Italian Binding Manufacturer ATK is Changing the Game with the Launch of its New Solid Aluminum ‘HY’ Hybrid Freeride Binding

[Dec. 13, 2024 – Fiorano Modenese, Italy] – ATK, renowned for its cutting-edge ski binding technology, has unveiled the Hy, a revolutionary hybrid ski binding that redefines the balance between alpine-level downhill performance and lightweight touring capabilities. Designed for skiers who seamlessly transition between freeride and ski touring, the Hy offers unprecedented responsiveness, precision, and versatility, making it an ideal companion for those exploring the most challenging types of terrain.

At the core of the Hy’s innovation is its lightweight design, weighing just 675 grams per half-pair. This impressive feat is achieved through meticulous engineering, with 22 individual components machined from solid aluminum in one half-pair. The result is a binding that combines exceptional durability and strength while retaining the lightness needed for long ascents.

“One Quiver Solution”—Alpine Performance with Touring Ease

Skiers no longer need to compromise between touring convenience and downhill performance. The Hy’s design eliminates the pin height differential typically found in traditional touring bindings, ensuring a flat boot-to-ski connection. This feature delivers an alpine-like feel that boosts confidence and precision during descents, whether on steep backcountry lines or groomed resort runs.

For ascents, the Hy offers three walking modes:

• -18mm: Enhances stride extension and walking efficiency, especially on flat terrain.
• +10mm and +34mm: Provide heel risers for steeper climbs, easily adjusted with ski poles.

This flexibility ensures the Hy performs exceptionally well in both backcountry touring and freeride environments, making it the ideal “one quiver solution” for skiers.

Cutting-Edge Design and Technology

The ATK Hy is built to accommodate a wide range of boot soles, including alpine skiing, ski mountaineering, and freeride boots.

It also features:

• Release Range: HY 11 Free (4-11) and HY 13 Free (6-13) for tailored performance.
• Heel Elastic Travel: 7mm (E.R.S) for improved shock absorption and comfort.
• Skibrake Options: Available in 97mm, 108mm, and 120mm widths.
• Materials: Premium Aluminum 7075, POM, and stainless steel ensure durability and performance.

In addition, the Anti Friction Device (AFD) system uses specialized spacers to optimize compatibility with different sole thicknesses, improving power transfer while dampening vibrations for a smoother ride.

Voices Behind the Innovation

ATK’s leadership, engineers, and professional testers have praised the Hy’s performance, hailing it as a major leap forward in hybrid binding design.

• Davide Indulti, CEO of ATK, emphasized the Hy’s groundbreaking technology:
  “This binding combines an impressive array of advanced technologies while remaining incredibly intuitive and easy to use, making it a game-changer for all skiers.”
• Giovanni Indulti, Founder of ATK, highlighted the engineering behind the Hy:
  “The Hy is the result of extreme engineering. Every single component is precisely machined from solid blocks of aluminum, offering unmatched lightness and durability.”
• Nikolai Schirmer, Professional Skier and Tester, shared his first reaction:
  “When I first saw the prototype for the Hy, I was like, ‘Holy hell.’ Alpine performance in the downhill, with that ATK weight for the uphill. This is the hybrid binding skiers have been waiting for.”
• Luca Beccari, IFMGA Mountain Guide and Tester, praised its balance for both touring and freeride:
  “With its incredibly low weight and exceptional downhill performance, this binding is a dream come true for skiers like me. During the ascent, all I can think about is how amazing the descent will be.”
• Raffaele Raimondi, Ski Instructor and Tester, underlined its carving precision:
  “Thanks to the advanced technologies in the AFD system and the flat position for downhill, this binding offers exceptional carving precision and performance, giving skiers the confidence to push their limits on any terrain, even in the resort.”

Intuitive and Easy-to-Use Design

The Hy’s usability is one of its standout features. Transitioning between ascent and descent modes is smooth and efficient, requiring only a few simple actions:

1. Ascent Mode: Pull the rear lever completely forward, lock the ski brake by pushing on the pedal, and rotate the toe arms upward.
2. Descent Mode: Push the rear lever fully downward and rotate the toe arms toward the front lever to set the binding to descent mode. Then,
   simply step-in like you do on a traditional alpine ski binding.

This intuitive system eliminates the need for extra components or adjustments, ensuring a seamless experience for skiers on any terrain.

Availability

Starting December 20th, 2024, a limited number of Hy 13 Free Black bindings will be available for pre-order through atkbindings.com and select retail partners worldwide, with deliveries beginning in February 2025. Full-scale distribution of the Hy will commence in September 2025. HY OFFICIAL PAGE.

Skiers and retailers eager to know more on the future of hybrid bindings can fill the form on ATK website for further information. 

The Future of Freeride and Touring

The ATK Hy is shaking things up in the world of ski bindings, combining the best of lightweight touring with top-notch alpine performance. With its innovative design, easy-to-use features, and rave reviews from pros and testers, the Hy is set to change how skiers tackle the mountains.

Whether you’re grinding through a tough backcountry climb or ripping down a steep powder run, the ATK Hy has your back. It’s the kind of gear that makes you wonder how you ever skied without it.