G3 Ion 12 Binding Review
G3 says that the Ion 12 binding is:
“THE MOST INTUITIVE, RELIABLE AND POWERFUL LIGHTWEIGHT TOURING BINDING. PERIOD.”
After spending season 2016-2017 on them, I have to say they may be biased but they are also correct.
This binding is freaking awesome, so here is our G3 Io 12 binding review in its full glory.
Photos
The Ion 12 (with brake) is a beautiful binding combining dark grey with bright orange accents.
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- Full Ion 12
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- Ion 12 heel piece
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- Ion 12 toe piece
“Intuitive, Reliable, Powerful”
I had never owned a true pair of touring bindings before the Ion 12, though I have toured for a few years always on regular touring bindings. I have to be honest that I was a bit concerned that I may overpower these bindings by riding them tough both inbounds as well as out of bounds.
I never felt insecure in these bindings. I’ve put them through their paces both in knee-deep powder and steep icy moguls, and I have to say I felt just as secure in them (and maybe less apt to pop an ACL) using the Ion 12s than a more classic touring binding.
When clipping in to start a tour, the Ion 12 is snappy and precise. I’ve never accidentally stepped into or out of it and never come out when I didn’t want.
When it comes to weight, the Ion 12 cannot be beat. I prefer the brake setup as it’s more in line with my skiing and style of touring. The brake adds a tiny bit of weight, but that is worthwhile to me in order to never lose a ski down the mountain when I don’t want to (unlike some friends with tethers). The only thing to be aware of is to remember to release the brakes when you take off your skins!
Specifications
FEATURES
- Optimal Energy Absorption = Maximized energy absorption. Minimized pre-releases.
- Forward Pressure = Maintains consistent release values in landings and compressions.
- Step-In Guidance = Quick, easy & consistent step-in.
- QuickFlick Heel Lifts = Easy to grab with pole or hand.
- User Friendly Heel Rotation = Turn heel in either direction to lock for touring with either hand.
- Single Tool = Pozi Drive #3 for all mounts and adjustments. No heel spacer needed.
- Snow Clearing Channel = Prevents snow buildup, avoids unwanted pre-releases.
- Powerful, Dependable Brake = Fully retracting spring-loaded brake. Reassuring step-in.
- Heel AFD = Consistent release for all boots, independent of sole type.
Official description
Since its rookie season G3’s ION alpine touring binding has collected 3+ prestigious Editor’s choice awards each season and spawned a whole series of lightweight tech bindings including the ION 10 and lighter ION LT 12. Coveted by skiers around the globe, the ION’s feature set and performance has earned a loyal following from seasoned mountain guides to resort freeriders looking to go deeper beyond the boundary lines. Easy, confident step-in sets the tone of the day so you can put your gear in the back of your mind and focus on what really matters – your ski objective. Forward pressure and optimal energy absorption provide a smooth, reliable ride that aggressive skiers have been begging for in the backcountry.
Simply put, it’s the highest performing, most user friendly and most reliable lightweight tech binding you could ask for. Power up, then charge the descent.
Price
The G3 Ion 12 is definitely not the cheapest touring binding on the market, but if you can afford it and want the best then I highly recommend it.
The Ion 12 retails for $579 for the 2017/2018 model and you can find the 16/17 model (the one I ride) for around $479.
Final Words
I love this binding and do not regret buying it one bit. Paired with my Black Crows Navis Freebirds, I can go anywhere and ski anything with confidence.
I highly recommend this binding.
