Salomon Strive 14 – Review

Overview

The Salomon Strive 14 is a modern all‑mountain/alpine resort binding built around an ultra low‑profile LDN toe. That low stand height puts you closer to the ski for sharp edge feel, quick response, and precise power transfer—equally at home railing groomers or charging chopped‑up snow. With a 5–14 DIN range, 47 mm of elastic travel, broad brake options, and TÜV‑certified safety, it targets advanced to expert skiers who want confidence and compatibility without excess weight.

Specs and what they mean

• Type of binding: Alpine (all‑mountain)
  What it means: Designed for resort skiing on‑piste and freeride. Not a pin touring binding.
• DIN / release value: 5–14
  What it means: Wide adjustment for heavier, faster, or more aggressive skiers. Higher DIN helps prevent unwanted release when properly set.
• Elastic travel: 47 mm
  What it means: Extra suspension that absorbs chatter and impacts, reducing pre‑release and keeping release more consistent.
• Brake widths: 90, 100, 115, 130 mm
  What it means: Match brake to ski waist or ~+5–15 mm to ensure proper clearance and stopping power.
• Weight: ~980–995 g per binding
  What it means: Competitive in class—solid and confidence‑inspiring without feeling bulky.
• Compatibility: ISO 5355 (Alpine), ISO 23223 (GripWalk); MN variant also supports ISO 9523
  What it means: Works with the most common boot soles. MN adds touring‑sole support (not for non‑ISO shortened lugs).
• Materials: Glass‑fiber reinforced polyamide, steel
  What it means: A stiff, durable chassis with metal in critical release components; TÜV tested.

On‑snow performance

• Snow feel and edge hold: The low stand height and a wide 72 mm AFD deliver excellent feedback and bite on hardpack, with a very connected “snow‑close” feel.
• Power transfer: The XL toe wings and wide pedal stabilize wider skis and drive them with authority.
• Retention and release: Predictable release with ample elasticity to handle rough snow and landings without premature ejections.
• Step‑in: Automatic toe/wings adaptation makes stepping in smooth with both Alpine and GripWalk soles.

Durability & materials

The glass‑filled polyamide chassis balances low weight and torsional stiffness, while steel is used where it matters for reliable release. In use, the Strive 14 feels tight and rattle‑free. The locking brake design keeps things tidy when carrying or transporting skis.

Setup & compatibility

• Choose GW vs MN: The GW version fits Alpine (ISO 5355) and GripWalk (ISO 23223). The MN adds ISO 9523 touring‑sole support.
• Brake sizing: Match brake to ski waist or go ~+5–15 mm.
• Mounting & DIN: Always have a qualified shop mount the binding, set forward pressure, toe height/AFD, and DIN.

Comparisons

• Marker Griffon 13 ID: Similar audience; the Strive 14 sits lower for snappier snow feel and offers a touch more upper‑end DIN.
• Tyrolia Attack 14 GW: Both feel low and direct; the Strive’s LDN toe and wide AFD emphasize that “low‑profile” precision.
• Look Pivot 14 GW: The Pivot is renowned for exceptional elasticity and release quality, but it’s heavier and a different feel. The Strive 14 is easier to step into and simpler to mount.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Ultra low profile with lively snow feel.
• Pros: Wide platform and strong power transfer.
• Pros: Broad boot compatibility (GW, plus ISO 9523 on MN).
• Pros: Competitive weight; TÜV‑certified safety.
• Cons: Not a pin touring binding (resort‑focused).
• Cons: Not the most “damped” ride for those seeking a plush feel.

Key takeaways

• Low and powerful: Maximum feedback without feeling nervous.
• Versatile: From hardpack carving to mixed snow and freeride lines.
• Pick the right variant: GW for Alpine/GW soles; MN if you need ISO 9523.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What brake width should I choose?
A: Match brake to your ski waist or go about 5–15 mm wider. For a 102 mm waist ski, a 115 mm brake is a safe choice. This ensures clearance and effective stopping.

Q: What’s the difference between Strive 14 GW and Strive 14 MN?
A: The GW version fits Alpine (ISO 5355) and GripWalk (ISO 23223) soles. The MN version supports those plus ISO 9523 touring soles. Both are alpine resort bindings—not pin tech bindings.

Q: Who is the 5–14 DIN range for?
A: Advanced to expert skiers, bigger riders, or those skiing faster and harder. Always have a shop set your DIN based on your weight, height, boot sole length, and style.

Q: Can I tour with the Strive 14?
A: Not as a pin setup. While the MN version accepts some ISO 9523 touring soles, the Strive 14 is primarily a resort/all‑mountain binding.

Verdict

The Salomon Strive 14 blends an ultra low profile with confident power delivery and trustworthy release. For advanced to expert resort skiers who want crisp snow feel and modern compatibility in a relatively light, robust package, it’s a standout choice.