Tag: telemark

22 Designs Bandit – A Beast In Bounds

by TeleTay

All-New for the 2024-2025 Season: The 22 Designs Bandit

Introducing the 22 Designs Bandit, an NTN telemark binding developed with a singular purpose: ripping turns in-bounds. Sharing much of its design with the popular Outlaw X, the Bandit completes the NTN binding lineup from 22 Designs, based in Driggs, Idaho.

The 22 Designs NTN lineup now features three bindings: the all-new Bandit, the tried-and-true Outlaw X, and the lightweight Lynx.

The NTN Lineup Overview

Lynx: A backcountry/uphill-focused NTN telemark binding, the Lynx is lightweight and features a tech toe interface for fully free-pivot touring.

Outlaw X: Known for its classic toe cage style, the Outlaw X combines a powerful, resort-ready design with the free-pivot touring mechanism from the iconic 75mm AXL. It’s versatile enough for both resort laps and skin track adventures, making it a favorite among telemark skiers.

Bandit: Purpose-built for lift-served skiing, the Bandit lacks a touring mechanism, offering the most direct connection to your telemark skis. It also introduces a never before seen on telemark bindings feature: retractable brakes that move up and inside your ski edges, similar to alpine bindings.

The Bandit in Detail

The Bandit is available with three spring sets—Softie, Standard, and Stiffy—allowing for incredible customization. Each spring set is adjustable from 1 to 5 in terms of preload, offering 15 unique tension settings to suit your preference. Brakes are available in four sizes (80mm, 95mm, 110mm, and 125mm).

This binding is designed specifically for riding chairlifts, gondolas, and rope tows. Its lack of a free-pivot touring mechanism enhances lateral control and creates a more precise connection with your ski edges. For downhill enthusiasts, this translates to a powerful and seamless telemark experience.

Another standout feature of the Bandit is its innovative brake design. Unlike other NTN bindings, which use a simpler brake mechanism that moves up when the boot clips in, the Bandit’s brakes retract into the ski edges, akin to alpine bindings.

Key Takeaways from Testing

Having spent time on the Bandit, here are my impressions:

  1. Enhanced Lateral Control: The Bandit provides more precise edge connection than the Outlaw X, thanks to its simplified design. While the Outlaw X is excellent, its touring mechanism can develop side-to-side play over time as bushings wear. The Bandit eliminates this issue, delivering consistent power.
  2. Refined Step-In Mechanism: The Bandit features a slightly different brake design compared to the Outlaw X. While 22 Designs markets the Bandit as a “step-in binding,” I’d describe it more as a “slide-in binding.” Aligning the boot with the toe cage and claw requires precision, but the molded plastic on the Bandit’s brakes makes this process easier than the wire bend design on the Outlaw X.

    However, the stiffer springs in the Bandit’s brake mechanism can make stepping in more difficult if the boot isn’t properly aligned. When lined up correctly, the binding is effortless to engage.

Mounting Considerations: The Bandit shares the classic 6-hole 22 Designs mounting pattern. However, if you’re using binding inserts (e.g., Quiver Killer or Binding Freedom) originally drilled for the Outlaw X or Lynx, note that the Bandit shifts your boot center forward by 1.3cm. For new ski mounts, this is a non-issue but requires slightly different positioning of the jig or paper template.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an NTN telemark binding with serious downhill power, the Bandit is the answer. It delivers the same smooth and powerful telemark sensation as the Outlaw X—but with improved precision and control. For those who value lift-served performance above all else, the Bandit is a game-changer.

Before Selling Your Used Telemark Boots, Read This

by TeleTay

Before selling your used telemark boots, read this

When selling used telemark boots on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Craigslist, there are a few key factors that often confuse sellers—especially regarding sizing. A clear, accurate listing is essential for connecting with buyers and avoiding frustration.

Your boots are NOT “Size ⅞ DX,” “Size 25.5-27.0,” or “Size 9.”
 Do not list them like this! These descriptions aren’t helpful or accurate.

Step 1: Identify the Size

Listing the correct size is the most important piece of information for your listing. Telemark boots are sized using the Mondo sizing system, which corresponds to the length of your foot in centimeters. For example, a size 27.0 boot is designed to fit a foot that’s 27 cm long.

Here’s how to determine your boots’ size:

Check the liner:
 The Mondo size is usually printed on the liner, either on the inside tongue or the outside heel. This marking can wear off over time, so if it’s missing, don’t worry—there are other ways to determine the size.

Examples:

    Example of 27.0 tongue style liner from Scarpa.
    Example of 26.5 wrap style liner from Scarpa.

    Understand the shell (Scafo):
     Telemark boots are made up of four main parts: the shell (Scafo), cuff, tongue, and liner. The shell size is what matters most, as it determines the fit and structure of the boot. Each shell size typically accommodates two liner sizes (e.g., 26.5 and 27.0).

    • Scarpa/Crispi: Shells break on the whole size (e.g., 26.5/27.0).
    • Scott/Garmont/Black Diamond: Shells break on the half size (e.g., 27.0/27.5).

    Check the shell for markings:
     Older Scarpa boots (prior to the 2024 TX Pro 2.0) used UK sizing to mark their shells (e.g., 27.0 Mondo = UK 8). Other brands like Garmont, Scott, Black Diamond, and Crispi typically use Mondo sizing.

    • Look on the shell for the size, which is often stamped on the inside or outside of the boot.
    • Some boots are also stamped with their Boot Sole Length (BSL) in millimeters. This measurement can also confirm the shell size.
      Example of single size UK 8 stamped on scafo of NTN telemark boot.
      Example of size 8 UK stamped on the sole of a Scarpa T1 Telemark Boot
      Boot sole length (BSL) shown in millimeters

      Parts stamped with ambiguous sizing:
       Cuffs and tongues are often used across multiple shell sizes and stamped with a broader range (e.g., 25.5-27.0 or ⅞). These markings do not provide definitive information about the boot’s size.

      Note: Scarpa boots are sometimes stamped with “DX” or “SX,” which refer to “Destra” (Right) and “Sinistra” (Left) in Italian.

      Example of a right tongue used on both 7 and 8 UK shell boots
      Example of a right tongue used on the TX Pro 2.0 2025 and TX Comp 2.0 2026
      Example of a left cuff on either size 7 or 8 UK sized telemark boots
      Scarpa size chart to help compare Mondo Sizing to UK Shell Sizing

      Step 2: Take Good Photos

      High-quality photos are crucial for a successful listing. Take pictures in a well-lit environment, and include:

      • A full shot of the pair of boots
      • Close-ups of the bellows and bellow guards/tongues
      • Toes of the boots
      • The liner and liner size
      • Buckles
      • Ski/walk mechanism
      • Any areas with notable wear or damage

      Step 3: Identify the Brand and Model

      Avoid vague listings like “Size 9 tele boots.” Buyers need more information. A good example of a clear, accurate listing is:
      “Scarpa T1, Size 27.0 – 75mm Telemark Boots.”

      This format is simple, informative, and easy to understand.

      Step 4: Describe Them Honestly

      Honesty goes a long way in building trust with potential buyers. Be clear about the boots’ condition:

      • Did you only ski them a few times and find they didn’t fit?
      • Have they seen 200+ days of use?
      • Is anything broken or not functioning properly?
      • Are there any quirks or wear-and-tear issues the buyer should know?

      Think about what you would want to know if you were purchasing the boots and include that information in your description.

      By following these steps, you’ll create a more accurate and appealing listing, helping you sell your used telemark boots faster and with fewer hassles. Happy selling!

      Scarpa TX Pro 2.0 – Everything You Need To Know

      by TeleTay

      The all new much anticipated Scarpa TX Pro is finally here. This is a complete overhaul, redesign and departure from the legacy Scarpa TX Pro. I think that we could have wished for a new name to symbolize the next generation of boots. A few that I would have liked could have been Scarpa “Terminator Pro” or “TXP” or “TX2”. Officially it is still called the TX Pro. But for the purposes of this blog post. I will refer to the new boots as TX Pro 2.0.

      Features

      -New 3 Buckle Design

      -New Powerstrap

      -New Ski/Walk Mechanism with 62* range of motion

      -New Liner

      -Shorter Boot Sole Length

      -New “Torsion Bridge Frame”

      Fit

      In regards to the fit of the TX Pro 2.0 vs TX Pro Legacy. I find the boots very similar. The new boots are a slightly different shape, but especially after you heat fit the Intuition liners. In most cases if you are upgrading from another Scarpa telemark boot, if a size 27.0 fits you well… order a size 27.0.

      Scarpa telemark boots use one plastic shell (scaffo) for both half and whole sizes. Ex: 26.5/27.0 – both use the 299mm boot sole length shells.

      The size of the shell makes the vast majority of the fit. Half size liners make little to no difference, especially if you are going to add a customized footbed and heat fit liners.

      The new shell is physically smaller, the new liner is a bit thinner, this results in a more precise fit. Ultimately I would recommend trying them on at a Scarpa retailer. Fit is subjective and boots are such a crucial part of your telemark equipment. Your best bet is to actually try this boot on for yourself.

      Uphill Performance

      This new generation of Scarpa TX Pro telemark boots are without a doubt the most backcountry friendly NTN telemark boots on the market. They weigh in at 1545g per boot (½ pair size 27.0). This is over 200 grams lighter than the legacy TX Pro. 

      The new “Speed MLT” ski/walk mechanism provides 62° range of motion compared to the 22° on the previous generation.

      The new boots walk so much better, it’s not even close. If you are a backcountry telemark skier you want these boots.

      Downhill Performance

      Bottom line this is a high performance hybrid telemark boot. Modern telemark skiers are equally at home ripping the bumps under the chairlifts at a ski area. The new TX Pro provides a similar smooth predictable flex that many of us came to know and love in the bellows, tongue, and cuff. However with how the new design of the “torsion bridge frame” wraps around your ankle. This boot is  with another level of lateral edge control. I think that some may find this takes some adjustment, but once you are able to trust this boot. The instant connection to your ski edges as you lean into the boot is noticeable. It feels very precise and powerful.

      3 buckle vs 4 buckle construction? 

      In terms of the tongue and cuff of the boot, the new generation of boots are nearly identical. I find no difference between how they fit and feel on my legs. The new boots are every bit as powerful in the resort as the old boots, but again with even more lateral control.

      Shorter Boot Sole Length (BSL)?

      If you already have a pair of telemark skis mounted for an old pair of boots… just go skiing. The difference in mount point is 4mm. You will not notice this.

      If you are mounting new skis, mount them according to the mid sole mark on the BSL of your new boots.

      2024 Season Highlights

      by TeleTay

      The video above is an incomplete window into my 2023-2024 season. I had fun clipping it together, but it doesn’t quite tell the full story. As I reflect on last season the first two things that came to mind are the sheer number of ski days and the excitement of new opportunities.

      93 days at Alta 

      13 touring days

      1 day in Keystone, CO for the 2024 Keystone IFSA Tele Champs

      1 Day at Powder Mountain for the 2024 No Joke Tele Race

      108 days in total.

      I know for a fact this is the most I have ever skied in a winter. Having never really cared to count my ski days each winter. I was curious enough to add them up for 2023-2024.

      I spent most of the winter skiing at Alta Ski Area. The 2023-2024 season with 628 inches(15.9 meters) of snow, was another above average winter. Coming off the heels of the record setting 903 inches (22.9 meters) in 2022-2023. The 2023-24 season was the perfect blend of powder days, groomer cruising days, chalky bumps, slushy spring days, and everything in between.

      Last season also included two personal highlights of podium finishes in telemark competitions. Both were fairly unique events. A big mountain freeride comp and a banked slalom race.

      A freeride competition exclusively for telemark skiers has been rare the last few years. So when we saw my friend Elliot and I were excited to make the trip down the i70 corridor. The Keystone Tele Champs was primarily an event for the u13 and u17 competitors. Colorado has an incredible scene of young big mountain telemark skiers. Multiple high schools even have big mountain freeride telemark teams. The young guns have some serious stoke and talent. The future is bright. The Adult category helped fill out participation to make the event possible.

      March 2024 – Keystone, CO – Tele Champs – 3rd Place

      The No Joke Tele Race at Powder Mountain was a banked slalom race. A week after a legendary snowboard event, the Turn & Burn. The banked slalom course was in great shape. Powder Mountain has typically had a solid local tele scene and I was excited to compete in such a unique event. A sure highlight of my winter was standing on top of this podium.

      April 2024 – Powder Mountain, UT – No Joke Tele Race – 1st Place