The Salomon QST X Ski comes matched with the S/LAB Shift 2 16 MN Binding, a setup built for skiers who won't trade downhill power for uphill efficiency. The QST X's 116mm waist and twin-tip shape float through bottomless snow while cork damplifiers and flax carbon fibers keep chatter down at speed, and the ski still holds an edge when the terrain firms up. The Shift 2's 3-Part Power Heel and 16mm of elastic travel drive every edge with real conviction, so switching out of tour mode never feels like stepping down to a lesser binding. What Our Gearhead(R) Experts Are Saying:"I skinned up a long approach and dropped into a steep, consequential line expecting to feel some give in the binding, and it held with the same conviction as a full alpine setup. Touring back up never felt like a concession to get there."