What was recalled
In October 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving specific models of ski bindings manufactured by Marker. This action targeted the Kingpin series, a line of bindings designed specifically for alpine touring skiers who require equipment that can switch between hiking mode and skiing mode. While Marker is a well-established brand in the winter sports industry, this particular recall focused on a finite number of units produced during the 2017 and 2018 model years. The scope of the recall is precise, identifying two main variants: the Kingpin 10 and the Kingpin 13 ski bindings. These are not general-purpose bindings but specialized gear intended for use with alpine touring ski boots that feature metal pintech inserts in the toe area of each boot.
The affected products are visually distinct, making them relatively easy to identify if you own this equipment. The bindings in question feature a black body with either gold or copper accent coloring. However, color alone is not enough to confirm whether your specific pair is part of this recall. The definitive way to determine inclusion is by checking the serial numbers located on the heel units. For the Kingpin 10 model, any unit with a serial number falling between 337804 and 418632 is subject to this recall. Similarly, for the Kingpin 13 model, serial numbers ranging from 337798 to 411728 are included in the affected batch.
The recall encompasses several specific configurations based on width and demo versions. For the Kingpin 10, the affected model numbers include 7733R1MA (75-100 mm gold), 7733R1MB (100-125 mm gold), 7734R1MA (Demo version, 75-100 mm gold), 7733S1MA (75-100 mm copper), 7733S1MB (100-125 mm copper), and 7734S1MA (Demo version, 75-100 mm copper). For the Kingpin 13, the affected model numbers are 7933R1MA (75-100 mm gold), 7933R1MB (100-125 mm gold), 7934R1MB (Demo version, 100-125 mm gold), 7933S1MA (75-100 mm copper), 7933S1MB (100-125 mm copper), and 7934S1MB (Demo version, 100-125 mm copper). These bindings were sold through authorized retailers across the United States. If you purchased these items during or shortly after the 2017-2018 ski season, it is crucial to verify your serial number against the ranges provided above to ensure your safety on the slopes.
The hazard, explained
Ski bindings are complex mechanical devices designed to balance two competing needs: holding your boot securely to the ski during normal turns, and releasing quickly when a fall occurs to prevent injury. The Kingpin ski bindings recall by Marker highlights a critical failure in this balance due to a specific component flaw. The issue centers on the steel pins located within the toe unit of the binding. These pins are essential for connecting your boot’s front insert to the binding mechanism. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these particular steel pins can break under stress.
When a pin breaks, it does not merely cause the binding to fail completely; it subtly compromises the structural integrity of the release system. The binding is engineered to release your foot at a specific amount of force—known as the release force—when you are falling or twisting in a way that could injure your knee or leg. If the steel pin fractures, the binding’s ability to measure and react to that force is reduced. This means the binding may not release when it should, or it may release unpredictably. In either scenario, the result is a fall hazard that the equipment was supposed to mitigate.
Why does this matter? When a ski binding fails to release during a high-force event, such as a catch-edge moment on a steep slope, the skier’s leg remains attached to the ski while their body continues moving. This creates a lever effect that places extreme torsional stress on the knee ligaments, particularly the ACL and MCL. These injuries are among the most common and severe in skiing, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. By reducing the release force, the broken pins effectively disable the safety feature designed to protect you from these exact types of traumatic injuries.
It is important to note that this hazard is not always visible or immediately obvious. A pin may have a micro-fracture or be partially broken without showing clear signs of failure until it is subjected to significant force on the mountain. Because the Kingpin bindings are used with alpine touring ski boots that feature metal pintech inserts, the connection point is already under substantial mechanical load during both forward and backward skiing motions. The combination of this high-load interface and a compromised steel pin creates a dangerous situation where the equipment cannot be trusted to perform its primary safety function.
While no incidents have been reported to date, the potential for injury is real because the failure mode directly undermines the binding’s core purpose. A ski binding that does not release correctly turns a manageable fall into a high-risk event. This is why the remedy is not a simple software update or adjustment, but a physical replacement of the toe unit. Until the broken pins are replaced with new, intact ones, the binding cannot guarantee the release force it was designed to provide, leaving skiers vulnerable to injuries that proper equipment should prevent.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk here consists of alpine touring skiers who rely on Marker Kingpin bindings for backcountry and off-piste adventures. These are not casual downhill skiers who stay on groomed trails; they are enthusiasts who utilize specialized equipment designed to detach at the heel, allowing them to climb uphill before descending. The recalled models—specifically the 2017-2018 Kingpin 10 and Kingpin 13 bindings—are engineered for use with alpine touring boots that feature metal pintech inserts in the toe. If you own this specific combination of gear, your safety is directly impacted by the defect described in the recall.
The hazard itself targets a critical mechanical failure point: the steel pins in the toe unit. In normal operation, ski bindings are designed to release (detach from the boot) when excessive force is applied during a fall. This release mechanism is what prevents severe injuries like broken legs or knees by allowing the skier to separate from the moving ski. However, because the steel pins can break, the binding’s ability to release at the correct force is compromised. This creates a dangerous situation where the binding may either fail to release when it should (keeping you attached to the skis during a high-impact fall) or release unpredictably due to reduced structural integrity. Therefore, anyone who has used these bindings on any terrain, from steep chutes to flat glades, is potentially at risk of an unexpected fall.
While the CPSC reports no incidents at this time, the nature of the hazard means that vulnerability varies by skier experience and environment. Intermediate to advanced skiers who push their limits in variable snow conditions or high-speed descents face the highest physical risk. If a binding fails to release during a violent tumble on hard pack or through trees, the leverage placed on joints can be significant. Younger, more aggressive skiers may inadvertently subject these bindings to forces that trigger the failure mode, while older skiers might have less physiological resilience to recover from falls caused by equipment malfunction.
Additionally, consider the context of use. Alpine touring often takes place in remote areas far from ski patrol or medical help. A fall caused by binding failure in such an environment poses not just an injury risk, but a logistical one. If you are skiing with a group, a partner’s unexpected release could lead to confusion or delay in assistance. Even if you are an expert skier who trusts your equipment implicitly, the unpredictability of a broken pin means that your usual skill level cannot compensate for the mechanical defect. Everyone who owns these specific serial number ranges is part of the at-risk population until the free replacement toe unit is installed.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you panic or rush to contact customer service, it is essential to verify exactly what you own. The recall targets a very specific set of Marker Kingpin ski bindings, and identifying them correctly requires a bit of detective work in your gear closet or on your skis. We are not talking about every Marker binding ever made; the scope is narrow and precise. If you have a different model, a different year, or even a different colorway within the Kingpin line that does not match these specific criteria, your equipment is safe from this particular defect.
The primary way to identify the affected items is by looking at the physical characteristics of the binding itself. You need to check if your bindings have a black body with either gold or copper accent coloring. This visual cue is the first filter. If your bindings are a different color entirely, they are not part of this recall. However, color alone is not enough, as you must also confirm the model and width specifications. The recall specifically covers Kingpin 10 and Kingpin 13 models produced between 2017 and 2018. These bindings are designed to work with alpine touring ski boots that feature metal pintech inserts in the toe of each boot, so if your setup does not match this compatibility profile, you likely have a different product.
The most definitive way to confirm your binding is recalled is by checking the serial number. You must look at the heel unit of the binding, specifically on the back side where the serial numbers are printed. The recall applies only to toe units with heel units falling within these exact serial number ranges: Kingpin 10 models with serial numbers between 337804 and 418632, and Kingpin 13 models with serial numbers between 337798 and 411728. If your serial number falls outside these ranges, your binding is not affected.
You can also cross-reference your binding against the specific model numbers provided in the recall notice. Look for these exact codes on your equipment: 7733R1MA, 75 - 100 mm gold; 7733R1MB, 100 - 125 mm gold; 7933R1MA, 75 - 100 mm gold; 7734R1MA (Kingpin 10 Demo), 75 - 100 mm gold; 7934R1MB (Kingpin 13 Demo), 100 - 125 mm gold; 7933R1MB, 100 - 125 mm gold; 7733S1MA, 75 - 100 mm copper; 7733S1MB, 100 - 125 mm copper; 7933S1MA, 75 - 100 mm copper; 7933S1MB, 100 - 125 mm copper; 7734S1MA (Kingpin 10 Demo), 75 - 100 mm copper; or 7934S1MB (Kingpin 13 Demo), 100 - 125 mm copper. If your binding matches one of these model numbers and its serial number is within the specified range, it is definitely part of this recall.
What to do — step by step
If you own a pair of Marker Kingpin ski bindings, your immediate priority is safety, not convenience. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear: you must stop using these bindings right away. There is no gray area here. Even if the bindings look fine or have performed well on previous trips, the internal steel pins in the toe unit are prone to breaking. This defect reduces the binding's ability to release properly during a fall, which significantly increases your risk of injury. Do not take them out for a test run "just to check." The hazard is latent and unpredictable; waiting for a failure on the mountain is far too dangerous.
Once you have secured your skis and ensured no one attempts to use the recalled gear, your next step is to initiate the remedy. You need to return the bindings to an authorized Marker retailer. This is not a standard return where you might just get store credit; this is a specific safety remediation process. By taking them to an authorized dealer, you are ensuring that the replacement parts meet the manufacturer's strict safety standards. Authorized retailers have the direct line to Marker USA’s supply chain and can verify your product details against their recall database. Do not attempt to mail these back yourself or send them to a general repair shop unless explicitly instructed by Marker customer service, as improper handling could complicate the free replacement process.
When you visit the authorized retailer, bring your ski boots with you. This is a crucial detail that many skiers might overlook. The remedy involves obtaining a free replacement toe unit, but simply swapping parts isn't enough. The binding must be adjusted correctly to match your specific boot sole length and your personal skiing profile. If you bring your boots along, the technician can verify that the new toe unit will interface perfectly with your gear. This ensures that when you do get back on the slopes, the release force is calibrated accurately for your weight, skill level, and equipment. It transforms a simple part swap into a complete safety check.
If you cannot find an authorized retailer nearby or prefer to handle the logistics yourself, you can contact Marker USA directly. You can reach them by phone at 800-453-3862 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, or via email at kingpin.exchange@mdv-usa.com. They can guide you to the nearest service point or provide further instructions for your specific situation. You can also visit their website at https://www.marker.net/en-us/ and click on "More Info" in the recall section for additional resources. Remember, this remedy is free of charge. The cost of the new toe unit and the labor to install it should be covered under the recall. Your goal is to eliminate the fall hazard entirely by ensuring your equipment is replaced and adjusted by professionals who understand the specific engineering flaws involved.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your ski bindings are part of this recall, the good news is that Marker has established a straightforward and cost-free remedy to resolve the issue. The company is not asking you to simply return the entire binding assembly for a credit or refund; instead, they are offering a targeted repair solution. Specifically, authorized Marker retailers will provide you with a free replacement toe unit. This approach is designed to be both efficient for you and effective in addressing the safety concern, as the defect lies specifically within the steel pins of the toe unit rather than the entire binding mechanism. By replacing just the problematic component, you can continue using your existing high-quality bindings without having to purchase an entirely new set.
To initiate this process, you must bring your ski boots to a Marker authorized retailer along with the bindings. This step is crucial for two reasons. First, it allows the technician to verify that the serial numbers on the heel unit match the affected ranges provided in the recall notice. Second, and perhaps more importantly, it ensures that the new toe unit is adjusted correctly for your specific boots. Ski bindings are complex pieces of safety equipment that must be precisely calibrated to match your weight, height, skill level, and boot sole length. Having a professional perform this adjustment guarantees that the binding will release properly during a fall, protecting you from injury while maintaining the performance characteristics you expect from alpine touring gear.
You do not need to navigate this process alone or guess which retailer is eligible. Marker has set up dedicated support channels to help you locate service centers and get your questions answered. You can contact Marker USA directly by calling 800-453-3862 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Their staff is available to guide you through the next steps and confirm that your specific model numbers—whether they are Kingpin 10 or Kingpin 13 models with gold or copper accents—are covered under this remedy.
If you prefer to handle the logistics online, you can visit the official Marker website at https://www.marker.net/en-us/. Once there, navigate to the recall section and click on "More Info." This portal will provide you with up-to-date details on where to take your equipment and any additional documentation you might need. Remember, there is no charge for this repair. The replacement toe unit and the associated service are provided at no cost to you. Taking action now ensures that your gear is safe for the upcoming season and gives you peace of mind when you hit the slopes.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall notice lands in your inbox or appears on a retailer’s website, the immediate reaction is often one of inconvenience. You might think about the hassle of packing up your gear, driving to a shop, and waiting for parts. It is completely understandable to feel that way. However, ignoring this specific recall regarding the Marker Kingpin ski bindings is not just an administrative oversight; it is a direct compromise of your physical safety on the mountain. The core issue here is mechanical failure under load. These bindings are designed to be the critical link between you and your skis, transmitting your movements while also releasing you during a fall to prevent injury. When that link fails unexpectedly, the consequences can be severe.
The hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is that the steel pins in the toe unit of these specific 2017-2018 Kingpin models can break. This is not a minor wear-and-tear issue; it is a structural failure of a primary safety component. When these pins break, the binding’s release force is significantly reduced. In plain terms, this means the binding may not release when it should during a high-energy fall, or it may release unpredictably during normal skiing. Ski bindings are calibrated to pop off at specific force thresholds to protect your knees, ankles, and shins from twisting injuries. If the internal pins are compromised, that calibration is gone. You lose the safety net that allows you to separate from your skis safely when forces become too great.
The result of using these defective bindings is a substantially increased fall hazard. Instead of a controlled release, you face the risk of the binding staying attached when it should have released, leading to traumatic lower-leg injuries such as tibial fractures or severe knee ligament damage (like ACL tears). Conversely, if the failure causes an unpredictable release, you could drop your ski at high speed in difficult terrain, leading to collisions with rocks, trees, other skiers, or simply hard falls on uneven snow. While the CPSC notes that no incidents have been reported to date for this specific batch, the absence of reports does not mean the risk is low; it often means that users have not yet experienced a failure in conditions where the defect would matter most. The danger lies in the unpredictability and the severity of the potential outcome.
Continuing to use these bindings also puts you at risk in backcountry or remote settings. If you are skiing in areas with limited access to medical help, a fall caused by binding failure can quickly escalate from a bad day into a life-threatening emergency. The inability to trust your equipment undermines your confidence and forces you to ski more cautiously than necessary, which can ironically lead to tension-related errors. More importantly, it removes the margin of error that proper gear is supposed to provide. You are essentially skiing with a compromised safety system that has failed its most important test: reliability under stress.
The remedy offered is straightforward and free: a replacement toe unit. By ignoring the recall, you are choosing to gamble your physical well-being against a fix that costs you nothing but time. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your equipment will function exactly as engineered is invaluable on the mountain. Do not let convenience outweigh safety. Get these bindings replaced immediately to ensure that when you take that drop or hit that bump, your gear does its job and keeps you safe.