Plum Oazo 4 – Review

The Plum Oazo 4 is an ultra-light tech/pin touring binding built for efficiency on the ascent and predictable, minimalist performance on the descent. With a fixed vertical (forward) release of 4 and an adjustable lateral release from 4–10, it targets lighter skiers and weight-focused tourers who value simplicity and reliability.

Pros and cons

Pros: Very low weight (~200 g per binding) and excellent climbing efficiency.
Pros: 25 mm heel adjustment and three heel risers (flat/41/54 mm) for versatile touring.
Pros: CNC’d 7075 aluminum with steel where it matters; made in France.
Cons: Fixed vertical release at 4; may be too low for heavier/aggressive skiers.
Cons: Limited elastic travel typical of pin bindings.
Cons: Brakes not included; adding them increases weight and cost.

Uphill and transitions

At roughly 400–410 g per pair without brakes, the Oazo 4 shines on long climbs and fast training laps. Three climbing positions (flat/41/54 mm) cover everything from rolling approaches to steep skin tracks and are easy to operate. Plum’s “Too Facile” toe speeds up step-in for a pin binding, shortening transitions—great when you rack up vertical or yo-yo laps.

Downhill performance and release

The U-spring heel delivers a fixed 4 vertical release on this model, while lateral release is adjustable from 4–10. That combination works well for lighter skiers or those who prefer lower settings. If you’re heavier or ski aggressively, a stronger spring (Oazo 6/8) or a binding with adjustable vertical release (e.g., Marker Alpinist, ATK Crest) is a better match. As with most tech bindings, elastic travel is limited; pairing with a damp ski and well-tuned boots helps maintain composure in choppy snow.

Usability and features

25 mm heel adjustment (about three mondo sizes) makes sharing skis or boot quiver changes easier.
Removable crampon slot fits common ski crampons.
Optional brakes in 80/90/100/110 mm; with brakes, pair weight is around 540–550 g.

Build and durability

The binding is CNC-machined from 7075 aerospace aluminum with hardened steel pins/forks and POM components at the heel. Tolerances are tight, and long-term reliability is a Plum hallmark. As with any pin binding, periodic inspection of pins, bushings, and springs is recommended.

Comparisons

Salomon MTN / Atomic Backland Tour class: Slightly heavier but typically offers more elastic latitude and brake options. Oazo 4 wins on weight and simplicity, trades off vertical adjustability.
Marker Alpinist 8/10: More adjustability and often longer elastic travel; a bit heavier. Oazo 4 is lighter and more minimalist.
ATK Crest 8: Excellent downhill poise and longer elastic travel with integrated brakes; heavier and pricier. Oazo 4 is the purist’s climber.

Specs and what they mean

Type of binding: Tech / Pin (frameless). Prioritizes low weight and efficient touring; direct ski feel with less damping.
DIN / release value: Vertical 4 (fixed); Lateral 4–10. Determines when the binding releases; too low risks pre-release, too high reduces safety.
Elastic travel: Not specified (limited, typical of pin systems). Less shock absorption than alpine-like tour bindings.
Brake width: Optional 80/90/100/110 mm. Match brake width to ski waist; brakes add safety and some weight.
Weight: ~400–410 g/pair (no brakes); ~540–550 g/pair (with brakes). Lower weight improves climbing efficiency and reduces fatigue.
Compatibility: Tech-insert boots (ISO 9523 with tech fittings). Not for alpine soles without tech inserts.
Materials: 7075 aluminum, steel, POM. Balances strength, precision, and low mass.

Who it’s for (and not for)

Best for: Lighter tourers, fitness laps, big vert days, speed-focused ascents, and technical terrain where grams matter.
Not ideal for: Heavier riders, aggressive skiers in resort chop, or anyone needing adjustable vertical release.

Key takeaways

Ultra-light and efficient: A top pick for long tours and training.
Fixed vertical release at 4: Excellent for lighter skiers; limiting for heavy/aggressive skiers.
Minimalist feature set, all essentials: 25 mm adjustment, 3 risers, optional brakes.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I add brakes to the Plum Oazo 4?
A: Yes. Plum offers 80/90/100/110 mm stoppers. Expect added weight (pair around 540–550 g) and extra cost.

Q: Who is a fixed vertical release of 4 best for?
A: Lighter skiers, smooth technical skiers, or anyone preferring lower settings. Heavier/aggressive skiers should consider an Oazo with a stronger spring (6/8) or a binding with adjustable vertical release.

Q: Which boots are compatible?
A: Touring boots with tech inserts (commonly ISO 9523 with tech fittings). Alpine soles without inserts are not compatible.

Q: How much length adjustment is there?
A: About 25 mm on the heel track—roughly three mondo sizes—handy for multiple users or liner swaps.