Most telemark bindings do not need climbing aids because the heel is always free—this is one of telemark's advantages. However, some NTN bindings have active heel pieces that create resistance on the uphill. These models may include a touring mode or heel riser to reduce that resistance. For 75mm bindings, no climbing aid is needed or available; the free heel provides natural stride efficiency.
Ski Bindings · Telemark Bindings
Do I need climbing aids or heel risers with telemark bindings?
Related gear types
If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.
Alpine Touring Frame Bindings
$300 – $650
AT bindings with a hinged frame that allows heel lift for uphill travel and locks down for alpine-like downhill performance.
hinged frame designwalk mode with heel liftalpine-like downhill mode
Cross-Country Bindings
$25 – $130
Lightweight Nordic bindings for cross-country skiing, available in systems for classic, skate, and touring disciplines.
toe-only attachmentultralightNNN/Prolink/Turnamic or SNS compatibility
More questions
- Should I choose 75mm or NTN telemark bindings?
- Can I use telemark bindings with alpine boots?
- Are non-releasable 75mm telemark bindings safe?
- How long does it take to learn telemark skiing?