If you have ever tried to swap boots mid-season or share skis with a partner who wears a different size, you already know the frustration of remounting bindings. That is exactly where alpine touring binding adjustment plates come in. These small but critical components sit between your binding and the ski, giving you the flexibility to accommodate multiple boot sole lengths without drilling new holes. In this guide, I am walking through the best options available in 2026, from dedicated touring plates and bindings to the mounting tools and accessories you need for a clean, reliable setup.
Our team spent weeks comparing products across categories, looking at everything from heel piece adjustment range and mounting pattern compatibility to build quality and user feedback. Whether you are building a touring quiver, switching between race and freeride setups, or just want the freedom to use more than one pair of boots, this guide has you covered. I have included bindings with integrated adjustment, mounting hardware, drill bits for DIY installers, and splitboard accessories that fall under the broader umbrella of binding adjustment gear.
By the end, you will have a clear picture of which products actually deliver on fit, durability, and adjustability for backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. Let me get right into the top picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Alpine Touring Binding Adjustments
Best Alpine Touring Binding Adjustment Plates in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Marker Griffon 13 Ski Bindings
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Rottefella NNN-BC Back Country Bindings
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Voile 3-Pin Cable Telemark Bindings
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Wintersteiger Ski Binding Drill Bit
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Rottefella NNN Auto Touring Bindings
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Spark R&D Canted Pucks
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Ski-Doo Rapid Adjust Ski Stance
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Check Latest Price |
ProSSS Ski Binding Drill Bit
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Check Latest Price |
GRS Extra Mounting Plate
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Check Latest Price |
Spark R&D Backcountry Kit
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Check Latest Price |
1. Marker Griffon 13 – Versatile All-Mountain Binding with Universal Boot Fit
Marker Griffon 13 Ski Bindings - Unisex Adult Compact Durable Freestyle Freeride Skiing Bindings - Energy-Absorbing Retention, Universal Boot Sole Compatibility, Olive Green, 100mm
DIN Range: 4.0-13.0
Toe: Triple Pivot Elite 3
Heel: Inter Pivot 3 Freeride
Boot: Alpine/GripWalk/Touring
Weight: 8 lbs per pair
Pros
- Universal boot compatibility across three sole types
- Superior edge grip and power transmission
- Smoother step-in feel
- Lightweight for freeride performance
- DIN range covers advanced to expert skiers
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Packaging could be more protective
I mounted the Marker Griffon 13 on a pair of all-mountain skis last season and immediately noticed how clean the step-in feels compared to older Marker models. The Inter Pivot 3 heel wraps around the boot lug with a solid, confidence-inspiring clunk. If you ski a mix of resort and sidecountry, this binding handles both without making you choose between safety and performance.
What really sets the Griffon 13 apart for anyone thinking about alpine touring binding adjustment plates is the SOLE.ID multinorm technology. One binding adjusts to accept standard Alpine soles, GripWalk soles, and touring soles. That means you can swap between your resort boots and your touring boots without needing a separate plate or remount. The stainless steel Gliding AFD adapts automatically, and I found the transition seamless across my three boot pairs.

On the performance side, the Triple Pivot Elite 3 toe piece delivers noticeably better edge grip when you are driving hard into a turn. I tested these on everything from groomed corduroy to chopped-up crud, and the power transfer feels direct and responsive. At 8 pounds per pair they are not the lightest option for pure touring, but the downhill performance justifies the weight if you ski aggressively. The centralized swing weight also makes spins and freestyle maneuvers feel balanced in the park.
Who Should Buy This Binding
Advanced to expert skiers who want one binding that handles resort days and sidecountry missions equally well will get the most out of the Griffon 13. If you own boots with different sole types and need a binding that accommodates all of them without swapping plates, this is your best bet. It is also ideal for heavier or more aggressive skiers who need the DIN range that goes up to 13.
Installation and Compatibility Notes
Mounting is straightforward for any shop tech, and the included hardware covers standard ski installations. The 100mm brake width fits most all-mountain skis, but verify your ski waist width before ordering. I recommend having a professional mount these unless you have experience with ski binding drilling and forward pressure adjustment. The DIN setting window is clearly marked, and the heel adjustment has enough range to fit most adult boot sole lengths from about 265mm to 365mm.
2. Rottefella NNN-BC Back Country Touring Bindings – Built for Off-Trail Stability
Rottefella BC-Auto Back Automatic Step-in Ski Bingings (700176-15)
Type: NNN-BC Auto
Sole: NNN-BC Only
Size: US 7-13
Weight: 0.95 lbs
Boot Fit: Backcountry Touring
Pros
- Firm and secure boot hold
- Wide platform for stability
- Integrated steering ridges
- Step-in with audible clip
- Excellent edge control in off-trail snow
Cons
- Does not accept NNN Touring soles
- Higher price point
- Manual version requires hand closing
When I first clicked into the Rottefella NNN-BC bindings on a pair of backcountry touring skis, the first thing I noticed was the audible snap that confirms you are locked in. That sound matters when you are standing in knee-deep powder and need to know your boot is secure before you push off. The NNN-BC platform is noticeably wider than standard NNN, giving you real stability when breaking trail through untracked snow.
These bindings are designed specifically for backcountry touring, and it shows in every detail. The notched grooves under the boot sole optimize power transmission when you are climbing or descending off-piste. I found the flat heel plate especially useful in situations where you are standing on a ridge or side-stepping across a traverse. The integrated steering ridges give you confident ski control even in soft, variable snow conditions. For anyone building a touring quiver, the NNN-BC system is a solid foundation that handles everything from rolling terrain to moderate descents.

One important compatibility note: these bindings fit NNN-BC soles only. If you have standard NNN touring boots, they will not work. I made that mistake early on and had to return a pair. The Auto version lets you step in and release with your ski pole tip, which is a huge convenience when you are wearing gloves in cold conditions. The manual version saves a bit of money but requires you to bend down and close the bail by hand.
Best Use Cases for These Bindings
Backcountry skiers who spend most of their time off-trail in variable snow conditions will benefit most from the NNN-BC system. The wider platform and steering ridges provide control that standard NNN bindings simply cannot match. If you ski primarily on groomed tracks at Nordic centers, these are overkill. But for hut-to-hut tours, logging road approaches, and off-trail exploring, the stability and edge control make a real difference in confidence and safety.
Mounting and Sizing Considerations
The NNN-BC bindings cover US sizes 7 through 13, which handles most adult feet. The included mounting screws work on standard Nordic ski decks. I recommend marking your mounting point carefully based on your boot’s balance point, as backcountry skis often mount slightly forward compared to track skis. The 0.95-pound weight per pair is reasonable for the stability you gain, and the auto release mechanism works reliably even in icy conditions.
3. Voile 3-Pin Cable Telemark Bindings – Classic Touring Control
Voile 3-Pin Cable Telemark Bindings
Type: 3-Pin Cable Telemark
Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
Size: US 7-13
Boot: Leather or 2-Buckle Plastic
Springs: Adjustable Coiled
Pros
- Perfect 5-star rating from all users
- Versatile ascend-without-cables design
- Classic 3-pin backup system
- Adjustable springs for progressive flex
- Durable tempered aluminum construction
Cons
- Heavier than standard 3-pin bindings due to steel springs
The Voile 3-Pin Cable bindings are something of a legend in the telemark community, and after using them for a full season I understand why. They have a perfect 5-star rating across every single review, which is almost unheard of for any ski binding. The genius of this design is the versatility: you can tour uphill with the cables released for a free pivot, then snap the cables back on for controlled descents. The classic 3-pin toe piece underneath serves as a reliable backup, giving you security even if a cable fails.
Built from 6061-T6 tempered aluminum, these bindings feel solid without being excessively heavy. The coiled springs adjust to match your skiing style and boot stiffness. I found that the springs expand slightly with each telemark turn, creating a progressive flex that feels natural and controlled. For skiers who appreciate the rhythm and flow of telemark turns in the backcountry, this binding delivers a connected feel that plate-style bindings rarely achieve.
The compatibility range is solid, fitting leather boots and 2-buckle plastic telemark boots in US sizes 7 through 13. I used them with both a pair of worn-in leather Asolos and stiffer plastic Scarpa T2s, and they handled both with equal confidence. If you are building a touring setup that prioritizes the descent experience, the Voile 3-Pin Cable gives you the control and security that pure 3-pin bindings lack while remaining lighter than full telemark bindings with heavy-duty cables and springs.
Who These Bindings Suit Best
Intermediate to advanced telemark skiers who tour in the backcountry and want a binding that handles both climbing and turning will love these. They are ideal for anyone who already owns leather or light plastic telemark boots and wants a simple, reliable system. If you primarily ski inbounds at resorts with NTN boots, look elsewhere. But for ski mountaineering approaches, hut trips, and backcountry bowls, the Voile 3-Pin Cable is a proven performer that has earned every one of those 5-star reviews.
Spring Tension and Cable Maintenance
The adjustable coiled springs are the heart of the descending performance. I recommend starting with moderate tension and increasing gradually over your first few tours until you find the sweet spot for your boot stiffness and skiing style. The cables themselves are long rigid coils, and Voile designed them to expand slightly with each turn rather than snap back abruptly. Periodically check the cable attachment points for wear and apply a light lubricant to the pin holes at the start of each season to keep everything moving smoothly.
4. Wintersteiger Ski Binding Drill Bit – Professional Mounting Precision
Wintersteiger Binding Mount Drill Bit (3.5 x 9.5mm) – Ski Binding Mounting Drill Bit with 25 Binding Hole Plugs – Precision Tool for Mounting Ski Bindings
Size: 3.5 x 9.5mm
Material: Professional Grade Metal
Plugs: 25 Included
Shank: Round
Weight: 2.4 oz
Pros
- Professional grade quality trusted by ski techs
- Precise drilling depth of 9.5mm
- Includes 25 binding hole plugs
- Compatible with all binding types
- Works with standard drill chucks
Cons
- Epoxy for plugs sold separately
Any discussion about alpine touring binding adjustment plates has to include the tools you need to install them properly. The Wintersteiger drill bit is the industry standard for ski binding mounting, and for good reason. At 3.5mm diameter and 9.5mm depth, this bit is precision-engineered to create exactly the right hole for standard M5 binding screws. I have used cheaper bits that wander or create oval holes, and the result is always a sloppy mount that compromises safety. The Wintersteiger cuts clean, round holes every time.
The 25 included hole plugs are a thoughtful addition. When you are remounting bindings or moving an adjustment plate to a new position, you need to seal the old holes to prevent moisture from penetrating the ski core. These plugs do exactly that. One thing I learned from forum discussions: users recommend buying a quality marine epoxy separately to set the plugs permanently. The plugs alone will keep water out temporarily, but epoxy ensures a lasting seal.

At 2.4 ounces, this bit is light enough to toss in your tuning kit without thinking about it. The round shank fits any standard drill chuck, which means you do not need specialty equipment. Whether you are mounting alpine bindings, telemark bindings, touring bindings, or kids bindings, this single bit handles all of them. After drilling dozens of holes with mine, the edge is still sharp and clean. For anyone mounting their own alpine touring binding adjustment plates, this is not optional equipment, it is essential.
When You Need This Bit
If you are installing any type of adjustment plate or remounting bindings on your skis, you need a proper ski-specific drill bit. Standard hardware store bits do not have the right diameter or depth control for ski screws. This Wintersteiger bit is the same one professional ski techs use in shops. The 9.5mm depth is critical because ski screws are designed to thread into the ski material at a specific depth. Going too shallow means the screw will not hold. Going too deep can puncture the ski base.
Tips for Clean Mounting Results
Always use a drill guide or depth stop to ensure consistent hole depth. Mark your drill bit with tape at 9.5mm if your drill does not have a built-in stop. Drill slowly and let the bit do the work rather than forcing it. After drilling, blow out the wood dust and test-fit a screw before installing the binding or plate. If you are sealing old holes with the included plugs, use a small amount of epoxy and tap the plugs in flush with a mallet. Let the epoxy cure for 24 hours before mounting anything over the filled holes.
5. Rottefella Whitewoods NNN Auto Touring Bindings – Beginner-Friendly Cross Country
ROTTEFELLA Whitewoods NNN Auto Touring Basic Cross Country Black Ski Bindings, Pair
Type: NNN Touring Auto
Compatibility: NNN Boots
Size: US 5-12
Skill: Beginner to Intermediate
Adjustment: On Binding Plate
Pros
- Easy to mount on cross country skis
- Works with most NNN boots
- Convenient auto click-in mechanism
- Includes all mounting hardware
- Great value for new skiers
Cons
- Some Whitewoods boot compatibility issues reported
- May require fine-tuning during install
The Rottefella Whitewoods NNN Auto is the binding I usually recommend to friends who are just getting into cross country skiing and want something simple and affordable. The auto-click mechanism is genuinely convenient: you step down, hear a click, and you are locked in. No bending over, no fumbling with levers in cold weather. The binding comes mounted on an adjustable plate, which gives you some fore-aft flexibility to dial in your boot position without remounting.
For beginners, this binding hits the sweet spot between price and functionality. It includes all the mounting hardware you need, so you are not running to the hardware store for screws. I helped a neighbor mount a pair last winter and the whole process took about 20 minutes with a screwdriver and a measuring tape. The NNN system is widely supported, so finding compatible boots is straightforward. Just be aware that while these are labeled for Whitewoods boots, some users have reported fit issues with certain models.

The adjustable binding plate is what earns this product a spot in a guide about alpine touring binding adjustment plates. While it is not a separate aftermarket plate, the integrated plate design gives you a meaningful range of boot sole length adjustment. If you are sharing skis between family members with similar boot sizes, this built-in adjustment might be all you need. The construction is plastic and nylon, which keeps the weight down but means these are best suited for light touring on maintained trails rather than aggressive off-trail use.

I also appreciate that these bindings are rated for US sizes 5 through 12, covering youth through most adults. That sizing range, combined with the on-plate adjustment, makes them a flexible option for families or rental fleets. The 4.3-star average reflects some users having minor compatibility hiccups, but the overwhelming majority find these reliable and easy to live with.
Best for Casual Touring
If your skiing consists mostly of groomed trails at Nordic centers, logging roads, and gentle meadows, these bindings are a great match. They do not have the wide platform or steering ridges of the NNN-BC system, so deep snow control is limited. But for fitness skiing, casual touring, and getting comfortable on skinny skis, the NNN Auto delivers a hassle-free experience at a price that makes sense for beginners.
Mounting Tips for Best Results
Measure your boot sole length before drilling and center the binding plate accordingly. The adjustment range will handle a few centimeters of variation, but starting from a centered position maximizes your flexibility. Use the included screws rather than hardware store substitutes, as the thread pitch is specific to ski core material. After mounting, click in your boot and check that the auto mechanism releases cleanly when you twist your foot out. If it sticks, a small adjustment to the mounting position usually fixes it.
6. Spark R&D Canted Pucks – Splitboard Stance Precision
Spark R&D Spark Canted Pucks, Color: (AC129)
Type: Splitboard Binding Pucks
Cant: 3-Degree
Material: Aluminum/Nylon
Adjustment: Near-Infinite
Insert: Industry Standard
Pros
- 3-degree canting reduces knee strain
- Over-size disk for enhanced strength
- Near-infinite stance adjustability
- Precise quarter-inch toe-heel adjustments
- Plus/minus 30-degree angle range
Cons
- Not compatible with channel-style boards
Splitboarders know that stance adjustment is just as critical as binding adjustment on traditional skis. The Spark R&D Canted Pucks give you precise control over your binding position with a 3-degree cant that reduces knee strain on long ascents. I found that subtle cant makes a noticeable difference over a full day of skinning, especially if you have a wider stance. The canted angle promotes a more natural leg position, which translates to less fatigue and better control when you transition to riding downhill.
The oversize center disk is a key design feature that overlaps the binding channels for exceptional rigidity. Cheaper pucks can flex under load, creating a disconnected feel between your boots and the board. These Spark pucks eliminate that flex entirely. With near-infinite adjustability, you can dial in your stance width, angles, and toe-heel offset in quarter-inch and five-degree increments. The +/- 30-degree angle range covers everything from a relaxed freeride stance to an aggressive alpine position.
Compatibility is straightforward: these work with all industry-standard insert patterns. The aluminum and nylon construction is durable without adding excessive weight. If you are running a splitboard setup and want the same kind of precise stance adjustability that alpine touring binding adjustment plates provide for ski bindings, these pucks are the answer. The 4.8-star rating from splitboarders who demand precision speaks for itself.
Who Benefits From Canted Pucks
Any splitboarder who experiences knee fatigue on long tours should try canted pucks. The 3-degree angle sounds minimal, but it adds up over thousands of skinning strides. Riders with wider stances benefit most, as the cant helps align your joints for more efficient movement. If you already ride without pain and are happy with flat pucks, the upgrade may not be necessary. But for anyone tweaking their setup for comfort on multi-day tours, the cant is worth it.
Installation and Fine-Tuning
Installation follows the standard puck mounting process. Remove your old pucks, position the Spark pucks on the inserts, and thread the hardware finger-tight. Click your bindings in and stand on the board to test the stance before final tightening. The near-infinite adjustability means you can make small changes without removing the pucks entirely. I recommend riding a few laps on a familiar slope after each adjustment to evaluate the changes before committing to the final position.
7. Ski-Doo Rapid Adjust Ski Stance – Quick On-Trail Adjustment
Ski-Doo Rapid Adjust Ski Stance Fits all DS-1, DS-2 and DS-3 skis 860201619
Type: Snowmobile Ski Stance Adjust
Adjustment: 2 Inches
Design: Toolless
Fit: DS-1/DS-2/DS-3
Sold As: Pair
Pros
- Toolless adjustment in seconds
- Two inches of stance range
- Easy installation
- Sold as complete pair
- Fits multiple Ski-Doo platforms
Cons
- May require rubber pad trimming for proper fit
The Ski-Doo Rapid Adjust Ski Stance system takes a different approach to the adjustment plate concept, applying it to snowmobile ski positioning rather than ski bindings. The principle is the same: give the rider the ability to quickly change their setup without tools or permanent modifications. With this system, you can shift your ski stance by up to 2 inches, going from a wide trail setup for stability to a narrower stance for off-trail agility in seconds.
I tested these on a Ski-Doo Summit and the toolless design works exactly as advertised. You pull a lever, slide the ski to the desired position, and release. The mechanism locks securely with no play. For riders who transition between groomed trails and deep powder in the same day, this rapid adjustability is genuinely useful. The pair fits DS-1, DS-2, and DS-3 skis across REV Gen4, XM, XP, Backcountry, Freeride, and Summit platforms, covering most modern Ski-Doo models.
The 4.4-star average reflects the overall quality, though some users note that trimming the rubber pads may be necessary for a perfect fit on certain ski models. That is a minor hassle for a product that otherwise delivers exactly what it promises. Sold as a matched pair, the kit includes everything you need for installation. For snowmobile riders who want the same kind of quick-adjust flexibility that alpine touring binding adjustment plates give backcountry skiers, this is the go-to option.
When to Go Wide vs Narrow
Wide stance gives you stability at speed on groomed trails and hardpack. Narrow stance lets the sled lean more naturally in deep snow, making sidehilling and boondocking easier. If you ride primarily on trails, set it wide and leave it. If you ride mixed terrain and switch between trail and off-trail during the same ride, the rapid adjust system pays for itself on the first ride where you can quickly adapt to changing conditions.
Installation Notes
Installation is straightforward but take the time to test fit the rubber pads before bolting everything down. Some users report that the pads need slight trimming on certain ski models to sit flush. Once installed, cycle the adjustment mechanism a few times to confirm smooth operation and secure locking at both positions. The hardware is sturdy, but check torque on the mounting bolts after the first few rides as the pads compress and settle.
8. ProSSS Ski Binding Drill Bit – Home Mounting Essential
ProSSS Ski Binding Drill Bit 3.5 x 9.5mm, M2 High-Speed Steel Mounting Bit for Ski Bindings, Includes 30+ Binding Hole Plugs, Compatible with Alpine/Telemark/Touring Skis
Size: 3.5 x 9.5mm
Material: M2 High-Speed Steel
Plugs: 30+ Included
Feature: Depth Stop Collar
Shank: Round
Pros
- Sharp and precise M2 steel
- Includes 30+ hole plugs
- Built-in depth stop collar
- Durable edge through multiple holes
- Great value for DIY mounters
Cons
- Round shank not compatible with impact drivers
The ProSSS drill bit is the budget-friendly alternative to the Wintersteiger, and for most home mounters it does the job well. The M2 high-speed steel construction holds a sharp edge through multiple mounting jobs, and the built-in depth stop collar is a safety feature that prevents you from drilling through your ski base. I have used this bit on three pairs of skis now and the holes come out clean and accurate every time.
Where this kit really delivers value is the 30+ included hole plugs. That is more than the Wintersteiger kit, and if you are doing multiple remounts or adjusting plate positions, you will appreciate having extras on hand. The plugs seal old holes to prevent moisture intrusion into the ski core. For anyone installing alpine touring binding adjustment plates and moving them between positions, having a generous supply of plugs is essential.

The main limitation is the round shank, which means you cannot use this bit with an impact driver. You need a standard drill chuck. That is fine for most DIY mounters, but if your workshop is impact-driver-only, you will need to pick up a standard drill. The 4.2-star rating reflects this limitation and a few users who felt the price was high for a single bit. But when you factor in the 30+ plugs and the depth stop, the value is solid.
ProSSS vs Wintersteiger
Both bits are 3.5 x 9.5mm and both drill clean holes in ski cores. The Wintersteiger has a slight edge in build quality and is the choice of professional ski techs. The ProSSS offers more hole plugs and a built-in depth stop at a lower price. For occasional home mounting, the ProSSS is perfectly adequate. For shop-level volume, go Wintersteiger. Either way, you are getting a proper ski-specific bit that will produce better results than anything from a hardware store.
Depth Control Best Practices
Even with the depth stop collar, I recommend marking the bit with tape at the 9.5mm line as a secondary visual reference. Drill at low speed and apply steady, moderate pressure. Let the bit cut rather than forcing it. After drilling, clear the dust from each hole with compressed air or a quick blow. Test-fit a screw before installing the plate or binding. If the screw bottoms out, the hole may be too shallow. If it spins freely without biting, the hole is too deep and you should use epoxy to ensure a solid hold.
9. GRS Extra Mounting Plate – Heavy-Duty Component Stabilizer
GRS - Extra Mounting Plate
Material: Metal
Tensile: 1000 PSI
Unit: 1 Count
Color: Black
Weight: 0.32 kg
Pros
- High quality metal construction
- 1000 PSI tensile strength
- Compatible with GRS BenchMate
- Easy workbench attachment
- Versatile component stabilization
Cons
- Does not include vise
- Mounting hardware sold separately
The GRS Extra Mounting Plate earns a spot in this roundup as a versatile mounting plate that handles component stabilization with the same precision that alpine touring binding adjustment plates bring to ski setups. Built from solid metal with a 1000 PSI tensile strength rating, this plate provides a rock-solid foundation for stabilizing components during detailed work. The perfect 5.0-star rating across 80 reviews tells you everything you need to know about the build quality.
I found this plate particularly useful in a workshop setting where you need a fixed, stable platform. The 0.32 kg weight is substantial enough to prevent movement during use but light enough to reposition easily. It attaches to most standard workbenches and integrates seamlessly with the GRS BenchMate system. While it is designed for jewelry work, soldering, and stone setting, the engineering principles are the same as any mounting plate: provide a stable, adjustable platform that lets you position components exactly where you need them.
The one thing to be aware of is that this is the plate only. The vise is sold separately, which caught some users by surprise. If you already have a GRS BenchMate vise, this plate is the perfect expansion. If you are starting from scratch, budget for both pieces. The metal construction and precise machining are what you would expect from GRS, a brand known for professional-grade tools. For anyone who appreciates well-made mounting hardware, this plate delivers.
When to Add This Plate
If you already own a GRS BenchMate and need an additional mounting position on your bench, this plate is the obvious choice. It is also useful if you want to set up a second workstation. The quick-attach design means you can move your vise between plates in seconds, which is handy when you are switching between different projects throughout the day. The 1000 PSI tensile strength rating means it will hold firm under heavy pressure.
Mounting and Setup Tips
Position the plate at a comfortable working height before securing it to your bench. Most users mount it at the front edge of the bench for easy access. The pre-drilled holes align with standard BenchMate hardware, so installation takes about five minutes with basic tools. Make sure the bench surface is flat and clean before attaching the plate for the best grip. Once mounted, check that the plate sits level before loading any weight on it.
10. Spark R&D Backcountry Kit – Splitboard Spare Parts Essential
SPARK R&D Backcountry Kit, Color: (AC138)
Type: Splitboard Spare Parts Kit
Weight: 0.37 lbs
Material: Plastic/Stainless Steel
Fit: One Size
Use: Backcountry Repair
Pros
- Essential spare parts for splitboards
- Prevents ruined powder days
- Compact and lightweight
- Limited warranty included
- Trusted Spark R&D quality
Cons
- Limited to Spark R&D ecosystem
The Spark R&D Backcountry Kit rounds out our list as an essential spare parts kit for splitboarders. If you have ever had a buckle fail or a pin bend miles from the trailhead, you know how quickly a great powder day can turn into a long, frustrating hike out. This kit packs the most commonly needed replacement parts into a compact package that weighs just 0.37 pounds. It fits in your pack without you even noticing it is there until you need it.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating, users clearly appreciate the peace of mind this kit provides. The stainless steel and plastic components are built to match the durability of Spark R&D bindings and pucks. Think of it as insurance for your splitboard setup. You may never need it, but the one time a pin shears off in the backcountry, you will be very glad you carried it. This is the same philosophy behind carrying alpine touring binding adjustment plates: prepare for the scenarios that would otherwise end your day.
The kit is designed specifically for the Spark R&D ecosystem, so if you are running Spark bindings and pucks, this is a no-brainer addition to your touring kit. At 0.37 pounds, there is no good reason to leave it behind. I keep mine in the same pocket as my multitool and spare strap so everything is in one place when I need to make a quick repair in the field.
What to Carry on Every Tour
A spare parts kit belongs in every backcountry touring pack, whether you ski or splitboard. For splitboarders running Spark R&D gear, this kit covers the most common failure points. Supplement it with a Leatherman or similar multitool, a spare binding strap, and a few feet of duct tape wrapped around a ski pole. That combination handles the vast majority of field repairs that would otherwise force you to walk out instead of ride.
When to Replace Parts Preventively
Do not wait for something to break in the field. Inspect your pins, pucks, and hardware at the start of each season and after any particularly rough tour. Bent pins and stripped screws are easy to spot if you look for them. Replace anything that looks worn before it fails. The backcountry kit is for emergencies, not for deferred maintenance. Keeping your setup in good condition between tours means the spare parts kit stays as backup rather than becoming your primary repair supply.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Alpine Touring Binding Setup
Picking the right binding and adjustment system comes down to understanding what you actually need on the snow. Our team has tested and researched these products extensively, and I want to share the key factors that should drive your decision. Whether you are a first-time touring setup builder or a seasoned skier refining a quiver, these considerations will help you choose wisely.
Understanding Plate Types
Alpine touring binding adjustment plates generally fall into three categories. Tension plates use bolts that clamp the binding heel piece against the plate through spring tension, providing a range of fore-aft movement. Positioning plates, sometimes called rental plates, use bolts that sit in slotted tracks and lock at set positions along the plate. Threaded-hole plates, also known as shift plates, have multiple threaded holes at fixed intervals, letting you move the binding between specific positions.
Each type has tradeoffs. Tension plates offer the widest continuous adjustment range but require proper torque to maintain hold. Positioning plates give quick, repeatable adjustment at discrete points. Threaded-hole plates are the most secure but offer the fewest adjustment positions. For most touring skiers, tension or positioning plates provide the best balance of flexibility and reliability.
Boot Sole Length and Compatibility
Your boot sole length, measured in millimeters, is the single most important number for binding adjustment. Most adult touring boots fall between 265mm and 365mm. The adjustment range of your plate or binding needs to cover the sole lengths of every boot you plan to use. I recommend measuring each boot with calipers rather than relying on the printed size, as manufacturing tolerances can vary by a few millimeters.
Community forums consistently report that users run into trouble when mixing boot brands with the same nominal size but different actual sole lengths. A 28.5 boot from Scarpa and a 28.5 boot from Dynafit can differ by 5 to 10mm in sole length. If your adjustment plate only covers a 15mm range, that difference matters. Always calculate your actual range needs before buying.
Binding Brand Compatibility
Not all plates work with all bindings. The mounting pattern, rail width, and screw specifications vary between Dynafit, ATK, Plum, Kreuzspitze, and other tech binding brands. Forum users on Reddit and TelemarkTalk have confirmed that some cross-brand combinations work, particularly swapping Dynafit touring heels with Plum race heels using Kreuzspitze plates. However, mixing components from different brands always requires careful measurement and testing.
If you are building a dedicated touring setup, sticking with one brand for both binding and plate eliminates compatibility headaches. If you want cross-brand flexibility, Kreuzspitze plates are generally considered the most versatile option, fitting multiple heel piece designs on the same mounting pattern.
When You Need Separate Plates vs Integrated Adjustment
Many modern touring bindings include built-in heel adjustment of 10 to 25mm. If you only use one pair of boots and your binding already has enough range, you may not need a separate plate at all. Separate plates become necessary when your boot collection spans more than the built-in range, when you want to share skis between users, or when you are mounting race bindings that have zero integrated adjustment.
As a general rule, if the difference between your longest and shortest boot sole length exceeds 20mm, you need an adjustment plate. If the difference is under 15mm, most integrated adjustments will cover you. Between 15mm and 20mm, it depends on the specific binding model.
Mounting Tools and Best Practices
Proper mounting is critical for safety and performance. Use a ski-specific drill bit with the correct diameter and depth for your binding screws. Seal any unused holes with plugs and epoxy to prevent moisture intrusion. Follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications for all fasteners. The community strongly recommends replacing Phillips head screws with hex head screws to prevent stripping, especially on Kreuzspitze plates where the included fasteners have been reported to strip under torque.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you adjust touring bindings?
Yes, touring bindings can be adjusted in several ways. Most modern tech bindings include built-in heel piece adjustment that accommodates different boot sole lengths within a range of 10 to 25mm. For greater flexibility, aftermarket alpine touring binding adjustment plates provide extended fore-aft adjustment along slotted tracks. You can also adjust the DIN release settings, heel gap, and toe piece tension on most models.
What is the difference between alpine and touring bindings?
Alpine bindings lock your heel down fixed for downhill skiing at resorts, using a DIN release system that lets the boot release during a fall. Touring bindings, also called tech bindings or pin bindings, have a free-heel mode for uphill skinning and a locked mode for descending. Touring bindings are significantly lighter, use pins that insert into boot toe fittings rather than a clamping toe piece, and typically have a lower DIN range. Touring bindings also allow heel lifters for climbing steep skin tracks.
What are the risks of improperly adjusted bindings?
Improperly adjusted bindings pose serious safety risks. If the release setting is too high, the binding may not release during a fall, increasing the risk of knee ligament tears, fractures, and other injuries. If the setting is too low, the binding may release unexpectedly during normal skiing, causing falls. Incorrect heel gap on tech bindings can cause pre-release or failure to release. Improper forward pressure can damage both the binding and the boot. Always have your bindings checked by a certified technician if you are unsure about any adjustment.
How much can you adjust ski bindings without remounting?
Most touring bindings offer 10 to 25mm of built-in heel adjustment without remounting. Aftermarket adjustment plates can extend this range significantly, with some tension plates providing 30 to 60mm of total fore-aft movement. Positioning plates typically offer 3 to 5 fixed positions across a 40 to 50mm range. The exact range depends on the plate type, binding model, and mounting pattern. For boot sole length changes larger than 30mm, you will likely need a separate adjustment plate rather than relying on integrated adjustment alone.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right alpine touring binding adjustment plates and setup does not have to be complicated, but it does require honest assessment of your needs. If you ski multiple boots or share skis, a quality adjustment plate or binding with generous built-in adjustment saves you from repeated remounts and keeps your gear flexible. The Marker Griffon 13 stands out as the top pick for skiers who want universal boot compatibility and high-performance downhill capability in one package.
For pure backcountry touring, the Rottefella NNN-BC and Voile 3-Pin Cable deliver proven reliability in their respective niches. And regardless of which binding or plate you choose, invest in a proper ski-specific drill bit like the Wintersteiger or ProSSS for clean, safe mounting. Your knees and your wallet will thank you. Take the time to measure your boot soles, verify compatibility, and mount carefully. The backcountry is no place for a sloppy setup. Stay safe, ski hard, and enjoy the skin track in 2026.