The Karakoram Grizzly is Karakoram's entry level softboot splitboard binding. It comes with the interface kit (Ride Mode 2.0, Tour Mode and SingleSpeed Riser) and uses Active Joining, so there are no pins and no play in ride mode.

What it's for

The Grizzly is for riders getting into splitboarding who want a binding that feels like a resort binding on the way down. It is a Prime Connect family binding with a softer highback and lower sidewalls than Karakoram's alpine models.

How it works

Ride mode and Active Joining: The binding drops onto the Ride Mode interface that is bolted to the board. Closing the lever spring loads the binding to the board, so the contact points near the board edges are preloaded and there is no play. Karakoram says the binding is fully locked when all three pins stick through the ride mode hold down loops, the heel lever snaps over center and the safety lock sits over the lever.

Interlocking seam tabs: The Ride Mode parts on each board half have preloaded interlocking tabs that keep the seam from separating.

Tour mode: The binding's axle sits in a quick release touring bracket. Independent sleeves rotate on a fixed thru axle for the touring pivot. Karakoram describes the tour mode as self cleaning: pushing the axle into the cradle clears snow and ice.

Heel riser: The kit includes the SingleSpeed Riser, which mounts to the board under your heel for climbing.

Changeovers: Karakoram calls its changeover Drop On. The binding sets down onto the interface from above and locks with the lever. Snow ejection channels help clear packed snow.

Features

• Highback: AirFlow highback, described by Karakoram as its softest, flex 6 of 10
• Straps: AirForm strap with independent pressure pods that move with the boot to reduce pressure points
• Sidewalls: Surf sidewall, lower and softer for more freedom of movement
• Buckles: Carbon buckles made from recycled carbon fiber

Compatibility

• Board inserts: Karakoram states its interface mounts to the insert pattern used on production splitboards that also accept the Voile interface
• Insert spacing: Standard ride mode spacing is 3.375 in, plus or minus 0.0625 in. Boards outside that range need changes to the Ride Mode parts.
• Pucks: Not compatible with Voile pucks. Karakoram bindings use their own interface with five attachment points.
• Board clips: Karakoram states its bindings must be used with Karakoram clips and are not compatible with Voile hooks
• Solid boards: Karakoram Quiver Connectors, sold separately, let you mount the binding on a solid snowboard
• Edge grip accessory: Karakoram's Flex Lock is sold separately

Sizing and fit

• Small: US 6 to 8
• Medium: US 8.5 to 11
• Large (not in this listing): US 11.5 to 13

Care and service

• Screws: Karakoram recommends a regular check of the side screws, highback and strap hardware and the tour mode axle
• Loose hardware: Apply a few drops of thread locker to the threads and tighten again
• Changeovers: Clear snow from the inner seam of the board and from the interface before you lock in
• Shop service: OMG can mount the interface on your splitboard

In the box

• Bindings: 1 pair
• Interface kit: Ride Mode 2.0, Tour Mode and SingleSpeed Riser

You will also need

• Board clips: Karakoram clips on the board, if not already fitted