ATK Trofeo Binding Review

ATK Trofeo Binding Review
The ATK Trofeo is an incredibly light ski touring binding. It features nicely machined aluminum components and provides decent functionality. However, there are major issues with the rotation of the heal piece. Basically grit and water get into the rotation mechanism and impede its function with limited use. I’ve found it needs to be serviced multiple times per season. While the service is relatively simple, the aluminum screws are easy to strip and compared to other bindings in the same class the Trofeo is extremely finicky.
Another thing to consider is the need to purchase crampon slots and adjustment plates separately—they don’t come with them. Ultimately, it’s worth spending a bit more money and getting a higher quality binding with your initial purchase.
ATK Trofeo Binding Maintenance: Occasionally, the ATK Trofeo bindings require maintenance. If you notice the heel pieces are becoming harder to rotate, it’s time to service them. The service procedure is quite simple. The more frequent and less complicated service cycle is to clean and grease the heal rotation groove. You’ll notice in this photo, it is covered and volcanic pumice and is in dire need of service.

If you feel you need to do the more involved service, start by marking where your heel piece sit on the adjustment plate. You can do this with a marker or a box knife. Then remove the mounting screws.

Once you remove the heel piece start by cleaning the exterior and the vertical chase on the heel tower.

Loosen the torx screw in the tower, while carefully holding the two pieces together. There is a tiny spring-loaded ball bearing and cup in there.

Once you get them apart, clean the heel tower and carefully disassemble the spring-loaded ball bearing.


Once the spring assembly is taken out, wipe it down and clean the heal piece.


ATK provides a grease for their bindings, it’s probably best to use that grease. However I didn’t have any on hand so I used a light automotive grease instead. The screw that holds the heel piece to the heel tower requires a dab of red loc-tite.

Once the binding is reassembled, check it to see how it rotates and wipe off any excess grease.