GW version if you have GripWalk boots; mind the 11 DIN ceiling.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is the Look NX 11 compatible with GripWalk boots?
A: Yes—if you buy the NX 11 GW version. Standard NX 11 models are for Alpine ISO 5355 soles only.

Q: What brake width should I choose?
A: Match your ski waist or go up to around 15 mm wider. For a 92 mm waist, a 100 mm brake is appropriate; for 88–90 mm, a 90 mm brake works.

Q: Who should choose the NX 11 vs NX 12?
A: If your DIN setting is below ~9 and you’re a lighter or intermediate skier, the NX 11 is ideal. If you’re heavier, more aggressive, or want room to grow past DIN 10–11, consider the NX 12.

Q: Can I use the NX 11 for touring?
A: No. It’s an alpine binding for resort skiing and is not designed for tech soles or uphill skinning.