Naturally, skis are one of the most important components of a skier's equipment, but not all. You will need bindings and special boots. And their diversity will confuse any beginner in skiing. And in order to choose this ski equipment, before going to the store, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with what you should pay attention to when buying.

Choice of boots

First of all, you should choose the most comfortable boots for yourself, and then look after the appropriate ski bindings. So let's start the description with ski boots.

Cross-country ski boots, like skis, are divided into three types according to the intended style of skiing and four according to the target audience.
Depending on the style of cross-country skiing, you will need boots:

• for skate style need a high boot with a rigid cuff to fix the leg. The load on the leg with this style is higher, because the presence of a cuff is mandatory - without it, the skier can injure the leg;
• a low boot with a soft sole goes for a traditional style;
• there are also universal boots, they come with or without a removable hard cuff, with a moderately hard sole.

According to the target audience, ski boots are divided into the following groups:

• boots for professionals. Such boots are subjected to the greatest load, and therefore, in their production, great attention is paid to reliability and quality. On professional cross-country ski boots, the latest technology, so you rarely see leather elements in them - there are synthetic materials that are superior to leather in many ways. Boots for professionals are expensive, but they will last quite a long time;
• boots for sports tourism. These boots also come with serious requirements. They are mainly purchased by tourists with extensive experience, as well as climbers. Sports touring boots make it comfortable for hiking, without skis, if necessary. They are most often made combined, with a replaceable cuff, the material is Genuine Leather with synthetic inserts. They must be reliable and durable, impact resistant;
• boots for wellness ski trips. There are no high requirements for such boots, so there are both expensive and cheaper ones: depending on the materials from which the boots are made;
• boots for children. Children's shoes should be comfortable, durable and warm. In addition, they should be easy to put on and easy to take off.

Cross-country ski boots mostly use laces. If you let go of the laces on the boot so that it can be put on freely, the laces should not fall out through the topmost lacing hole, i.e. be long enough. A properly laced boot, on the one hand, securely fixes the foot, and on the other hand, does not squeeze it. It happens that in the upper part of the boot there is an additional linden - it protects against snow getting into the boot and serves as an additional fixative.
In no case should you buy ski boots without trying them on, and be sure to wear socks when trying them on. It can be either specialized socks for skiing, or woolen - not thin, and not thick. The ski boot should never press. On the other hand, it will be difficult to control skis in boots that are too loose.
So, trying on a boot, you need to walk in it, stand up, tear your heel off the floor - inside the boot, the heel should fit snugly against the sole, not come off it. MirSovetov also recommends paying attention to the fact that the fold formed when lifting the heel in the area of ​​​​the instep of the foot should not put pressure on the fingers. If the shoes do not fit these criteria, it means that they do not suit you.
In addition, if skate boots are chosen, the cuff should hold the leg well, but not squeeze or interfere with its movement. In general, as for the stiffness of the boot, it is the largest for the skating style, the smallest for the classics, and the average for the combi.

The structure of ski boots is fundamentally different from the structure of cross-country ski boots. Ski boots consist of two elements - an outer boot and an inner boot.
The outer boot is responsible for the momentum transmitted by the skier during movement - the stiffer the boot, the better the skis obey.
Different companies define the stiffness of ski boots in different ways. Some firms characterize them simply: “soft”, “hard”. Others, namely Nordica and Salomon, have deduced the absolute value of stiffness - a kilogram of force per degree of deflection (meaning forward bending). For beginners, MirSovetov recommends boots with stiffness in the range of 15-60 kgf / deg. For those who have already mastered and have basic skiing skills, this bar rises to 40-80 kgf / deg. Further, when you are already quite confident on skis, you should look at ski boots with a stiffness of 60-90 kgf / deg. And the rigidity of 115 kgf / deg and more is designed for those who go in for skiing professionally, they should not be taken into consideration yet.
In general, the rigidity of the outer boot can be adjusted - but if the skier is on skis for the first time, this, of course, will not help him. The stiffness adjustment is designed for advanced skiers. Depending on the slope or effort applied, it can be slightly changed.
On the front part of the shaft there are metal or plastic fasteners-clips, equipped with length adjustment for a more precise and comfortable fixation of the leg. The number of clips can be from 1 to 4 per boot.
In addition to clips, boots can be equipped with screws designed for different purposes. For example, with a folding back, such a screw is built into a large clip; when it is twisted inside the boot, the tape fixing the leg is tightened.
In ski boots, there may also be a power belt that fixes the cuff (shaft) along its upper part.
The cuff itself can be adjusted in inclination forward and backward, which serves to more accurately fit the boot to the skier's stance. Additionally, ski boots may have another feature called canting. This option allows you to change the angle of the cuff of the boot to the left / right, adjusting it to the structure of the skeleton of the legs of a particular person.
At the back of the boot is an element responsible for improving the transfer of force to the ski.
When walking off slopes, it is convenient to top part the boot was loose. For this, there is a “walking-skating” switch, which just frees the leg enclosed in the boot from shackling.

Another existing difference in ski boots is the principle of entry. In boots with a front entry, the cuff opens at the front, which provides a better fit for the boot. Most often, this principle is used for sports and expert models; in such boots, the cuff does not have a back tilt adjustment. The mid-entry boots feature a partially fold-down back of the boot, making it easier to put on and take off. Finally, rear entry boots, most comfortable for beginners, have a fold-down heel that makes them fairly easy to put on.
The inner boot in ski boots is made of soft materials. It simultaneously removes the need to put on a sock under the boot and serves for a finer fit.
Materials for the inner boot differ in their properties. For models intended for beginners, the boot is made in such a way that it takes the exact shape of the foot within the first minutes. In expert models, this takes time - the liner is made of a tougher, more stubborn material. On the one hand, it provides better contact with the ski (as well as the rigidity of the outer boot), but on the other hand, skiers who do not have the proper level of training will be uncomfortable in such boots. They can be upgraded over time.
Choosing boots for skiing on mountain slopes is more difficult. Regarding the size, there is one elementary rule that should be followed: if the foot is wide, it is better to take half a size more, because when loaded, it will definitely become even wider. For the same reason, it is necessary to try on shoes while standing.
It is necessary to try on a thin elastic sock. It should be perfectly even and smooth, without any folds, and end above the border of the end of the cuff.
You need to understand that it is useless to focus on the manufacturer when choosing - each of them produces shoes with its own characteristics - with a wider or narrower toe or heel, with different insteps, and so on. The price for a ski boot is also not the most accurate indicator. The most expensive shoes are the expert ones, they will be very difficult for a beginner. It is extremely important to choose comfortable boots - if you try on at least a little pressure, you should not take them - on the slope this discomfort will increase many times over, which can cause a spoiled vacation (at best).
When trying on a boot, you need to fasten all the clips. You should start fastening the boot from the second clip from the toe, the one that tightens the arch of the foot, thereby fixing the heel. After that, you should listen to the sensations - do the fingers rest against the sock, can they be moved a little; the heel should not dangle or come off the insole when tilted. You need to move your foot back and forth, from side to side.
Now you can try to tighten the clips to the maximum. There is a pitfall here: do not forget that the inner boot has not yet crumpled, and then you will need to tighten the clips more strongly. And if, when trying on, they are already tightened as much as possible, then later, when it is really needed, the clips cannot be tightened.
If it seems that the boot is still small, MirSovetov recommends putting half a size larger on the second leg and again listening to the sensations of which leg is more comfortable. When trying on, you need to sit down - if it throws back, then the boot is harsh. It is better to spend 15-20 minutes in boots, stand, walk a little. Having bought boots, you should not put them away before skiing - you can walk in them at home, preparing your feet for the slopes ...
As for the companies that produce ski boots, there are a lot of them. Rossignol, Salomon, Fischer, etc. have proven themselves well.
It is useful to know that, along with typical target groups, manufacturers distinguish ski boots for carving and female models.
There is no need for carving boots for beginners, they are designed for athletes who have long and firmly stood on skis. And the differences between these models are as follows:

• on the one hand, the increased rigidity of the outer boot in the lateral direction and, conversely, the weakening of the resistance of the cuff in the forward-backward tilt;
• along with the usual “walking-skating” switch, there is a third one (“soft”, “carve”), which is responsible for the soft resistance of the boot in the fold forward or backward.
• in this model, a “platform” is almost always used, raising the skier's leg higher above the ski surface.

In women's models, manufacturers take into account the features of the female structure, as well as the center of gravity (therefore, the upper part of the boot is more tilted forward). A higher rise is provided under the arch of the foot, and at the same time, in such a lower heel, the heel is narrower.

Choice of mounts

Cross-country ski bindings come in three types:

• front (Nordic 75);
• with a "chute" (SNS system);
• with "rails" (NNN system).

The front ones are outdated mounts, now little in demand, despite the cheapness. The last two types of fasteners are the most in demand. The difference between the "gutter" and "rails" is that in the first case, the boots have one strip for fastening, and in the second - two.
Let's dwell on each of the mounts in more detail.
Front mounts, Nordic 75. As mentioned above, this type is outdated, and is almost never used.
The NNN system has two mounting protrusions, "rails". This type of binding is preferred by amateurs, because, unlike the SNS, the front bracket of the boot is moved back, which allows better control of the skis.
There are rubber stops at the front of the NNN mounts. By their color, hardness can be easily determined. Determining the stiffness is important in order to understand which bindings are best for you based on your preferred riding style. For skating greater rigidity is required, for a classic one, respectively, less. The color options for bindings indicating stiffness are as follows: white for the most rigid style, green for softer riding, black for standard rubber bands and red for softer ones. Thus, white and green are suitable for skate style, while black and red are suitable for classic style.
Rottefella specializes in such mounts, and also produces them for other companies. Thus, boots from Alfa, Artex, Alpina, and Rossignol novelties are also suitable for NNN bindings.
The SNS system differs from the above in that the boot bracket is fixed immediately in its toe. As for the color of the rubber stops, they are also different. There are three types of them, but on the "elastic bands" a figure is also squeezed out corresponding to the rigidity. There are yellow (with the number 85) - for the classics, red (115) - for the skate and universal (95) - pink-lilac. It has one protrusion for fastening the "groove".
SNS bindings and boots are manufactured by Salomon. MirSovetov draws your attention to the fact that the new models SNS mounts and boots are different from the old ones, and therefore, when buying, it is worth consulting about the compatibility of both.
The following boot companies are suitable for SNS bindings: Salomon, old models Rossignol, Adidas, Karhu, Fisher.
SNS and NNN bindings fit all shoe sizes. The exceptions are children's and youth, they produce special fasteners, which are distinguished by a large latch handle and a softer fastening mechanism.
By the way, there are two types of fasteners:

• automatic;
• mechanical.

In the first case, as soon as you insert the bracket into the groove, they will snap into place, in the second case, the fasteners are closed manually. Despite the seeming inconvenience of the second type, it is he who is characteristic of professional fasteners, since it is fixed more securely.
As for the installation of fasteners, MirSovetov recommends doing this in a specialized place (in a service or store). The danger is that you can incorrectly determine the center of gravity, accidentally drill through the ski through or make the holes for the fasteners too large.

Skiing
In alpine skiing, the safety of the skier depends largely on the bindings. Everything is done so that when moving, they securely fix the boot, preventing it from moving out, but at the same time, if there is a possibility of a fall or injury, they immediately unfasten it.
Modern bindings for ski boots are made of heavy-duty materials - titanium, steel or high-strength plastic. The main fastening elements are: fastening head, fastening heel, platform and skistop.
Attachment head. This is the front part of the binding, which is responsible for releasing the toe of the boot when the skier falls - sideways and backwards. Its most important characteristic is elasticity. This is the ability of the head to not open up during short impulse impacts, but to return the “left” boot to its original position. Vertical elasticity can be up to 20 mm, lateral - up to 45 mm. In addition, some models have the Twincam system, which allows the boot to move to the side by half the sole. If the displacement continues, the head unfastens, if not, it returns the boot to its place.
Attachment heel. Performs the same functions as the head, only frees the heel of the boot if necessary. It also has an indicator of vertical elasticity (up to 25 mm).
According to the method of fastening, they are divided into:

• fastened by hand;
• semi-automatic - they are set manually, and then snap into place when pressed with a foot;
• automatic - fasteners snap into place when pressed;

When choosing bindings in the store, it would be nice to know the actuation value - the indicator at which the bindings will unfasten. An experienced consultant or instructor will help to cope with this task.
Platform. The part of a ski binding that connects the head and heel. Its main function is to provide better contact between the mount and the ski, to mitigate micro-shocks (for example, on an uneven track) and to dampen vibration. In addition, the higher position of the boot relative to the sliding surface and the edge gives a number of advantages: it allows you not to disturb the flexibility of the ski, contributes to a more convenient distribution of the effort expended on movement, etc.
Skistop is a system responsible for braking the ski when it falls. Roughly speaking, rods of metal that drop down the sides of the ski when the boot is released from the binding. Therefore, in order for the skistop to be effective, i.e. was able to slow down the ski when it was unfastened after a fall, MirSovetov advises choosing skistops in such a way that the width is greater than the width of the ski.

It is very important to initially choose the most suitable skis, bindings and boots for them. Because any discomfort when skiing will discourage the desire for further skiing. But at the same time, it is very difficult for the first time not to make a single mistake when choosing. The final understanding of what you really need will only come with time, with experience in riding. Therefore, if possible, before buying your first equipment, try out several different skis, boots, bindings (for example, by renting or borrowing from friends). Then you will be prepared for the purchase not only theoretically.
In the next article, in order to finally prepare you, we will tell you,

Today, most skis are sold without bindings, so you have to pick them up yourself. This allows you to make the best kit for comfortable, technical and safe riding.

How to choose bindings for cross-country skis?

We note right away that bindings, skis and boots do not have to be of the same brand. The main thing is their compatibility by type of attachment.

So, for cross-country skiing, there are three types of fasteners:

• NN75, or welt. 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 toe presses the ledges of the boot with a bow. This mount is universal for any size. Suitable for classic move, but not for the skate, since the fixation of the leg is rather weak and there is not enough rigidity at the stop for technical, strong pushes. Now these fasteners are bought infrequently, even despite low price, because there are more modern and convenient options.
• SNS, with one guide. This system was developed by the French company Salomon. At the heart of the fastening is one longitudinal ledge and an elastic stop. Depending on the style of riding, you need to choose the correct 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 bindings, for classics - soft ones.
• NNN, or rail. They differ from the previous ones in the presence of two parallel guides and a bracket displaced under the fingers. This gives a clearer and more understandable ski control. The stops also have different stiffness and are different in color. White, green, black, red - in this order, the stiffness of the fastening decreases.

Fasteners are universal for all sizes, except for children.

Pay attention to the years of manufacture of boots and bindings, as modern versions do not always match older collections.

Ski bindings can be automatic or mechanical. The first fasten on their own, as soon as the boot is inserted into the groove. The second is by hand. Professionals choose the second option, as it fixes the leg more securely.

How to choose ski bindings?

It is necessary to select bindings for mountain 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 match the holes on the skis. If there is no such platform, then the restriction is removed. However, if the platform also does not have factory holes, and you have to drill them yourself, you can not be limited to a single brand.

Pay attention to the width of the ski at the waist so that the skistops (the ski braking system with metal rods on the sides that work when the boot is released) get up.

It is important to select the correct load range for the fastener. The accuracy of shooting the ski, that is, detaching from the boot during the fall, will depend on it. The front (falling back and sideways) and heel (falling forward) part of the mount are responsible for this. If you select the wrong values, the binding may not work if you fall, and the skier is more likely to be injured. Or, conversely, shoot in motion 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 value obtained. The greater the load and the more experience, the tighter the tuning should be. 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 20-30 kg less than your weight. The exact values ​​again depend on skills. Prerequisite for installation ski bindings- on the heel and toe, the actuation force should be the same.

Like cross-country ski bindings, ski options are also mechanical and automatic. But there is also a semi-automatic device, in which the bindings are set manually, and when the boot is pressed, they close themselves.

If you are just beginning to know ski disciplines You may need help choosing equipment. In the SportExtreme salon, they will tell you which bindings are better to choose, with which boots and skis to make a party. We have a wide selection of /begovye-lyzhi/krepleniya/ running bindings and ski kits for children and adults, for beginners and masters skiing.

Skiing promotes health, improves the overall tone of the body and improves mood. But this happens only if the equipment is chosen correctly. One of essential elements ski equipment are ski boots.

Like any other shoes, such boots, being uncomfortable, can bring a lot of problems, the smallest of which will be rubbed calluses. Therefore, the choice of ski shoes should be approached especially carefully so that playing sports is a pleasure, and does not turn into torture.

Kinds

Ski boots can be classified according to two criteria: by the type of operation and by the type of fastening.

Type of operation

According to the type of operation, boots are:

• For skating. These shoes are characterized by rigid ankle support and a rigid sole. The main purpose of such boots is to remove the load from the ankle and fix it. This is necessary in order for the athlete to better control the skis.

• For the classic move. With their appearance and characteristics, these are more reminiscent of ordinary sports sneakers. The classic move is more familiar to a person, and therefore the legs can be given more freedom. This shoe features a soft sole and a loose upper.

• Combined. Suitable for both techniques, but, like everything combined, they are not particularly versatile. The distinctive features of the combined boots are a soft sole and rigid ankle support. Having stopped the choice on such equipment, you should carefully examine the model you like. Some that are commercially available and claimed to be combined, in fact, are not. Instead of ankle support, they have an imitation that fixes the leg without the necessary rigidity.

Mount type

There are only 5 types of ski boot attachments:

• NN 75. This option was used back in Soviet times. On the this moment it is no longer relevant. A distinctive feature of this type of fastening is a metal bracket that fixes the boot. The advantage of shoes is its low cost. The disadvantages include the fact that such mounts are not suitable for skating, the materials do not differ high quality and it is very difficult to find the right one.

• NNN (New Nordic Norm). This is a Norwegian fastening system, represented by two guides that are located at a certain distance from each other. The distance is determined by the size of the shoes. Also, the mount has a rubber stop, the rigidity of which is determined by the chosen style of travel. The advantages of shoes include a huge range, additional stability when riding, versatility and the possibility of both automatic and mechanical fastening.

• NIS (Nordic Integrated System). This mount is an improved descendant of the previous type. It is a special board built into the ski. Boot mounts are easily inserted into this board. At the same time, boots with such a binding are compatible with the NNN type, have all its advantages and the ability to choose the position for bindings.

• SNS (Salomon Nordic System). Mounting system developed in France. It is divided into two types: SNS Profile and SNS Pilot. The first is characterized by a guide and a rubber stop with adjustable stiffness. The second contains one guide and two brackets, one of which acts as a flexor and adjusts the stiffness. For a classic walk, a stiffness of 85-95 is recommended, for combined shoes - 95-115, and for skating - 115-125. The second option has the added benefit of being able to control stiffness, thanks to the presence of a second brace.

• Turnamic is a high-tech product running on the IFP platform. There are three options: children's, racing, automatic. They are fixed by means of metal brackets, which do not affect the features of the skis. The basis of the fastening is a swivel mechanism, thanks to which it will not be difficult to unfasten the skis even with gloves or mittens. Fully compatible with the NNN system.

Device and work

Ski boots are not just shoes, but a complex device consisting of several parts and mechanisms:

• The outer boot is the visible part. In hard boots, it is made of polyester or polyester, and in soft boots, it is made of polypropylene.
• Boot or cuff - the movable part of ski shoes, which is connected to the lower, fixed part by hinges. Depending on the type of boot, it can have different stiffness, which is determined by the type of plastic.
• A mechanism that allows you to change the stiffness of the inclination of the boot in the front or rear directions. Switched by the athlete depending on the condition of the track and the type of skiing.
• The mechanism that regulates the angle of inclination forward. It is installed by skiers depending on the individual characteristics of the leg, as well as on performance characteristics.
• Canting is a device that allows you to adjust the angle of the top in lateral directions, depending on the anatomical features of the athlete's legs.
• The clip is the clasp of the boot. It serves to fix the foot in the shoe. Modern ski boots are most often equipped with 4 buckles made of plastic, metal or combined materials.
• The power belt serves for additional fixation of the boot. It can have a width of 2.5 to 4 cm, as well as a different degree of shin coverage - full or partial.
• The inner part is a boot enclosed in a shell. Its function is to provide maximum comfort to the skier's foot. It has heat-insulating, vibration damping, protective and reinforcing inserts.

How to chooseski boots

When you have decided on the type of boots, the type of fastening (the advantages and disadvantages of which were discussed above) and the scope, the question arises of selecting shoes by size. Majority modern models have insulation inside, which allows you to wear them without thick woolen socks. When you go to the shop to try on your boots, you should bring socks of the thickness you plan to use them with.

Ski boots for skating must firmly fix the foot, and therefore they must be taken strictly in size. In addition, when trying on, keep in mind that the insulation inside will wrinkle, and the shoes will become a little wider. In skating technique, it is unacceptable for the foot to “walk” along the boot.

When choosing boots for a classic move, the foot can be free, because it is constantly moving. It is very unpleasant if, when repulsed, the fingers rest against the sock. Therefore, when trying on, give preference to looser shoes. By the way, it is easy to check how comfortable it will be for you to use shoes - bend your leg, as if pushing off. Fingers should only lightly touch the toe.

When choosing a cost, keep in mind that the ratio - heat = price does not work. The thermal insulation properties of footwear are determined by its purpose. Racing ski boots are not as well insulated as walking boots. For sports, shoes should be light. If you like racing boots, then you can either buy an insulating cover or buy good thermal underwear.

In summary, the ideal ski boots should be:

• Lungs.
• Comfortable.
• Not wet.
• Warm.
• Allowing good control of the ski.

The closer your shoes are to perfect, the more fun skiing will give you.

To date, there are different types cross-country ski bindings, among which there are several main ones, which we will tell you about in this article. For example, the NNN and NIS systems are mainly used by experienced athletes, but they are also available to beginners.

Ski attachment system New Nordic Norm

The cross-country ski binding system, called NNN for short, was developed by the Norwegian company Rottefella. The front part of the binding has rubber stops against which the toe part of the boot rests at the moment of push. The rigidity of these elements affects the control of skis, so for different styles driving, different rubber stops are used.

The NNN system differs from its SNS counterpart in having shoe guides along the bindings. NNN has two parallel protrusions, while SNS has only one. On the New Nordic Norm bindings, the boot fixing bracket is slightly shifted back under the toes, providing more precise ski control when skating.

It is important to understand what types of ski bindings are and what boots are needed for them. Among the advantages of fastening for ski NNN allocate the following:

• a wide range of shoes;
• the presence of automatic and manual types of fastening;
• there are children's and teenage models;
• are a good combination of price and quality.

Among the disadvantages of NNN systems, one can highlight the fact that automatic models can freeze when water enters.

Nordic Integrated System Ski Bindings

This ski binding system (abbreviated as NIS) was developed in 2005 and immediately began to be used by such famous brands like Madshus, Rossignol and Alpina. This is an upgraded version NNN systems, having a board fixed on the surface of the skis at the factory. This ensures easy installation of the mount and the ability to shift it in the longitudinal plane. NIS bindings are compatible with NNN boots.

Among the advantages of the Nordic Integrated System mounts, experts distinguish:

• ease of installation;
• the ability to move the mount;
• compatible with the NNN standard.

Ski Bindings Salomon Nordic System

This fastening system, which is abbreviated as SNS, was invented by the French company Salomon. The boot is fixed on a longitudinal wide guide, in front of which there are rubber stops. By changing their stiffness, you can change the stiffness of the ski control. Therefore, those who are looking for good mounts for skating should take a closer look at this option.

SNS mounts can be divided into two subcategories:

• SNS Pilot- a good option for skating riding technique;
• SNS Profil is a versatile option suitable for skating, classic or combined styles.

These types of ski boot bindings are considered very reliable. Well-known companies such as Atomic, Salomon, Adidas and Spine work with SNS bindings. Their advantages include:

• good strength and reliability;
• production of children's and teenage mounts.

These types of mounts for cross-country skis have their drawbacks:

• need special shoes;
• are used on the tracks processed by snowcats;
• shoes suitable for this type of fastening are not represented by a very large assortment.

Ski bindings Nordic Norm 75 mm

Considering the types of ski bindings, it is impossible not to talk about the Nordic 75 mounting system, which was used back in Soviet times. It can use a fixing thrust pad, and one of the advantages of the 75 mm ski mount type is the low center of gravity of the skier.

Modern Nordic 75 systems are made of plastic, various alloys and composite materials. Among the advantages are:

• low cost;
• the best option for children (it’s not a pity to buy a new system every year).

If you're looking for the best ski bindings, look out for the disadvantages of the Nordic 75 binding system:

• there are many cheap low quality models on the market;
• difficult to operate;
• boots suitable for this mount are becoming less and less;
• inconvenient separation of the left and right fasteners.

Now you know what ski bindings are. Experienced skiers usually prefer manual systems, while beginners and amateurs can opt for automatic models, as they are easier to operate. Given the low speeds and elevation changes, as well as riding mostly on flat trails, accidental opening or freezing of the mount is not as dangerous as when downhill for professional athletes.

Screws with the designation of load scales must comply with the tables that are attached to the fastening system. If you have any difficulties in choosing, contact professionals or consultants in the store who will always tell you what ski bindings are.

Find out what types ski bindings exist!

What are ski bindings for?

Ski bindings perform two main tasks:

• Transfer efforts to skis to control them;
• Should be unfastened if there is a risk of injury.

The stiffer the boot is fixed, the more accurate the skiing while skiing. At first glance, the boots are already tightly fastened to the skis, but this is only at first. The boots are in constant motion relative to the bindings. With light shocks, vibration or twisting of the legs, the bindings allow the boots to move from their original position, thereby absorbing loads. The boot then returns to its normal position.

If there is a threat of injury to the legs, for example when falling, the bindings must be unfastened in time. For them to work in right moment, it is necessary to correctly set the DIN force on the front and back of the mounts. The higher the DIN value, the more force is required to release the fasteners.

You can’t set a deliberately low DIN value - the ski can come unfastened at the most inopportune moment, for example, when you write out a beautiful arc in front of a bewitched audience (remember, skiing Is this a sport called "look at me"?). Not only will you hit your face in the snow in public, but you will also get injured. The DIN value must be adjusted. And it’s better to check it with a reliable ski specialist or a ski shop.

An approximate DIN value can be obtained from dincalculator.com.

Speaking of me, I have different DIN values ​​on piste and freeride skis. For the track they are higher.

Now we swim closer to the main types of ski bindings!

Ski Bindings - Classic

There is no such concept classic mounts”, this I came up with to separate this category. In the West, this species lives under the name Alpine Ski Bindings.

This is the most massive segment of ski bindings, everyone rides in them: athletes, trail lovers, freeriders, park dwellers and many others. To please every group of riders, manufacturers release a huge number of modifications, but this is a topic for a future dive.

Boots in "classic" bindings are clamped tightly and permanently.

All ski boots are suitable for such bindings, except for some niche ones, read about them below.

The price range in the category is colossal, from 2,000 to 30,000+ rubles. - everyone will choose according to his pocket and the level of skiing. Expensive mounts, as a rule, are sports, and cheap ones, of course, are entry-level.

The main disadvantage of conventional ski bindings is that they are unsuitable for skiing, for this they choose bindings for a ski tour.

Ski bindings for a ski tour - frame

They are called framed because the front and rear parts are connected by an element, a frame. Frame happens various designs- for example, tubes various shapes in section.

These are the Salomon Guardian mounts. How they are arranged and function is described in the video:

In fact, these are “classic” bindings, but with the ability to raise the heel of the boot above the ski. For what? To start moving uphill! Now only the toe of the boot is fixed, as on cross-country skis, and the heel can move in a vertical axis.

Shall we smile? Here's an example of guys trying to crawl up a mountain on regular mounts:

As soon as the slope of the mountain grew a little, the poor fellows began to have very serious problems with walking.

Normal ski boots are still suitable for these bindings, but a ski/walk mode is very welcome. Without it, the point of installing bindings for a ski tour is completely lost.

Each manufacturer has its own walking/skating mechanism, but the shift lever is always located on the back of the boot. After switching, the upper part begins to move relative to the lower one.

Frame bindings are mainly used by freeriders, because they have to go far (beyond the ski slopes) in search of deep and untouched snow.

Cons of frame mounts for a ski tour:

• heavier and more expensive than classic ones;
• the boot is high above the skis, it takes more effort to control.

The issue with weight (but not with the price) is successfully solved by mechanisms of the following category: bindings for ski tours of the TLT system.

Ski bindings for a ski tour - pin

For the first time, such mounts appeared thanks to the Dynafit company, which is why they are also called Dynafit mounts. A few years ago, the patent expired, and their invention began to be used by competitors. Other names: TLT (trademark Dynafit) and tech (tech).

Pin bindings are the next step in the evolution of ski touring equipment, a completely different method of connecting ski and boot. The reasons for the appearance of this variety is the desire to reduce the weight of the bindings and bring the sole of the boot closer to the surface of the ski, without compromising the comfort of walking. And the manufacturers succeeded. Fee for stepping away from the ski mainstream - special, or adapted, ski boots (regular ones do not fit) and high cost.

Boots with bindings are connected by means of four pins (pins) - two in front, two in the back.

Fans of such bindings can no longer be called ordinary skiers. They have been on skis for a long time and, as a rule, are more happy to move up than to go down. Or maybe 50 to 50. I just wanted to say that many do not understand them. They are willing to spend a lot of money to reduce the weight of the ski-binding-boot set, just to get further, higher, faster.

The disadvantages of pin mounts, in addition to the price and special boots, include difficulties during fastening the boots. On the first bindings, it was necessary to combine small holes on the boots and pins with jewelry. Over time, it became easier to get into the mounts - guides appeared. But at the beginning of use, patience and skill will still be required. Especially when riding off-piste, when the operation takes place in deep snow, where there is no hard and flat surface.

The cardinal difference between pin bindings and classic and frame bindings lies in the mechanism for unfastening boots in case of dangerous overloads. For all pins (except Diamir Vipec 12), the heel (back) is activated, and the toe is then passively released. This toe release force is not adjustable, but only has the ability to turn off on the instep (to prevent accidental activation on the instep). Unfortunately, most downhill skiers do not switch to skiing, but ride in the uphill position, i.e. with disabled operation. This is due to the fact that too much effort occurs on the descent leading to operation (TLT was developed even when there were no wide skis).

And after a wild après-ski the day before without calming the nerves and stabilizing movements of 150 grams, getting into the bindings can generally become an impossible mission. You have to ask for help from those around you. So if you decide to buy pin bindings, get ready for a sober life in the mountains.

Ski Bindings for Telemark

Telemark ski bindings are rare, as are telemarkers themselves. At least in our area. In Norway, the birthplace of this style of skiing, there may be more of them.

It happens that weeks pass in the mountains, and they never appear on the horizon. But if you suddenly see a person who moves in some angular way along the slope, know: here he is. This style of squatting is unmistakable!

The video shows how simple the telemark mounts are in design. This is also an advantage - they are incredibly reliable. Such mounts are called 75 mm.

If in ski-touring bindings the heel must be free - in order to move up on skis, then in telemark it is also necessary for descent.

For such bindings, special boots are needed. Obvious visual differences from other boots are the "accordion" in the instep area and the long protruding "tongue" of the sole in the toe - the metatarsus (see photo below).

Telemark ski boots with bellows

Telemark ski boots with metatarsals

By the way, progress in telemarking also does not stand still - the mounts are being improved. The picture with the boot (where the "accordion" is mentioned) shows a fundamentally new attachment mechanism - without the back. These are NTN mounts - New Telemark Norm, "the new telemark norm".

Compare:

The element highlighted in the picture captures the front of the sole, leaving the heel free. Such bindings require special boots:

Look: the metatarsus is completely different, but the “accordion” is still the same.

You can learn more about this amazing riding style and equipment for it on the telemarker website telemark.ru.

Conclusion

That, perhaps, is all. It was a short but informative trip to one of the corners of the vast ski ocean. The bottom landscape is constantly changing, and we are sure that in 10 years we will not recognize it. And this means that the site will always find a job for our research apparatus - to shed light on the unknown depths of the underwater skiing world.

As always, please supplement the material with comments, because it is your Feedback gives us an idea where to go next time.

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