Look SPX 13 Review

The Look SPX 13 is a stout alpine/all‑mountain binding built around high elastic travel and predictable release. It targets confident intermediates through aggressive advanced skiers who value retention, shock absorption, and precise power transmission.

Who is it for?

• Intermediate → advanced skiers who ski hard on piste and all‑mountain.
• Riders who want strong retention and big elastic travel to reduce unwanted pre‑release.
• Skiers using Alpine (ISO 5355 A) or GripWalk (ISO 23223 A) soles.

On‑snow performance

With 27 mm of heel elastic travel and 45 mm of lateral toe elasticity, the SPX 13 soaks up chatter and compressions, keeping you locked in when terrain gets rough or turns load up. Rolling Control and the oversize heel pivot help deliver firm edge hold and efficient power transfer. In practice, retention feels above average; the binding holds reliably through bumps and landings, yet its 180° multi‑directional toe release opens when it should in a real crash.

Step‑in is positive and secure, though the heel can feel a touch stiffer than some competitors. The extra weight over very light bindings contributes to a damp, planted ride—reassuring at speed and in variable snow.

Specs explained

• Type of binding: Alpine / All‑mountain (GripWalk compatible)
  • Focused on resort and all‑mountain use; not for touring. GripWalk compatibility ensures proper interface with modern soles.
• DIN / release value: 4–13
  • Covers a wide range. Offers more headroom for aggressive skiing than 11/12‑DIN models.
• Elastic travel: Heel 27 mm; Toe 45 mm
  • More elastic travel = better shock absorption, fewer unwanted releases in chatter and compressions.
• Brake width: <80, 80–90, 90, and 100 mm (by SKU)
  • Choose a brake equal to or up to ~15 mm wider than your ski waist for a clean fit.
• Weight: 1110 g per binding (~2220 g per pair)
  • Slightly heavier than some peers; adds durability and a damp feel.
• Compatibility: ISO 5355 A (Alpine), ISO 23223 A (GripWalk)
  • Works with the most common resort boot soles; not for tech/touring soles.
• Materials: Steel, aluminum, reinforced composite/plastic
  • Durable core components with reinforced housing for longevity.

Comparisons

• Marker Griffon 13 ID: Lighter and often easier step‑in, but with less elastic travel (especially at the heel). SPX 13 generally offers stronger retention in rough conditions.
• Tyrolia Attack 14 GW: Low stack and very user‑friendly. SPX 13 feels more damp and torsionally planted, with greater elastic margin.
• Look Pivot 14 GW: Even more elasticity and the iconic turntable heel—top for freestyle and chargers. Heavier and pricier; SPX 13 is simpler to mount and easier on the budget.

Mounting & setup tips

• Pick brake width equal to or up to ~15 mm wider than ski waist.
• Have a shop set forward pressure and DIN; the SPX benefits greatly from precise forward pressure.
• Verify AFD/toe height interface and boot sole type (Alpine or GripWalk) for consistent release.

Durability

Look touts reinforced components, a widened Full Action toe, and an oversize heel pivot for coupling strength. On snow, the chassis feels solid with minimal play after many days.

Potential drawbacks

• Heavier than Griffon/Attack alternatives.
• Heel step‑in can feel stiff, especially in very cold temps.
• Not touring‑capable; no tech inserts.

Key takeaways

• Retention and elasticity: Excellent for aggressive all‑mountain skiing.
• Compatibility: Works with Alpine and GripWalk soles.
• Weight: On the heavier side, but confidence‑inspiring and damp.
• Value: Big‑mountain feel without Pivot pricing or complexity.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is DIN 4–13 enough for me?
A: For most intermediates to advanced skiers, yes. Heavier, highly aggressive, or competitive skiers who need DINs above 13 should consider a 14/16‑DIN model.

Q: What brake width should I choose?
A: Match your ski waist or go up to ~15 mm wider. Too wide can catch; too narrow won’t clear the ski.

Q: Does the SPX 13 work with GripWalk boots?
A: Yes. It’s compatible with ISO 23223 (GripWalk) and ISO 5355 (alpine) soles.

Verdict

The Look SPX 13 blends standout elastic travel with planted power transmission and trustworthy release. For all‑mountain skiers prioritizing retention, stability, and durability over gram‑counting, it’s a top pick.