The Defender is a new addition to Salomon’s binding line-up for 2014/15. Designed around the proprietary Shadow Fit baseplate/highback, the Defender offers outstanding support & performance. Fluid, but firm. Specification: • Shadow Fit Baseplate • Crossbow • Composite 45% • Adjustable Toe Ramps • Universal Discs • IMS • Defender Highbacks • SCS + Full EVA Padding • Canted Footbeds • 3D Asymmetric Supreme Ankle Straps • Locked-Up Toe Strap • Micro Max Strap Adjustment • Power Glide Aluminium Buckles • Flex 7
Features: Base/ Heelcups Shadow Fit Baseplates feature a heel cup design not found on any other bindings. A flexible loop, creates the heel cup of the baseplate, supported (and adjusted) by a Kevlar Quickwire to add strength & stiffness. The combination creates a stiff, but flexible lightweight binding with great adjustability. Crossbow allows the Kevlar Quickwire to be under greater tension. This increases the power & response, from the already fantastic Shadow Fit Baseplates Composite 45% Baseplates are pretty stiff. Hard charging/heavier riders will appreciate the added response. Adjustable Toe Ramps (or ‘gas pedal’) means that you can dial out the gap often found under the between your toes, & your bindings. SCS + Full EVA is Salomon’s highest level of cushioning & shock absorption. 2 Degree Canted Footbeds naturally follow the angle of your feet/legs, to provide a significantly more comfortable ride than without. Also improves ollies & stability on landings. Straps: 3D Asymetric Supreme Ankle Straps are (as the name suggests) asymmetric, for the most accurate match to your snowboard boot. 3D contouring, & soft padding finish off the ideal all day comfort ankle strap. Locked-Up Toe Straps completely envelope the toe box of any snowboard boot to ensure that your toes stay put. Highback: Defender Highbacks are an asymmetric, ergonomic profile, with reinforced nylon for added response & control. Highly adjustable thanks to Salomon’s Shadow fit technology. This is Salomon’s top end nylon highback. HB Filter is Salomon’s proprietary highback cushioning material, designed to reduce chatter & subsequent leg fatigue. Discs/hardware: Power Glide Aluminium Buckles are 3D geometry moulded for a lightweight, quick & powerful ratchet with buttery smooth action. Universal Discs will fit any snowboard currently on the market. 2x 4, 4x 4 3D, The Channel. Whatever you ride, these will fit. IMS or ‘ Integrated Mounting System’ is awesome. It keeps your bolts secured to your discs, for super easy installation, & to eliminate the moment of dread each year when you pull out your gear & are missing a binding bolt/washer. Good work guys, good work. The Defender is a pretty nifty bit of kit. The Shadow Fit design ticks a lot of boxes, & might well be a very good solution to ov