Ski bindings are one of the most important groups of elements, making it possible to attach the boot directly to the ski. Bindings are divided into mountain and cross-country bindings. If the former have a universal look, then the latter give the consumer a serious reason for thought. Cross-country ski bindings are divided into three main types:
- Nordic 75 - assumes the presence of a front last to secure the toe. Outdated appearance, gradually going out of use;
- SNS is a gutter type system that has one common strip for fastening. The boot bracket is fixed directly in the toe, thanks to which such fastenings can be used for both classic and skating moves.
- NNN is a “rail” type system with two lugs for fastening. Due to the fact that the toe brace of the boot is moved back when fastened, it is used mainly by adherents of skating.
In addition to the subtleties with mounting options, each set has its own rigidity, which also affects the riding style and operational features.
According to established tradition, the development of ski bindings is carried out primarily by the ski companies themselves, each of which strives to introduce as many useful innovations into their products as possible. Making an independent choice in such a situation is very difficult, especially since skiing is beginning to attract the attention of beginners. Therefore, after conducting market research, we have selected for you the 12 best ski bindings that have earned positive reviews from amateurs and recognized professionals. The rating was based on the following criteria:
- the credibility of the manufacturer in the Russian Federation;
- user opinion about the presented kits;
- abundance of performance characteristics;
- degree of structural reliability;
- compliance of the cost of fasteners with the overall quality of workmanship.
The best cross country ski bindings
4 Snowmatic
Versatility. Reliable metal system
Country Russia
Average price: 580 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.0
Quick and reliable fixation of boots with skis is ensured by an automatic mechanism and a high-quality wear-resistant spring of Snowmatic bindings. For installation on adult skis, the set is equipped with mounting bolts. The design is suitable for initial training and skiing in the classic cross-country style, and also allows you to take the first steps in skating. The model is applicable for both the female and male parts of the population, since it is presented in two sizes - M (35‒42) and L (38‒47).
According to users, the fastenings, due to the all-metal holding system, cover the shoes tightly, without backlash or gaps, but under critical loads they may not come loose. For many skiers, this seems to be a definite plus and proof of the exceptional reliability of the mechanism, but in fact, loosening the fixation when falling must occur without fail. For this reason, it is important to note that this mount is not intended for high speeds and requires compliance with safety regulations on any route.
3 ROTTEFELLA Xcelerator Pro Classic bulk
The best bindings for advanced skiers
Country: Norway
Average price: 3,500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The Xcelerator series of racing bindings has acquired a new bright representative, which incorporates a number of very significant differences from previous models. According to ardent supporters of this brand, Pro Classic bulk has become much more convenient due to the introduction of Quick Lock technology into the system. Thanks to it, the rider has the opportunity to move unhindered and securely fix the mount on the mating NIS platform. Of course, this function is slightly redundant for those who like to ride classics, but for professionals (who are the main target audience) it comes in handy.
In addition, the material used to make ROTTEFELLA Xcelerator Pro Classic bulk has slightly increased its rigidity, slightly changing the balance and increasing the accuracy of force transfer to the skis. The appearance of the kit did not disappoint either: the Norwegian company provided users with an excellent color option, meeting all the expectations placed on it.
2 FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN IFP
The best combination of price and quality
Country: Austria
Average price: 2,600 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
According to consumers, the FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN walking level mount is one of the best examples in its class. Made for the IFP platform interface, they have a good fixing effect and do not interfere with the correct transfer of force to the ski. They are used primarily for the classic style of riding - this is facilitated by both the rigidity of the fastening and recommendations for use.
An equally pleasant fact is that the FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN IFP is installed and adjusted without the use of any additional tools. The cost, taking into account the general market trend, is excellent, especially since the mounts are charged for a long service life. Overall, this is an ideal purchase for advanced and semi-professional athletes for whom it is very important to get a good feel for the skis.
1 Salomon PROLINK PRO SKATE
Simplicity and reliability of fasteners. Ultra-low weight
Country: France
Average price: 4,499 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The PROLINK line of bindings was developed by Salomon for the 2017/18 racing season. It presents 12 models, including children's, walking and sports. It is important that their installation holes coincide with other models of fasteners from this company. PRO SKATE is designed for cross-country skiing and provides maximum control of movements due to its high power transfer coefficient. Among the design features of the model are a low-profile connection between the boot sole and the fastening and composite guide ribs.
In reviews and surveys, Pro Skate equipment invariably receives positive ratings. In particular, they note their excellent stability and excellent combination of rigidity (Flex 115) with lightness (250 g/pair), which was made possible through the use of modern composite materials. Users also like the new design - a carbon lever, which is responsible for flawless opening and closing of fasteners. New sporting achievements with such bindings are guaranteed for both amateur and professional skiers.
The best bindings for alpine skis
4 MARKER Kingpin 13
Best downhill performance among PIN bindings
Country: Czech Republic
Average price: RUB 35,490.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Kingpin13 ski touring bindings are one of the few solutions for all occasions. The model can rightfully be included in the only set of equipment for skiing on pistes at resorts and taking cross-country routes beyond them. It performs best on the descents, maintaining the effectiveness of PIN mechanisms in touring mode, but remaining one of the lightest in its class: a pair of bindings without ski stops weighs less than 1.5 kg. The design is also renowned for its unrivaled durability, plus it is DIN/ISO certified and compatible with all boots with PinTech inserts.
At the same time, on Russian- and English-language forums you can find many user complaints about breakdowns in the head part of the model. When they became widespread, the manufacturer voluntarily recalled its products with serial numbers 340973 - 411727 and modified the design taking into account its own errors. The model in today's version is free of problems, and even though it took last place in its category, it was by a very small margin.
3 ATOMIC Warden MNC 13
Compatible with all standard boots
A country: Austria (produced in Romania)
Average price: RUB 15,430.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The ATOMIC Warden MNC 13 combines the power and precision needed on any piste with the progressive energy transfer essential for powder skiing. The model is equipped with the same platform as the Tracker series, with the difference that the manufacturer has certified it according to the MNC (Multi Norm Compatibel) standard. This means that Warden bindings will fit the soles of all standard DIN, Touring, GripWalk and WTR boots. Thus, they can be considered the best choice when you need one equipment for two types of skis - mountain and backcountry.
Another undoubted advantage of the design is the equipment with self-closing ski stops of the Freeski Brakes system. On the one hand, these devices prevent the athlete from being injured when falling, on the other hand, they automatically prevent catching when landing backwards. If the width of the skistops is not suitable, they can be easily changed. In general, the bindings fully justify the manufacturer’s positioning as a model for expert riding.
2 Salomon GUARDIAN MNC 16L
The most technologically advanced mounting kit
Country: France
Average price: 20,990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
One of the most advanced and expensive fastening models in the Salomon product range. Ideal for dynamic, somewhat aggressive freeride and backcountry, it provides reliable leg fixation and precise transfer of force to the edge.
The main feature of the Guardian MNC 16L model is that it is based on Multi Norm Certified (MNC) technology, which provides a high degree of mounting versatility. They are compatible with a huge range of WTR, Alrine Touring and Alpine boots. The actuation force varies in the range from 7 to 16 din, the height of the toe and the width of the platform are adjusted automatically. If it were not for the prohibitive cost, which justifies itself only with professional skiing, the Guardian MNC 16L could easily claim the title of the most popular mount.
1 Rossignol PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115
Top quality workmanship
Country: France
Average price: RUB 17,565.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Rossignol PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 can be called the standard among ski bindings of the highest level of performance. This set was built on the basis of Dual Standard technology, which assumes the ability to pair the bindings with soles of two standards - WTR and classic. The trigger force varies from 5 to 14 din - an excellent result for a professional model.
Consumers especially love the Full Action toe reinforcement technology, which provides optimal energy transfer and (together with a swivel heel) shock absorption. This fact largely determines the use of PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 for freeride, highly aggressive descents on slopes of various profiles, as well as for freestyle. The cost of fastenings can hit the wallets of ordinary consumers very hard. And not for nothing, since the new PIVOT model is intended exclusively for professional skiers.
The best ski bindings for children (mountain and cross-country)
3 Larsen Auto
Low price. Automatic release system
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Average price: 557 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.0
It is important for every skier to choose bindings that suit their level of training. So, children who are just starting to ski need a low DIN force setting so that the skis will drop quickly in the event of a sudden increase in load. The inexpensive but reliable Larsen Auto model in size M is perfect for them. It is equipped with a lever that allows you to open the clamp with your hand or the pressure of a ski pole to free your legs. In addition, the opening can be played automatically.
Reviews give the mechanism a confident “four”, positively characterizing its cost, ease of use and workmanship. The boots are secured quickly, however, the holes are a bit narrow, and sometimes you have to use force to insert and pull them out. The problem can also occur when snow accumulates under the locking button - in this case, it can be difficult to unfasten the shoes from the skis.
2 FISCHER XC JUNIOR
Highest degree of reliability
Country: Austria
Average price: 1,600 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Universal cross-country ski bindings for children, suitable for both skating and classic skiing styles. Compatible with all NNN outsoles, they help ensure stability and good track sensitivity.
Despite the fact that the FISCHER XC JUNIOR is made from a combination of plastic and carbon, young users and their parents note good durability, matching the reputation of the Fischer company. The service life of the bindings is guaranteed to last for several seasons, and their continued maintenance in working condition largely depends on the riding style of the young athlete. For all its coolness, this kit cannot be called professional: it is rarely used at serious competitions, preferring to be “uncovered” during training and free skates. There are some difficulties with fixing the boot, since it is done manually, but when fully ready, these problems simply dissipate.
1 HEAD Evo 9 AC
The best model for a sports school. New 2019
Country: Austria
Average price: 5,130 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
For many years, a leader in the design and production of sporting goods, HEAD tirelessly develops more and more successful equipment for athletes of different ages, skill levels and sports. So, in 2019, she had an offer for the younger generation of skiers with decent technique and the ability to control speed. This Head WC i.Race Team ski features a rigid titanium and graphene sandwich construction that works perfectly with the Evo 9 AC bindings. Together they represent the ideal racing equipment for children weighing over 35 kg, who have been quite successful in sports school for several seasons.
Among the advantages of this model are the indestructibility of the elements and the safety of the structure. The latter is achieved by a system developed and patented by HEAD specialists - the full diagonal of the fastening head. It provides for the release of the skier's legs when falling, but requires the correct tightening setting ranging from 2.5 to 9 DIN. In addition, the Evo 9 AC features an updated SX head design that better transfers force to the edges, providing more precise control and informative feedback.
The best bindings for hunting skis
1 Lighthouse
The most reliable and proven kit
Country Russia
Average price: 560 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
A set of simple Mayak ski bindings can be found in almost any hunting store in the country. The main feature of this model is its unexpectedly high quality due to the use of “tenacious” materials.
The foot area in the Mayak bindings is made of hard rubber that does not harden to the point of breaking at low negative temperatures. In addition, on the inside of the platform there is a softer lining that guarantees a good grip with the sole of the shoe even if the fixation is weak. Leather heel and toe straps can withstand three to four full hunting seasons. Sometimes you come across defective fasteners, when used, rivets fly off the belts. But there is little fear in this: such problems can easily be eliminated at home. Thus, “Mayak” is a good representative of bindings for hunting skis, worthy of being included in the TOP of the best.
How to choose good ski bindings
Choosing ski bindings is fraught with many difficulties, the main one of which is the multifaceted nature of this type of product. In order to choose the right set and not be disappointed with the purchase, we recommend that you pay attention to the following parameters:
1. Ski type. This is the simplest and most basic criterion for selecting fasteners. Like skis, they are divided into cross-country and mountain skis, each of which has its own structural features and options for fixing boots. Sometimes mounts for hunting models are included in a separate group.
2. When choosing ski bindings Three criteria should be taken into account:
- Fixation method. Ski bindings can be fastened manually, in semi-automatic (positioning is done manually, and latching occurs automatically) and automatic (fastening occurs with a single press) modes. The more expensive the mount, the more advanced the fixation method.
- Trigger value. A criterion showing at what force the fastenings can come undone. Please consult a consultant thoroughly on this matter, since the gradation of efforts made is a rather “blurry” thing.
- Skistop. A system that is triggered when a skier falls and the boot is released from the binding. It is a set of metal rods that lower automatically when there is no pressure from the boot. It is advisable that the width of the ski stop be slightly larger than the width of the ski.
3. When choosing cross-country ski bindings pay special attention to five aspects:
- Manufacturer. Many skiers advise taking a closer look at the products of Alpina, Artex and Salomon as some of the most advanced in the field of ski bindings. We, in turn, will add Fischer, Rossignol and a number of other companies noted in the rating to this list.
- Mounting type. This parameter was discussed at the very beginning of the article. Decide what type of fastener you need: front, channel or two-way (“rail”).
- Shoes. The vast majority of the company produces shoes for the installation of SNS and NNN systems - the most universal fastenings than N75. Give preference to just such a pair of ski boots, and you will not go wrong with your choice.
- Type of fastener. The method of securing the boot can be automatic or mechanical. If in the first case it is enough to just insert the bracket into the fastening groove until a characteristic click is heard, then in the second case you will have to tighten the fastener manually. But, contrary to guesses, mechanical fastenings are more reliable and more common among professionals than their automatic “brothers”.
- Rigidity. Depending on the level of rigidity, fasteners are divided into four types and have their own (general) markings: white – “hard”, green – semi-rigid, black – standard, red – “soft”. In general, hard fastenings are more suited to skating, while soft fastenings are more suited to classic ones. However, to be more confident about a specific model, it is better to consult with a specialist.
Skis today are produced for a variety of purposes - for beginners and experienced athletes, for running or mountains.
Accordingly, models differ in the materials from which they are made, length and width, and necessarily in the types of fastenings.
Since the choice of ski boots depends on the chosen bindings, and sometimes even special design solutions are required in the design of the skis themselves, the issue with them should be resolved first.
Retro style mounts
Considered obsolete but still in use, fastenings known as NN-75. These are the devices that parents of today's athletes are accustomed to calling hard.
They consist of a plate with pins and a clamping bracket. Boots for such fastenings must have appropriate holes in the sole.
Such mounts are very cheap, but are gradually being replaced by other designs.
It is claimed that they do not allow the use of skating (although Soviet non-professional skiers somehow managed to do this). But the fact is that this system leaves the heel unfixed.
Modern fashion - SNS and NNN
The most common types of cross-country ski bindings today are called SNS And NNN. Each of them requires a special type of shoe, and there is no compatibility between them (although it is possible within the same group of bindings).
Both of these systems are distinguished by the presence of unique guides instead of pins (in the first case - one, in the second - two), which securely fix the foot using similar grooves in the sole of the shoes.
Both types of fastening are distinguished by rigidity. It is determined by the indicators of the rubber bands into which the shoe rests when pushing. They can be distinguished by color or numerical markings. Fastenings SNS for skating they are sometimes produced with special springs instead of rubber bands.
System NNN It is distinguished by the location of the fixing spring closer to the foot (almost under the toes), which also facilitates movement with a “skate”.
Both of these types include varieties that fasten automatically and require manual operation. Experienced athletes usually choose SNS with manual fastening (they are more reliable), and beginners - NNN with automatic equipment (they are cheaper). These types of bindings fit any shoe size.
NIS technical innovation
Another type of ski binding for cross-country skiing appeared in 2005. Its symbol is NIS. The difference here is not in the principle of fixing the boot, but in the approach to the idea of installing the bindings themselves on the skis.
They can be attached without screws, very quickly, and can also be moved along the ski. There is only one problem - only skis that have the appropriate platform already installed at the factory are suitable for this.
In this case, you do not need special shoes - boots with standard soles will do.
If an athlete intends to take only the first steps on skis, it is better for him to purchase the first equipment in accordance with the recommendations of a professional consultant.
And you don’t need to strive to immediately buy all the most expensive ones - such equipment is intended for professionals, and completely different models and designs are suitable for beginners.
Video on fastenings
Published: February 5, 2016.
How to choose cross-country ski boots
When choosing boots for cross-country skiing, you need to decide how often and what style you plan to run. If you plan to go skiing only a few times a season, is it worth spending serious amounts on equipment? And vice versa, if you plan to ski quite often or even play sports, then you need to approach the choice of boots more seriously.
In both cases, you can choose decent and high-quality boots and bindings. In general, price does not play a major role when choosing boots and bindings. The most important thing is that the sports shoes you choose are comfortable to run in. But you should think about fastenings only after you have already chosen your boots. This is because they are manufactured for a specific type of mount.
Many companies produce boot models specifically designed for men and women, as well as children's models. This diversity is dictated by differences in anatomical structure. Men have much wider feet than women. In addition, women's and children's shoes make them more elegant.
Since the choice of ski boots and bindings for them are interconnected, it is worth learning a little about ski bindings.
What types of ski bindings are there?
For felt boots, ski bindings are soft, made of leather straps. For other shoes, fastenings can be semi-rigid or rigid. The mounts have been like this for a very long time. And today they are no longer used for cross-country skiing. Today no one skis in felt boots.
Today everyone skis in ski boots. But boots are also different. After all, they are made for certain fastenings. What types of them are used today?
Types of ski bindings
There are four types of ski bindings in use today:
- NN 75
Let's take a closer look at each type of fastening.
NN 75 or Nordic Norm 75, where the numbers indicate the width of the mount. This is already a little used type of mount. It is a metal body in the form of a horseshoe with three rods - protrusions. It uses a boot with a sole protruding slightly forward. It is installed on the mounting rods with the protruding part of the sole, in which there are respectively three holes.
Then the front, protruding part of the sole is clamped with a metal bracket and latched with a special latch. A boot with this type of fastening does not fit tightly enough on the ski and may wobble a little. It is not suitable for skating at all. But just twenty years ago, it was precisely these bindings and boots that everyone rode on.
But progress does not stand still. And a Norwegian company Rottefella improved her creation, and without further ado, she called it NNN, adding another letter to the old name.
NNN or New Nordic Norm. The mount is made in the form of a plate that is attached to the ski. It has two longitudinal guides that secure the boot from lateral movement. On the sole of the boot there are two longitudinal recesses for fastening guides. A transverse rod is mounted in the front part of the sole of the boot, with which it snaps onto the mount.
This way the boot is fixed in the longitudinal direction. And so that it does not dangle on this rod, its front part rests against a special elastic band - a stop. By selecting the rigidity of this elastic band, you can control the rigidity of the entire fastening. Rottefella fasteners are used by such well-known companies as Rossignol, Fischer, Alpina, karhu.
NlS or Nordic lntegrated System appeared in 2005, all in the same company Rottefella. The mount is placed on the skis without the use of screws. However, skis must be specially prepared for this. They must have the NIS platform installed. Otherwise, the fastenings are almost the same as the previous version.
This type of fastening is used by such giants of sports equipment as Rossignol, Alpina and Madshus. Accordingly, the price of such mounts is higher.
SNS or Salomon Nordic System - cross-country ski bindings developed, as the name suggests, by the French company Salomon. The boot is fixed to the ski using one longitudinal guide. The front of the boot is secured with a rubber stop.
The company produces 2 models of fastenings: Pilot And Profile. The first type of fastenings are specialized and are intended only for use during skating. Because of this, they have two guides, and spring stops are used instead of rubber stops. And the Profil model is universal and traditional for the company. Salomon fasteners are used by Adidas, Atomic, Spine, and Salomon itself.
Which cross-country ski bindings are best?
It is impossible to say unequivocally which ski bindings are better. But let’s try to figure this issue out.
The outdated NN 75 mount, although used less and less, is significantly cheaper than other types. And, despite its shortcomings, it still finds fans. In addition, it is often bought for children. Its price is relatively small, and a growing child will have to change the shoe within a year or two.
The NIS type mount is used mainly by professionals and enthusiastic athletes. This is primarily due to its price. But the benefits are not so obvious. Therefore, the most common mounts are NNN and SNS.
Ski mount NNN and SNS and their differences from each other
Both types of fasteners are similar in shape to each other. There are also few fundamental differences. The main difference is that the SNS type uses one longitudinal guide, while the NNN type has two longitudinal guides. For a skier they are approximately equivalent. Both are used by professional and amateur athletes.
How to choose ski boots by size
In order for boots to fit comfortably on your feet, they must be the correct size. To do this they need to be measured. You need to try them on wearing the socks you are supposed to wear them with.
If the skier already has some experience, then good. If not, then it’s better to play it safe when choosing socks. Or do you want your feet to get cold? And if not, then you can purchase thermal socks specifically for this case. Grandma's wool socks will also work. In extreme cases, you can wear several pairs of socks.
After the boots are put on, they are laced. If possible, you need to walk around a little here and there. If you are choosing classic shoes, then try standing on your toes, as if pushing with your foot. If you are choosing shoes for skating, then place your foot at an angle, simulating a skating move. If everything is good and your leg is comfortable, then you can buy.
How to choose ski boots depending on your running style
The choice of boots and bindings also depends on whether you plan to skate with skating or classic skating. Different styles have different requirements for boots and bindings. So, for example, for skating, boots are made higher and stiffer. For the classics, shorter and softer. All major sports equipment companies offer boots for both skate and classic.
How to choose cross-country ski boots for skating
For skating, boots are produced higher. This is done in order to fix the ankle joint. The skating style of running assumes that during the push the leg is placed at an angle and the ski is on the edge. And in order not to twist the joint and reduce the load on it, it is fixed with a high boot.
A denser sole is used here. The boot itself fits more tightly on the foot. It is made taking into account the anatomical structure of the leg. For skating, you can use boots with both types of bindings: SNS and NNN. In addition, there are combination boots. This is something between classic and skate. And to fix the ankle, they use a removable cuff.
How to choose classic ski boots
Ski boots for classic skating, whether a product from Fisher, Salomon, Alpina or another company, are slightly shorter than for skating. There is no need to fix the ankle joint here. But, nevertheless, classic boots are manufactured by leading companies, taking into account many of the requirements for skate boots.
The classic boot is slightly lighter than the skate boot. They use a softer sole. Mounts are used by both SNS and NNN. Only if preference is given to the SNS type, a small nuance should be taken into account. Boots with Profil bindings do not fit on Pilot bindings. On the contrary, it is quite suitable. But don't forget that the Pilot is designed for skating only.
How much do ski boots and bindings cost?
Modern ski boots from well-known companies are made from high-quality synthetic materials and from high-quality genuine leather and down. Therefore, they are very light and warm. Accordingly, they cost significantly more than products from less well-known companies.
The price range is very wide. This is understandable. They start from one thousand for simpler boots, to several tens of thousands for a product for professionals. Good ones can be purchased for two to four thousand rubles. Good fastenings also start from a thousand rubles and end in many thousands.
Today, most skis are sold without bindings, so you have to select them yourself. This allows you to create the optimal set for comfortable, technical and safe skiing.
How to choose bindings for cross-country skis?
Let us immediately note that bindings, skis and boots do not have to be of the same brand. The main thing is their compatibility according to the type of fastening.
So, for cross-country skis there are three types of fasteners:
- NN75, or welted. Surely everyone remembers them from school physical education lessons. This is a simple mechanism with three pins and a metal clip. The pins are aligned with the holes in the boots, and the sock presses the protrusions of the boot with a bow. This mount is universal for any size. Suitable for the classic move, but not for skating, since the fixation of the leg is rather weak and there is not enough rigidity in the stop for technical, strong pushes. Now these fasteners are rarely purchased, even despite the low price, because there are more modern and convenient options.
- SNS, with one guide. This system was developed by the French company Salomon. The fastening is based on one longitudinal projection and an elastic stop. Depending on your riding style, you need to choose the right stiffness of this rubber flexor. The index is usually indicated by numbers on the element itself. The lower the number, the softer the stop. For skating you need hard fastenings, for classics - soft ones.
- NNN, or rail. They differ from the previous ones by the presence of two parallel guides and a bracket shifted under the fingers. This gives clearer and more understandable ski control. The stops also have different rigidity and different colors. White, green, black, red - in this order the rigidity of the fastening decreases.
Fasteners are universal for all sizes except children's.
Pay attention to the years of boots and bindings, as modern options are not always the same as earlier collections.
You can choose automatic or mechanical ski bindings. The first fasten themselves as soon as the shoe is inserted into the groove. The second is done manually. Professionals choose the second option, as it secures the leg more securely.
How to choose bindings for alpine skis?
You need to select bindings for alpine skis very responsibly, accurately calculating the actuation force. Your safety on the slope will largely depend on this.
Ski bindings fit absolutely all boots because they have the same toe and heel grip. Another question is whether they will fit the skis and whether they will match your sports experience.
If the skis have a special platform, then it is better to select bindings from the same manufacturer, otherwise their screws may simply not coincide with the holes on the skis. If there is no such platform, then the restriction is lifted. However, if the platform also does not have factory holes, and you have to drill them yourself, you don’t have to limit yourself to a single brand.
Pay attention to the width of the ski at the waist so that the ski stops (a ski braking system with metal rods on the sides that are activated when the boot is released) will fit.
It is important to select the correct range of fastening loads. The accuracy of shooting the ski, that is, detaching from the boot during a fall, will depend on it. The front (falling backward and sideways) and heel (falling forward) parts of the fastening are responsible for this. If you select the wrong values, the binding may not work in the event of a fall, and the skier will most likely be injured. Or, conversely, shoot while moving during a sharp maneuver.
When calculating the load, you need to divide your weight by 10. The force range is selected as +/- 3 units from the obtained value. The greater the load and the more experience, the stricter the setting should be. The minimum indicators are suitable for beginners who often fall. It happens that the load is indicated in kilograms, then you need to choose an indicator that is 20-30 kg less than your weight. The exact values again depend on skill. A prerequisite when installing ski bindings is that the actuation force on the heel and toe must be the same.
Like cross-country ski bindings, alpine skiing options are also mechanical and automatic. But there is also a semi-automatic device, in which the fastenings are set manually, and when the boot is pressed, they close themselves.
If you are just starting to learn skiing, you may need help choosing equipment. The SportExtreme salon will tell you which bindings are best to choose and which boots and skis to pair with. We have a wide selection of running bindings and ski sets for children and adults, for beginners and masters of skiing.
NNN is a ski boot fastening system. This type of fastening is offered by Rottefella. The fastening is considered universal and will fit any boots, with the exception of boots for children and teenagers.
A distinctive feature is two parallel stops. The mount has four stiffness options and two notches. Boots with this binding are better suited for skating due to the fact that the bracket is moved back.
SNS is a profile type of fastening created by the French company Salomon. It has three stiffness options, one notch on the boot and an edge brace.
The main differences between NNN and SNS are:
- Retainers. NNN has it located under the fingers. This improves controllability. And for SNS - in front of the toe.
- Guide lugs. NNN has two parallel protrusions, and SNS has one central one.
- Control. The NNN mount has the best steering control, especially when skating, which is not the case with the SNS.
- Number of hardness options.
Types and models
By riding style
- High boots are used for skating. They secure the leg tightly to avoid injury while riding. It is important when choosing boots for skating to choose the right size to avoid injury.
- Low-top boots provide a comfortable ride with classic style. They have a soft top and sole.
- Universal or combined - suitable for both the first and second riding styles and have an average length.
By purpose
- Professional - withstand heavy loads and last a very long time.
- Hiking boots are made in such a way that they are comfortable not only for driving, but also for walking. They are made of a combination of leather and synthetics, can withstand heavy loads and do not allow moisture to pass through.
- Amateur models are distinguished by a bright design and have no fundamental requirements and are designed for walking.
- Children's clothes should be easy to put on and take off, be comfortable and keep warm. When selling children's ski boots, some manufacturers include an additional insole so that the size can be adjusted and the boots will last longer.
Brands
There are hundreds of brands that make ski boots. How not to get confused by names? And which brand should you choose for yourself?
Salomon. The same French company that produces SNS mounts. Not just a large, but a huge selection for any level of training. Constant improvement of boots means the release of a new model.
Lange. One of the best manufacturers. No wonder their slogan is No. 1 in the world market. The top models of this brand are designed by Ferrari designers.
The main feature of the Italian brand Tecnica is the cuff gate. It is designed not only for top models, but also for models of other, lower levels. Another difference is the minimal vibration from the skis, this allows the leg not to get tired during long skiing. Boots from this company keep warm well even at low temperatures.
Rossignol. Perhaps one of the first companies to pay attention to the design of women's skis. The brand is interested in the saleability of the product, so it uses various marketing tactics, for example, as skis for “femme fatales.”
Nordica. The largest manufacturer. More than 700,000 pairs of shoes are produced per year. And in the middle of the last century, the brand bought the Kastle ski factory.
Fischer produces boots of its own concept. The products of this brand are considered relatively inexpensive and very popular among young skiers.
Material
When choosing ski boots, the material from which they are made plays an important role. Leather, tarpaulin, synthetics - it all depends on personal comfort. But you need to understand that the denser and stiffer the material, the more difficult it will be to remove the boots after use. For some hard models, you need to stay warm for 20 minutes.
Another disadvantage of hard rubber is that the holes made for fastenings pull out very quickly. Although the price of such models is much lower than others. But we all remember the saying: “The miser pays twice.”
Faux leather. The most common material in the manufacture of ski boots. Good manufacturers make boots made of synthetic materials and artificial leather that do not crack in the cold and last a very long time. Such models have high-quality insulation. There are, of course, boots made of genuine leather, but there are very few of them and they are purchased only by those for whom this point is important. An undeniable advantage of synthetic and artificial materials is, of course, the preservation of shape. What can’t be said about boots made from natural materials.