Look NX 12 – Review

Overview

The Look NX 12 GW is a lightweight, user‑friendly alpine binding aimed at all‑mountain resort skiers. It pairs a versatile 3.5–12 DIN range with easy step‑in/step‑out and notably high toe elasticity, which keeps things calm over chatter and reduces unwanted prerelease. It isn’t a big‑mountain freeride hammer or a touring option, but it’s a dependable daily driver for intermediates to advanced skiers.

Who is it for?

Intermediates to advanced all‑mountain riders who want a GripWalk‑compatible alpine binding with easy entry.
Skiers who prioritize predictable retention and comfort without needing a DIN above 12.
Not ideal for heavy, ultra‑aggressive freeriders or sustained park abuse; not for touring.

Key specs explained

Type of binding: Alpine (GripWalk‑compatible)
- Built for resort performance and power transfer. No tech/pin or touring function.
DIN / release value: 3.5–12
- Covers a wide range of skiers from lighter riders to strong all‑mountain skiers. If you regularly need DIN 13–14+, look elsewhere.
Elastic travel: Toe 45 mm lateral; Heel 12 mm vertical
- More elastic travel lets the binding absorb vibrations and impacts, helping prevent prerelease while still allowing proper safety release.
Brake width: 80/90/100 mm
- Match brake to ski waist or go ~5–15 mm wider for safe clearance without excessive overhang.
Weight: ≈1015 g per binding
- Light for everyday resort use; helps keep swing weight reasonable.
Compatibility: ISO 5355 (Alpine), ISO 23223 (GripWalk)
- Works with most modern adult alpine boots; not for touring soles (ISO 9523) or pin systems.
Materials: Composite with steel reinforcements
- Saves weight while reinforcing high‑stress components for durability.

On‑snow performance

The Full Action toe’s 45 mm of lateral elasticity provides a smooth, composed feel on firm snow and through choppy sections. The NX heel is known for easy step‑in/step‑out and consistent release. Power transfer is plenty for groomers and light off‑piste. In aggressive freeride scenarios, the heel’s elastic reserve and overall stoutness trail full‑metal options; it’s not a Pivot in terms of suspension.

Comparisons

Marker Squire 11/12: Often lighter, but with less elastic margin at the toe. NX 12 tends to be calmer on hard snow and easier to step into in tricky conditions.
Tyrolia Attack 11/12 GW: Beefier platform and popular with heavier skiers; similar weight. NX 12 is slightly more user‑friendly and often more affordable.
Look Pivot 12 GW: Class‑leading heel elasticity and retention for aggressive skiing, but heavier and pricier. NX 12 is simpler to adjust (especially on the Konect plate) and better for daily resort use.

Mounting and setup

Available flat‑mount or on the Konect plate with tool‑free BSL adjustment (~260–375 mm). Always have a certified shop handle mounting, forward pressure, and DIN settings.

Durability

The lightweight composite chassis holds up well for resort use. Avoid repeated big drops and rail abuse. Periodically check heel track play and screw torque through the season.

Key takeaways

Light, calm, and easy to use: great manners on firm snow and hassle‑free entry.
Broad compatibility: works with GripWalk and Alpine soles.
Not a freeride bruiser: heel elasticity and build aren’t aimed at extreme abuse.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What brake width should I choose for the Look NX 12?
A: Match brake width to your ski waist or go up to ~15 mm wider. This prevents sidewall rubbing while ensuring the brake deploys correctly.

Q: Is the Look NX 12 compatible with GripWalk boots?
A: Yes. It’s Dual Standard and works with ISO 5355 (Alpine) and ISO 23223 (GripWalk) soles. It is not compatible with ISO 9523 touring soles or tech inserts.

Q: Who should consider a different binding?
A: Heavy, aggressive freeriders and dedicated park skiers may prefer burlier options (Look Pivot 14, Tyrolia Attack 14). For touring, choose a tech or hybrid binding.

Verdict

A well‑balanced, affordable resort binding: light, comfortable, GripWalk‑ready, and dependable. The Look NX 12 suits intermediates to advanced skiers who spend most of their time on groomers with occasional forays off‑piste, as long as they don’t need DIN above 12.