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Early last week, Mountain took to the scratchy slopes of Alta—this was before storms dumped 40-plus inches on Utah's Wasatch—to ski the Salomon Guardian 16 binding.

The Guardian 16 is designed to offer a single option for skiing in-bounds and touring the backcountry. It's distinguished by a Low Profile Chassis (the base plate stands 26mm above the ski) and 80mm width to improve power transmission on modern fat skis. A DIN range of 7–16 accommodates a range of skiers. Plus, it boasts the ability to switch from ride to hike mode without stepping out of the binding.

Alta's frontside threw everything at the Guardians: groomers, steeps with dust on crust, variable tree skiing, and wind-packed powder. No matter what, they felt just as powerful and reliable as top-of-the-line alpine bindings.

The moment of truth came on a short tour up the ridge from Alta's Wildcat chair. Switching from ski to hike mode using only a pole is simple and intuitive: Use the pole tip to slide back a tab behind the heel, releasing the binding. Flip the pole, and use the pole grip to hook the climbing bar under the binding to keep it in tour mode. It was easy to stride along and climb angled slopes, edge into sidehills, and execute switchbacks. A flat nose on the toe allows a 90-degree pivot on the uphill. At the end of the climb—depending on individual acrobatic ability—simply strip skins from skis, then flip the climbing bar behind the binding and step down to return to ski mode.

The only drawback? When the climbing bar is upright, it can slip back and allow you to step into ski mode mid-tour. It's a rare fluke with an easy fix: Just reach back and release with a pole. Overall, the Guardian 16 is an efficient option for anyone who wants power and performance on either side of the ropes. Available Fall 2012. $550; salomon.com —Olivia Dwyer