Overall Rating
- Ease of use(5)
- Uphill behavior(5)
- Downhill behavior(4.5)
- Weight(4.5)
Summary
Evolution of a model born in 2011, which was intended to be the perfect meeting point between the touring and racing worlds, as emphasized by the acronym RT: “Race Touring.” The new model is now a complete touring binding: lightweight and highly functional on the ascent, but capable of delivering remarkable performance on the descent as well.
Pros
- Ease of toe insertion
- Ease of use of the heel lift
- Functionality of the Evo Brake System
Cons
- None
The ATK RT 11 Evo is the latest evolution of the RT series, a truly groundbreaking model.
In fact, the Modena-based company has rethought the binding, shifting the focus from uphill performance alone to a more complete and versatile use, entirely designed for the touring world.
Among its features are the adjustable side release load, two practical heel lift steps, the innovative Elastic Response System, which preserves the natural elasticity of the ski, and the Evo Brake System, recognized as one of the most practical and efficient systems for ski brake management.
Atk RT 11 Evo technical features
- Materials: 7075 aluminum and stainless steel
- Lateral toe release and vertical heel piece release, adjustable from 3 to 11
- Length adjustment: 20mm
- Integrated ski-brake with uphill lockout via heel piece rotation
- Heel piece with 3 walking positions: base, +26mm, +47mm
- Heel lift with magnetic blocks and operable with poles
- Easy entry system: geometry of toe-attachment elements with easy step-in
- Integrated rampant mount
- Ski-brake width 86, 91, 97, 102mm
- Binding weight: 325 gr, each
- Country of manufacture: Italy
- Link to the manufacturer
Test mode
I tested the ATK RT 11 EVO during some spring outings, with elevation gains between 800 and 1800 meters. Thanks to the late snowfall, I had the opportunity to test it on a wide range of snow conditions, from soft powder to the dreaded “DOC crust.”
I tested the binding on the Majesty Superpatrol, a ski that allowed me to assess their overall solidity. As for boots, I mainly used the La Sportiva Kilo, alternating them for a single outing with the Scarpa Quattro XT.
Atk RT 11 Evo on-site test
How they look like
The Modena-based company ATK stands out for its use of the highest quality materials, and the RT EVO 11 is a confirmation of this. Although this model is not part of the “Raider” family, it conveys a feeling of sturdiness from the very first glance, offering safety even on the most challenging slopes.
The tip
The tip of the RT EVO 11 is a concentration of innovation. Among its main features is the Snowpack Proof System, which hides the springs to prevent snow and ice from compromising operation, thus increasing reliability.
Geometrically, the binding features a hybrid drilling system: narrow front holes and wider rear holes. This solution follows the profile of the boot, optimizing the transmission of forces between ski and binding.
The lever for locking and exiting the boot is excellently designed. It is easy to operate both by hand and with a pole, thanks to a front insert that facilitates pressure.
An additional strength is the ability to adjust the side release load, a feature that significantly improves safety in the event of a fall or accident.
Finally, the Easy Entry System makes boot insertion especially easy, a detail that is appreciated in awkward situations.
The heel piece
The heel piece is distinguished by its stability and precision of boot engagement. The heart of the innovation is the Elastic Response System, which allows the heel piece to slide toward the tail of the ski during flexing. This improves comfort and preserves the integrity of the set up.
The vertical release value is adjustable with a DIN range from 3 to 11, covering the needs of a wide range of skiers. A practical detail is the laser engraving on the pins, which allows the binding to be easily adjusted for different boots without the need for spacers.
The Heel Flaps
The Magneto Heel Flaps system allows three ascent modes: FLAT, +26 mm and +47 mm. Thanks to the integrated magnets, adjustment of the heel riser is intuitive and can be done effortlessly with the pole. In my opinion, it is the most comfortable system currently available on the market.
The ski-brake
The brake, while not minimalist, is well sized for the touring skis for which this binding is intended. The system is simple and effective: to switch to the uphill mode, simply rotate the heel piece 180° and apply light pressure with the heel of the boot. Similarly, to activate the brake in descent mode, simply rotate the heel piece 180° again. It’s better to perform this operation before removing the skins or placing the ski on the ground, thus avoiding unpleasant slipping of the ski downhill!
Feeling while skiing
During the test, the binding was mounted on a Majesty Superpatrol, a ski that offers great downhill satisfaction. The feeling with the RT EVO 11 was excellent, always living up to expectations.
On only one occasion did I feel I was on the edge, but the conditions were extreme: icy snow that rattled the teeth, one of those “who made me do it” exits.
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Recommended for
The Atk RT 11 Evo is an ideal binding for those looking for a lightweight, high-performance and versatile touring set up.
- Novice skiers: will appreciate the ease of use.
- Experienced skiers: will value its reliability and light weight.
The only possible deterrent might be the price, but the performance and quality make it an investment worth every euro. A great binding, really for everybody.
