On-slope evaluation of release bindings for world-class alpine racers

The alpine release bindings are set as indicated by the scale given in deca N.m (DIN) to the wanted release torque. The actual release torque of the toe unit was measured and calculated in 89 World Cup and national class racers during the Norwegian national championship in 1992. The deviation of the actual release torque from the desired release torque was calculated. The actual release torque was higher than the wanted release torque, with a mean deviation of 24% and a large dispersion from -28% to 130%. For the second testing, this deviation was reduced to 15%. The deviation of the actual release torque from the desired release torque was not related to age of the binding or class of skier (World Cup, European Cup or national class racers). Compared with a similar investigation 10 years ago, there was no significantly lower deviation.