Bishop Telemark: Modern Innovation in Telemark Bindings
When it comes to telemark skiing, Bishop Telemark stands out as one of the most innovative brands on the market. Known for precision engineering and durability, Bishop continues to push the boundaries of modern free-heel skiing with its BMF bindings and a unique collection of skis designed exclusively for telemark.
The Future-Proof Binding
For decades, telemark skiers have debated between the 75mm “Duckbill” boot standard and the NTN (New Telemark Norm) system. Bishop has ended that debate with the BMF series—bindings that work for either boot style with no sacrifice in performance.
- 75mm Boots: Featuring the classic “Duckbill” toe, 75mm boots are asymmetric and require a dedicated left and right binding.
- NTN Boots: Designed with a short alpine-style toe, a rear heel, and the distinctive “second heel” or Duckbutt under the arch of the foot.
With Bishop’s design, you simply swap the toe cage to switch between boot standards. The binding delivers the same power, security, and step-in convenience regardless of which boot you choose. This makes the BMF the most future-proof telemark binding available today.
Unlike other NTN bindings that attach only to the Duckbutt, the BMF connects directly to the real heel of the boot. This creates a longer lever arm, giving nearly double the mechanical advantage and far stronger power transfer from boot to ski. In plain terms: no spandex, no compromises—just pure shred power.
The BMF/R Binding – Enduro Telemark Power
The BMF/R, or “Badassery Without Bounds,” has been described as the ENDURO TELEMARK BINDING™, inspired by Bishop’s mountain biking roots. Built for skiers chasing steep descents and deep tours, the BMF/R handles big lines with ease while remaining intuitive and reliable.
Key Features
- Future Proof: Compatible with both NTN and 75mm boots—switch anytime with the Conversion Kit.
- Touring Efficiency: 60° of biomechanically optimized climbing motion with 7°/14° heel risers.
- Step-In Convenience: True “alpine style” step-in/step-out—no more fumbling in the snow.
- Real Heel Feel: Full boot clamp from toe to heel for unmatched control and natural telemark flex.
- Customizable Activity: On-the-fly spring tension adjustment plus an optional Softer Spring Kit for smoother knee drops.
- Patented Systems: Lock Wedge ski mode + Sliding Plate System (US10058763) = rock-solid downhill power.
- Weight: 2070 g per pair (as Bishop puts it: “if you’re wearing spandex, these ain’t for you”).
More details here: BMF/R Telemark Binding.
Switch Kits – One Binding, Your Entire Quiver
Another hallmark of Bishop design is versatility. The BMF HD 3.0 Switch Kit allows one pair of bindings to be used across multiple skis.
- Switch Plate: CNC-machined aluminum plate mounted with 7 ski screws (the most in the industry).
- Switch Pad: Supports the rear case and houses the climbing wires for the BMF/R touring mode.
- Quick Transfer: Attach or remove bindings with four stainless steel screws (accessed via Tour Mode on the BMF/R).
With this system, one investment in “Armageddon-proof” BMF bindings can power your entire ski quiver—leaving more money for après.
Bomber Lifetime Guarantee
Since the launch of the BMF series in 2016, Bishop has made over 200 improvements and invested more than 3,000 hours in R&D to refine every component. The result is a binding that’s tougher, easier to use, and longer lasting than anything else on the market.
That confidence led Bishop to introduce the first and only Lifetime Guarantee in the ski binding industry—telemark or alpine. Any manufacturer defects are covered forever. And if problems arise, Bishop’s team is committed to keeping you on snow.
Bindings must be purchased directly from Bishop or an authorized dealer (from the 2022/23 season onward) to qualify for the guarantee.