Bindings are the least glamorous part of any ski set-up, and arguably the most important. Knee injuries remain among the most common in skiing, and Tyrolia’s Protector bindings were designed specifically to address the falls that conventional bindings struggle with. For 2026/27, the Protector+ family brings that technology to racers and freeskiers.
As featured in InTheSnow magazine, Issue 82
The Protector Bindings from HEAD (Tyrolia) have become renowned for their safety and compatibility with their system skis. The Trusted full heel release technology now also steps into the racing segment with Protector+ Freeflex and introduces an additional model to the Freeski segment with Protector+ Attack. With a lower stand height and higher DINs, offering greater safety at the highest performance level.
| Key specs | |
|---|---|
| RRP | £110 to £240, model dependent |
| Key technology | Full Heel Release (vertical and lateral) |
| New for 26/27 | Protector+ Freeflex (racing), Protector+ Attack (freeski) |
| Example: Protector+ Attack 14 GW | DIN 4 to 14, 21mm stand height |
| Attack 14 GW brake widths | 95, 110, 120mm |
| Boot compatibility (Attack 14 GW) | Alpine (ISO 5355) and GripWalk (ISO 23223) |
| Stockist | Multiple UK retailers |
How does Full Heel Release work?
A conventional heel piece releases upwards. Tyrolia’s Full Heel Release can also release sideways at the heel. The idea is to help in awkward, twisting falls, particularly backward-twisting falls, where a standard heel may stay locked and load the knee. HEAD cites simulations from the University of Innsbruck suggesting a reduction of more than 50% in force on the anterior cruciate ligament with Protector+ Freeflex. It is worth noting that figure comes from computer modelling rather than on-snow testing, but the principle is sound and the system has been on the market for several seasons now.
What is new this season?
Protector+ Freeflex brings Full Heel Release into racing, where skiers have traditionally been reluctant to trade any performance for release safety. Protector+ Attack is a new freeski model. Tyrolia has lowered the stand height and raised the DIN range, so stronger skiers do not have to choose between a robust binding and modern release technology. The Attack 14 GW, for example, runs from DIN 4 to 14 with a 21mm stand height.
Our InTheSnow review
Bindings rarely get anyone excited. Which is a shame, because they’re the piece of kit most likely to look after your knees.
Tyrolia’s Protector system has been on the market for several seasons now, and Protector+ takes it to the two groups who have historically been hardest to convince: racers and strong freeskiers. The Attack 14 GW’s 21mm stand height and DIN range up to 14 mean you’re no longer choosing between a robust, high-retention binding and modern release technology. That’s real progress.
Realistically, the headline figure of more than 50% less load on the knee ligament comes from university computer simulations rather than real-world injury data, so treat it as promising rather than proven. And any binding is only as good as its setting, so have it fitted and adjusted by a qualified technician. But if you’re buying new bindings this season, Protector+ deserves to be right at the top of your list.
The InTheSnow verdict
InTheSnow rating: 4.5 out of 5
Protector has always been one of the most interesting safety stories in skiing, and the Protector+ range brings it to the skiers who were least likely to consider it. If knee safety matters to you, and it should, it deserves a place on your shortlist.
What we like
- Full Heel Release now in race and freeski models
- Lower stand height and higher DINs on Attack
- Works with alpine and GripWalk soles (Attack 14 GW)
Worth knowing
- Injury reduction figures come from simulations
- Always have bindings fitted and set by a qualified technician
- Check boot sole compatibility for your model
Who should buy it?
Strong piste and freeski skiers who want high retention without giving up on release safety, and racers looking for an extra margin of protection. HEAD’s system skis, including the new Discovery range, come paired with Protector bindings.
FAQs
What is Full Heel Release?
It is Tyrolia’s heel design that can release vertically and laterally. This is intended to help in falls where a conventional heel would stay locked, such as backward-twisting falls linked to knee injuries.
What is the difference between Protector+ Freeflex and Protector+ Attack?
Protector+ Freeflex brings Full Heel Release to racing. Protector+ Attack is a new freeski model with a lower stand height and higher DIN settings.
Are Tyrolia Protector+ bindings GripWalk compatible?
The Protector+ Attack 14 GW accepts both standard alpine and GripWalk boot soles. Check compatibility for your specific model and boot with your retailer.
Where to buy
Available from multiple UK retailers. See the full range at HEAD.
Specification
Price: £110 to £240