Powerful and fast

Powder Magazine
September 2007

Rottefella NTN $330 ($350 with brakes)

3.9 lbs

The NTN (New Telemark Norm), touted as the next revolution in tele technology, will certainly have its audience-as well as its detractors. Here's how it works: Compatible with duckbill-less tele boots, the binding secure point is below the ball of the boot-not the toe or the heel. So there's no heel throw or cable, and the binding is engaged to the boot by activating a lever in front of the toe. Resistance is provided by springs located below the ball of the boot, available in five different strengths. How does it ski? In our experience, the NTN felt torsionally solid on edge and for making...parallel alpine turns. So it's very powerful and fast, but those who prefer deep knee bends might find themselves wishing for the freedom of a cable. The NTN, which is not yet DIN-releaseable but has brakes, also comes with a free-pivot touring mode and a climbing bar.