ISO 11088 CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

Choosing your skier type.

Your Skier Type is NOT your ego—it is a critical mechanical setting that determines the balance between accidental release and emergency retention.

Type -I

Extremely Cautious

ISO Modifier: -1 Row Step

Designed specifically for brand new skiers, juniors, or individuals with preexisting joint or ligament concerns who prioritize premature release over retention.

Speed PreferenceVery slow on flat slopes

Typical TerrainMagic carpets & beginner nursery slopes

Release vs RetentionReleases at minimum threshold at the slightest fall

Type I

Cautious / Beginner

ISO Modifier: 0 Steps (Baseline)

The standard baseline profile. Prefers binding settings that release quickly in a fall rather than risking knee or lower leg injury.

Speed PreferenceSlow to moderate cruising

Typical TerrainGreen circles and gentle groomed blue runs

Release vs RetentionReleases easily to protect developing technique

Type II

Moderate / All-Mountain

ISO Modifier: +1 Row Step

Represents the vast majority of recreational adult skiers. Balances reliable retention during carved turns with timely release during higher-energy falls.

Speed PreferenceModerate to fast cruising

Typical TerrainBlue cruisers, mild black diamonds, and varied groomed terrain

Release vs RetentionBalanced release tension resisting unwanted release on groomers

Type III

Aggressive / Expert

ISO Modifier: +2 Row Steps

Experienced skiers who regularly encounter aggressive G-forces in bumps or steeps where an accidental pre-release could cause catastrophic falls.

Speed PreferenceFast to very fast on steep slopes

Typical TerrainSteep black/double-black groomers, moguls, powder, and trees

Release vs RetentionHigh retention force; releases only in severe high-impact crashes

Type III+

Racer / Extreme Freeride

ISO Modifier: +3 Row Steps (Custom)

Elite competitors and extreme freeriders who accept substantial joint injury risk to prevent catastrophic high-speed binding release.

Speed PreferenceFull competition race pace / cliff drops

Typical TerrainFIS race courses, extreme backcountry couloirs, high park jumps

Release vs RetentionMaximum mechanical retention; high risk of injury in twisting falls

Why You Should Never "Over-Classify" Your Skier Type

Many intermediate skiers mistakenly request Type III settings under the assumption that a higher number makes them look like better skiers. In reality, setting bindings to Type III when you do not generate sufficient dynamic force to trigger an emergency release significantly elevates the risk of spiral tibia fractures and ACL/MCL knee ligament tears during a fall.

Always select the lowest skier type that reliably prevents inadvertent pre-release during your normal skiing routine.

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