Fritschi Xenic Plus 12 Binding

Since the original Xenic 10 review in 2020, Fritschi has refreshed and improved its entire binding lineup, reinforcing its position as a leader in safety-focused, high-performance touring bindings. All Fritschi bindings continue to be made in Switzerland, adhering to DIN ISO standards for alpine and touring equipment. The family now includes the Xenic Plus 12, Xenic Plus 10, Tecton 10, Tecton 13, Vipec Evo 12, and Scout 11 bindings. All are Swiss-engineered with proven release mechanics and lightweight construction.

• More durable and reliable construction
• Enhanced materials with carbon-reinforced composites and high-quality metal inserts replace previous plastic components for greater strength and longevity
• Slight weight increase of 10 grams due to these robust materials
• Improved anti-icing design around the base of the toe lever
• Two independent riser levels for climbing aid

A standout feature of the Xenic Plus 12 is the horizontally sliding pin lever technology on the toe piece. Instead of traditional pin arms rotating out and down, these move laterally with no vertical displacement, providing a more secure hold and reducing pre-release risk. The toe-piece housing has also been redesigned to minimize ice buildup around the lever base.

The heel piece’s extra-wide design enhances support and ensures efficient power transmission directly to the ski. A built-in 10 mm of automatic length compensation maintains a firm hold on boots and reliable release even under heavy ski flex.

Fritschi has incorporated independent lateral and vertical release mechanisms on the heel unit, with adjustable DIN values ranging from 6 to 12. This separate release functionality accommodates a wider spectrum of skiers—from lighter beginners to aggressive athletes.

These bindings use lightweight, high-tech materials reinforced with glass or carbon fibres and high-quality metal alloys. This optimized material mix ensures maximum stability, safety, durability, and excellent performance.

• DIN range: 6–12, with independently adjustable lateral and forward release values.
• Safety system: Horizontally sliding pin levers in the toe piece absorb vertical forces to prevent unintended release, eliminating the need for a separate locking step on descents.
• Weight: 295g per binding without the ski brake.
• Power transmission: An extra-wide heel support transfers power directly and efficiently to the ski.
• Climbing aids: Two levels of climbing aids are available, set at 7° and 11°.
• Materials: Built with high-strength, lightweight, high-tech materials, including high-strength aluminum alloys and glass/carbon fibre-reinforced composites.
• Adjustment: Offers a 25 mm length adjustment range.
• Handling: Designed for easy and effortless step-in.
• Compatibility: Suitable for skis wider than 70 mm. 
• Reliable release with 10 mm longitudinal compensation for ski flex

With the new Xenic Plus 12, Fritschi continues to build on its reputation for designing bindings with cutting-edge safety features. The company has refined the Xenic platform by integrating key upgrades that enhance performance and usability. I appreciate the addition of strategically placed metal inserts and carbon-reinforced composites, which inspire confidence in the binding’s durability and longevity. The modest 10-gram weight increase is negligible—hardly noticeable on the skin track. Although I never experienced icing under the toe levers on the previous version, it’s reassuring to know that the redesign further protects against it.

The most noticeable improvement in the Xenic Plus 12 is the addition of a second riser, an overdue but welcome upgrade. The ability to raise the heel to 7° or 11° proves invaluable on steeper climbs, improving both comfort and efficiency. The ergonomically designed risers are easy to deploy and stow, preserving the binding’s minimalist profile.

Like its predecessor, the new Xenic Plus 12 retains Fritschi’s unique lateral release design, which I find safer than the traditional rotational release used by most other bindings. It performs flawlessly and provides added knee protection—a key reason I trust it to help prevent another potential ACL injury. The same goes for the independent lateral and forward release values on the heel piece.

Overall, the Xenic Plus 12 bindings deliver a solid, confidence-inspiring hold on descents, while their lightweight and intuitive design makes climbing simple and efficient. I mounted the Fritschi Xenic Plus 12 bindings on DPS Pagoda Tour CFL 105 skis—an ideal combination that forms the ultimate backcountry touring setup. You can read the full review of the DPS Pagoda Tour CFL 105 skis here.