COULOIR - December 2005

Editor's Choice, Tried & True—G3 Targa
Though there are several more active bindings on the market, the popularity of the Targa family simply underscores the importance of striking a good balance between touring freedom and downhill power. One could argue that at either end of the free heel spectrum the Targa is more compromise than balance, but when G3 adds the option of a Tour Throw to deliver more touring freedom, or a wedge underfoot for better downhill control, how can you deny their market supremacy? You can't.

Honorable Mention, Best Accessory-G3 Targa Wedge

Though it isn’t a new idea, the fact that G3 is producing a wedge certainly lends further credence to the concept. What is it? It is an add-on, angled shim fitted between the toeplate and the mounting shim that lifts the leading edge of a telemark toeplate up. In this case, the wedge provides a 5° incline to reduce the rocker launch and help preflex the boot for ready compression. In our tests we found that it didn’t create a dramatic difference (a good thing) to flex resistance, but it noticeably caused the boot to flex quicker and easier. In addition it helped us to maintain a centered stance by pushing us back a smidge—not dramatic, but enough to minimize that common tendency when tele'ing to get too far forward and "go over the handle bars."

The only problem with the wedge is that it can increase flex resistance for
touring. Like in downhill mode it isn’t dramatic, but it is noticeable.
Combined with G3’s touring throw it should be hardly noticeable. For zero
negative effect, use it while mounting your Targa to a Silvretta Telemark
Adapter and get all the benefits of easier bellows flexing, with zero
touring resistance. (Retailer Hint: This would make a superb "package"
deal.)