Lightweight XCD gear with scaled skis and Xplore bindings moving through low-angle terrain

The Tradeoff Between Efficiency and Downhill Performance (XCD vs XCD Crossover)

We started using the term XCD Crossover because there was a growing group of ski setups that didn’t quite fit into traditional XCD. People kept asking about wider skis, more supportive boots, and stronger bindings that held the same efficiency ethos. They weren’t trying to leave XCD behind, but they wanted more out of the descent than a classic XCD setup could offer. This category gives those setups a place to live.

Alpina alaska boot stepping into a Rottefella Xplore binding mounted on Voile Endeavor BC skis

Rottefella Xplore: The Bridge Between NNN BC and Alpine Touring

The Rottefella Xplore binding system was developed to bridge a long-standing gap in backcountry skiing equipment. For decades, skiers choosing between traditional Nordic backcountry setups and Alpine Touring gear often had to compromise between efficient touring and confident downhill performance. In this conversation, Voile’s Dave Grissom sits down with Rottefella CEO Torstein Myklebostad to discuss where the Rottefella Xplore binding …

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Alfa Free 2.0 XP First Look

We took the new Alfa Free 2.0 XP into the Wasatch in varied conditions to see how it performs on the Xplore platform. At first glance, this boot stands apart from most XP offerings. A tall plastic cuff. An AT-style walk mode. A BOA system controlling the lower shell. It’s clear this boot is built with downhill confidence in mind… …

Scarpa T4 vs Crispi Svartisen: XCD Boot Comparison

This is our extended breakdown between two downhill-capable XCD boots: The Scarpa T4 vs Crispi Svartisen. We dive deep in this video to break down the similarities, differences, and suggested binding pairings to get the most out of your setup.

Best bindings compatible with Scarpa T2 Eco telemark boot displayed

Best Bindings for the Scarpa T2: XCD Crossover

The Scarpa T2 is a more supportive boot than lighter crossover plastics. It has the stiffness and lateral support to drive most skis with confidence. That means the boot is not the limiting factor in this system, and we can approach ski and binding selection from a very practical angle.

The best bindings to pair with the Scarpa T4 boot are the Voile 3-Pin Traverse, Hardwire 3-Pin, and Switchback bindings.

Best Bindings for the Scarpa T4: XCD Crossover

The Scarpa T4 sits in a very specific place in the telemark world. Pair it with the right binding and ski, and you get an efficient, versatile system that covers ground and still delivers confident telemark turns. Pair it wrong, and the system could feel mismatched.

Hardboot Splitboarding Toe Piece Shootout

For hardboot splitboarders, the toe piece is the heart of the uphill system. The design looks simple: two pins and a locking mechanism. But the way each brand executes those details determines everything about stride efficiency, uphill stability, and long-term durability. 

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How To Secure Your Free XCD Demo

Use Promo Code “FREEXCD” To Reserve Your Demo Gear If you’ve been curious about XCD telemark gear, now’s your chance to put it to the test. For a limited time, we’re offering free XCD demos using promo code “FREEXCD” through the Voile Rental Center. Before we get into the details, here are the two big things to know up front: …

Alpina Alaska 75 vs Crispi Svartisen: XCD Boots

Welcome to the extended breakdown of our two favorite leather 3-pin XCD tele boots. In this video, we go deep… I mean really deep. Luckily, we broke it up into chapters so you can jump to the talking points that pique your interest. Otherwise, continue below for a full transcription of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Alpina Alaska 75 …