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Birth of an Oazo, by Plum

Did you know? Plum is the only French brand of touring ski bindings!

Before accompanying you on your outings in the mountains, 30 enthusiasts work hard to design, machine, assemble and market their bindings.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Oazo, a binding weighing just 200 grams, with side release adjustment and two climbing wedges.

1/ The idea, the specifications

This was the first step, and the engineers and sales team got together:

"Following numerous ascents and observations, we were convinced that our range was lacking an ultra-light touring binding inspired by our competition models, but with more safety and comfort on the ascent to appeal to all gabaries and all skiers. For us, this binding had to weigh no more than 200g, allow adjustment of its lateral release and have two ascent wedges... quite a challenge! ". Gaël, Plum sales representative, Thyez (74)

2/ The design

Following this meeting, the design office engineers set to work to turn the idea into reality:"We chose as a basis our R170 model, tried and tested for many years by top skiers such as Vivian Bruchez. The biggest challenge was to integrate the new features while retaining its DNA: reliability at minimum weight. After numerous drawings and 3D models, we were able to model a heel cup with 2 wedges, lateral adjustment and contained height for good skiability". Florian, Plum engineer, Thyez (74)

3/ Prototyping and testing

Once the engineers had finished their work, it was time to produce a first prototype using our machines:"I programmed our machining centers using the 3D models supplied by the engineers, then milled the first parts and sent them to the design office for test validation". Aurélien, Industrial Manager, Thyez (74) Thanks to these initial prototypes, the fastener was then put through its paces in the laboratory and in the field:"Using our test bench, we aim to validate the mechanical strength and safety of the entire fastener, before moving on to long-term testing. Once the laboratory part is over, it's time for in-house snow tests (ambassadors + Plum staff), in particular to ensure that the binding meets initial expectations". Pierre, Plum test and development engineer, Thyez (74)

4/ Machining

Once the prototypes have been validated, it's time to machine the series:"Production requires a great deal of anticipation and organization. For the Oazo, as for our other bindings, it begins 12 months before marketing, the time it takes for each of the 84 parts that make up the binding to be machined. On our machines, we machine from the mass of 7075 aeronautical aluminum. Several tools in turn remove material to give the part the programmed shape. This manufacturing method guarantees an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. My job is to set up the machines to remove the various components from the fixture and check their quality". Michel, Plum machining setter, Thyez (74)

5/ Assembly

Once all the components of the Oazo have left the production line, it's time to assemble the bindings so that they take shape:"We have a team of 6 people to assemble the Plum bindings. For the Oazo, it takes 18 steps and around twenty minutes per pair. Over time, we improve our processes to optimize assembly time, facilitate the work of our teams and thus continue to innovate while guaranteeing an affordable price for demanding hikers". Leslie, Plum assembly operator, Thyez (74)

6/ The Oazo takes off

The Oazo is now ready to make a splash both uphill and down hill!

Technical data :

- Weight: 200g per foot
- Wedges: 3 positions (0, 40, 54 mm)
- Safety: DIN lateral adjustable 4-10, DIN frontal 4, 6 and 8
- Adjustment: 25mm rail (3 sizes)
- Altitude gain per season: 75,000m with good legs
- Number of countries skied: 23 (including Haute-Savoie)
- Maximum speed: 130km/h on closed piste
- Max jump: 14m "on a misunderstanding" Prize list: 1st place Big Nak 2019

The Speck-Sports team highly recommends that you take a look at our selection of Plum bindings. Between the Oazo, the Summit, the Guide, the Pika and the Race, you're bound to find a binding to suit your ski.