Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. inked a partnership with Garmont USA to globally distribute Black Diamond’s new telemark binding interface system. Beginning in Fall 2008, Garmont will incorporate Black Diamond’s proprietary telemark binding interface into their line of telemark boots. Concurrently Black Diamond will release its new line of alpine touring and telemark boots of which the telemark boots will have the binding interface system.

Peter Metcalf, BD’s President and CEO states, “We are exceptionally pleased to partner with Garmont, a global leader in telemark boots. We have worked with John Schweitzer at Garmont USA to develop a licensing agreement which will help introduce the new integrated telemark boot/binding system to the world in Winter 2008.”

John Schweitzer, President of Garmont USA comments, “Our team believes this new boot/binding system will offer telemark skiers unequaled utility, elegance and value. It will also open the door for Black Diamond and Garmont to recast the telemark ski market. We extend our congratulation to the entire Black Diamond team.”

The new patent-pending telemark binding integrates boot and binding in a step-in, 360-degree releasable, compact and light weight system. Both Fall 2008 telemark boot lines from Black Diamond and Garmont will be reverse compatible, meaning the new boots will accommodate the new binding system as well as all existing 75mm bindings.

Metcalf comments, “This new system will grow the sport of telemark skiing as it not only addresses the issues of weight, release and step-in ease, but it also allows any skier wearing BD or Garmont boots to use any of the current bindings on the market.” Offering unparalleled skiing and touring performance, Black Diamond’s binding sets a new standard in terms of lightweight convenience. The binding features step-in ease and consistent release for those who purchase boots from Black Diamond and Garmont beginning Fall 2008.