When a binding meets all-around legend Bode Merrill’s specifications, you know you’re onto something. Salomon’s latest, the Quantum, delivers from inner-city handrails to remote backcountry spines. The carbon highback is stiff and responsive, meriting an 8/10 on the flex scale. EVA baseplate padding absorbs shock from flat landings and reduces juddering from straight-lining “The Art of Flight” worthy peaks.