Good bindings - essential part equipment for every cross-country skier. It is they that help to clearly transfer the efforts of the athlete to the ski track, set the direction of sliding, significantly affect the speed, comfort and safety of the walk.

There are 4 types on the market today, each of which has its own advantages and features, requires the purchase of special boots or even ski models. Therefore, the choice of equipment is recommended to start with the choice of mounts.

Mounts NN 75 (Nordic Norm 75 mm)

The simplest and known to many from the very early childhood the type of cross-country ski bindings is called NN 75. This is an obsolete welt system with a locking device, when the toe is rigidly attached to the ski by rods using a metal bracket. A rubber or plastic heel is installed under the heel of the boot, but the foot is not fixed in any way at the back. Such mounts do not provide sufficient transverse and longitudinal rigidity and make it almost impossible to move with a skate. Perhaps the main advantage of NN 75 mounts is low price. Among the shortcomings, one can single out the difficulty of control on the descents and poor fixation of the foot.

Ski bindings SNS (Salomon Nordic System)

Creation of convenient and modern system We owe SNS cross-country ski bindings to the French company Salomon. It involves placing the boot on one rather wide longitudinal guide. In the front part there are special rubber stops that the toe rests against when pushing. The stiffness of the rubber bands is easily adjustable, which allows you to choose the desired level of ski control.

SNS mounts are divided into 2 types depending on their purpose:

SNS profile. These are universal models for skating, combined and classic skating styles. In their manufacture, flexers (elastic bands) of different hardness are used;

SNS Pilot. Designed exclusively for skating. Structurally, such mounts are distinguished by the presence of a second axis and the use of a spring instead of a rubber flexor.

Both types of SNS mounts have many advantages. They are universal (suitable for any size of boots) and comfortable, they are distinguished by perfect handling and effectively transmit the efforts of the athlete.

Ski bindings NNN (New Nordic Norm)

NNN-type mounts were developed by the Norwegian company Rotefella. There are also special rubber stops in the front part, where the toe rests when pushed. The level of rigidity is adjusted by selecting the appropriate rubber bands in accordance with the style of riding. From SNS systems NNN bindings are characterized by the presence of two parallel longitudinal guides (instead of one for SNS), thanks to which optimal stabilization of the boot sole is achieved.

In addition, there are differences in the principle of fastening the boot. Type NNN has a bracket slightly shifted back (by 10 mm). As a result, the fasteners are almost under the fingers, and the control of the ski during skating is improved.

Depending on personal needs and style of riding, the athlete can choose the appropriate elastic band for hardness. For convenience when buying gum have different colors. For classic move black (standard) or red (soft) options are recommended, and for skating - green (soft style) or white (strong).

In general, according to the main indicators and consumer qualities, NNN type mounts are in no way inferior to SNS, they are distinguished by the same comfort, controllability and reliability.

Ski bindings NIS (Nordic Integrated System)

This is the latest cross-country ski binding developed in 2005 by Rotefella, Rossignol, Madshus and Alpina based on the NNN type. The system allows you to easily install bindings on cross-country skis without the use of screws. However, on the skis themselves, the NIS platforms must be attached at the factory.

The main advantages of NIS fasteners are ease of installation, as well as the possibility of their longitudinal shift. The NIS system is fully compatible with standards, NNN boots.

Each of the listed types of bindings requires the purchase of appropriate boots. Between themselves, bindings and boots of different systems (for example, SNS mounts and NNN boots) are not compatible.

Fixings ─ important element in ski gear. Each riding style has its own nuances, which are taken into account in the manufacture of all items of equipment. Uniforms are available in two versions: classic and skating. For skating, enhanced fixation is required. Consider in detail ski bindings for skating.

Ski binding systems are automatic and manual. For the lover of the rare ski trips exclusively for the purpose of recreation, automatic fasteners are suitable ─ for serious sports, only mechanical ones.

In addition, the systems differ in design. There are four types in total.

NN 75

Nordic Norm 75. Numerical designation ─ latitude of the product. The body is made of metal, made in the shape of a horseshoe, has 3 protrusion rods. For this type, a shoe with a forward protruding toe area of ​​the sole, on which there are 3 holes, is suitable. The shoes rest on rods and are secured with a latch.

NNN

New Nordic Standard. Fixation occurs in the longitudinal direction. The main part in contact with the ski is in the form of a plate. So that the shoes do not move across ─ clamps are provided in the form of 2 longitudinal guides. Accordingly, the sole of the boot is equipped with 2 longitudinal recesses. A transverse rod is inserted in the upper part of the sole ─ it snaps into place and secures the boot. There is a rubber stop on the nose. The rigidity of the entire structure depends on the degree of its rigidity.

NIS

Nordic Integrated System. Variety of nnn, but without screws. This installation requires separate preparation of inventory. Skis must have a nis system. In other respects, this species does not differ.

SNS

Salomon Nordic System. The Solomon system has 2 varieties:

• Pilot - professional equipment exclusively for skating, has 2 rails, equipped with spring stops;
• Profil - one longitudinal guide, rubber stop, this is a traditional, universal model.

Each type has its own pros and cons.

What are the best bindings for skating?

To decide which mounts are preferable to choose for skating, you need to figure out the purpose of the acquisition (for sports or for recreation):

1. NN 75. This is a model that has now lost its relevance - but before everyone rode it. Of the shortcomings - the leg is not stable enough, it can hang out. Of the advantages - low price. Such equipment is bought for children of primary school age (change it every year anyway, because the leg grows), for beginners and for rare trips to the ski track for the purpose of relaxation.
2. The NIS screwless fastening system is mainly used by professional athletes. Among the shortcomings is the high price, and the design and quality do not have a significant advantage over other types.
3. SNS and NNN. Both of these types are very popular. They deserve a lot of positive feedback. In general, they are similar, but they have one important difference: NNNs have 2 longitudinal ones, and SNS have one (with the exception of the “pilot” model). It is also worth mentioning the presence of screws: for the Solomon platform, you will either have to drill skis, or choose skis without a platform. With the nnn type, there is no such problem. The nnn mounts also fit the Fischer turnamic platform.

Different manufacturers produce various types of fasteners.

Brands

It's easy to get confused in the world of brands. The rating of manufacturers will help you not to get confused:

1. Atomic (Austria) is the largest manufacturer of ski equipment, uniforms on the sns platform.
2. Rottefella (Norway) - releases a series of racing bindings for cross-country sports xcelerator, characterized by increased rigidity. Releases species nis and nnn.
3. Salomon (France) is a well-known ski equipment company on sns. Produces products top quality. For professionals and thrill-seekers ─ prolink carbon sk2 "rail" mounts. A more “quiet” option is sns pilot equipe skate. Super light weight and well thought out design.
4. Fisher (Austria) is another giant in the market of sports products for skiing. Recently released a professional racing model turmanic race pro skate based on the ifp platform, which is easy to adjust and provides maximum speed.
5. Rossignol (France) - produces products for children and adults, also has a line of tourmaniks compatible with nnn and prolink.

What brand of mounts should I choose?

The choice depends on who the outfit is intended for. For children, great things are produced by Atomic, Salomon and Fisher. There are products for the smallest, and for teenagers, for super speeds and for a relaxing holiday.

how the best firms for professionals, Rottefella and Solomon have proven themselves, whose products are distinguished by attention to detail and reliability. Samples from Rottefella and Rossignol are suitable for amateurs and beginners. Fisher is distinguished by an affordable price - while the products are not inferior to competitors in quality.

Mounting installation

The product usually comes with installation instructions. First you need to carefully study it.

What will be required:

• template (measure holes);
• drill with a drill;
• measuring device;
• writing subject;
• glue;
• screwdriver.

Procedure:

1. Find the center of gravity of the ski by placing it on the back of a swing chair.
2. Mark the point of contact.
3. If you have a ready-made template, mark the places for fasteners, if not, calculate the length of the indent according to the instructions. Usually it is from 9 to 13 cm.
4. Drill holes.
5. Add some glue.
6. Connect the mount and ski surface.
7. Fasten with screws.
8. Leave to dry in the room for 24 hours.

Here is an installation with screws. The rest of the cases are much easier to use.

Before installing the fasteners, thoroughly clean the surface from dust and dirt - even if the packaging was tight!

Operation and storage

Careful handling is the key to a long service life of uniforms, therefore:

• do not throw or use for other purposes;
• upon returning from the street, wipe dry with a cloth;
• avoid getting ointments and dirt on the surface;
• for long-term storage, use covers;
• store at room temperature in a dry place, out of reach of sunlight and electric light;
• do not put anything on top;
• it is preferable to store in a vertical position;
• fasteners need to be dissolved to the maximum before being removed for a long period.

Attention! Do not leave skis on wet surfaces for a long time - including on the floor!

Here's what you need to know and remember when choosing ski bindings for skating skis. A competent approach in the selection of parts will avoid disappointments and injuries on vacation and during sports activities. Let the mountain trails bring only positive emotions!

SNS and NNN systems. Why only these two systems: everything is simple - they are the most common on this moment(everything else is a thing of the past - NN 75 mm mounts (for boots with three holes that may gather dust on your balconies) are already less practical and not so convenient, they do not fix the boot well relative to the plane of the ski).

I must say right away that both binding systems have many models that are designed for beginner skiers (amateurs) and for professionals. World-class athletes perform on both bindings, everyone chooses for themselves.

I'll start with the SNS mounting system. Developed by Salomon. Tourist (walking) options, as a rule, are automatic (with automatic fastening, you only need to insert the boot into the mount) and are suitable for a combined style of skating - classic or skate. Flexor (elastic band) of medium hardness. Their disadvantages are heavier and sometimes freeze at low temperatures.

The next step will be SNS PROFIL EQUIPE bindings (classic or skate). The only difference is in the flexors (rubbers). For skate style rides are tougher. Suitable for both amateurs and athletes of a higher level. These bindings will give you better control over the ski.

One level up are the SNS PILOT EQUIPE mounts (classic or skate). Pros: Better geometry, lighter weight, great ski control. Many professional skiers choose this model. Additionally, a WEDGE plate is installed between this binding and the ski, which raises the front of the boot by 5 millimeters, which, according to Salomon research, increases the repulsion phase and the roll on the ski. There are two types: narrow and wide, your choice.

Salomon's top model is the SNS PILOT CARBON RC (RC2) ski bindings released in 2015. Manufacturers not only reduced the weight and retained excellent control over the ski, but also integrated a wedge plate that improves stability and roll distance when pushing off. The cost is much higher than previous models, but it's worth it.

All Salomon bindings are mounted on skis with screws.

Now I will talk about the NNN system. Developed by ROTTEFELLA. Just like with SNS, amateur, pleasure (for beginner skiers) options will be mounts - automatic machines, for example: step-in, costing about 1000 rubles. Mounted on skis with screws.

The next in the NNN line are ROTTEFELLA R3 bindings, which are also installed with screws, but they were discontinued in 2015, hence we conclude that the entire NNN line (not including amateur ones) comes with a screwless installation system (bindings are installed on pre-installed on skis NIS platform using a special key). Approximately in the same price category with R3 there are two models of mounts:

Xcelerator Junior and Exercise (There are skate and classic). The first is great for athletes different levels training with a foot size of no more than 42, tk. the length of the guide platform will no longer allow - it is one-piece. The second is for amateur athletes, of an average level of training, who do not strive to achieve the highest results.

The ROTTEFELLA XCELERATOR bindings (Skate and Classic) became the top step of evolution. For athletes who are serious about sports. A light weight and practicality make them the perfection in the NNN range. In addition to the skating option, they put the XCELERATOR SKATE SPACER platform (similar to Salomon's WEDGE plate), which raises the toe of the binding, thereby improving stability and repulsion. It is also attached to the NIS platform with a key and the mounts themselves are installed on top of it.

Or you can choose the mounting option with an already built-in platform - ROTTEFELLA XCELERATOR SSR

Summarize. When choosing bindings, look at your skis, now most manufacturers are already embedding the NIS platform on skis (FISCHER, MADSHUS, ROSSIGNOL). In this case, I recommend installing the NNN system mounts, because. they are easy to remove and put on (can be used without problems in summer period roller skis). If you have skis without a plate (for example, it is not on SALOMON, ATOMIC, YOKO, JARVINEN, SKI TRAB), then Salomon bindings are perfect, or you can put amateur Rottefella step-in.

I have tried both systems over many years of training. In my opinion, the Salomon Pilot bindings have much better grip between the boot and the ski, due to two axles, and, accordingly, controllability at a height. The choice is yours. Below is a photo of skis with and without the NIS platform.

Ski bindings are one of the most important groups of elements that make it possible to attach the boot directly to the ski. Like any other piece of equipment, mounts are divided into mountain and running. If the former have a universal look, then the latter give the consumer a serious reason for reflection. Cross-country ski bindings are divided into three main types:

• Nordic 75 - suggests the presence of a front block to secure the toe. Outdated look, gradually out of service;
• SNS is a "chute" type system that has one common strip for fastening. The boot bracket is fixed directly in the toe, so that such bindings can be used in both classic and skating.
• NNN is a rail-type system with two projections for fastening. Due to the fact that the nose brace of the boot is shifted 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 style of riding and performance.

Traditionally, the development of ski bindings is carried out mainly by the ski companies themselves, each of which strives to introduce as many useful innovations into products as possible. It is very difficult to make an independent choice in such a situation, especially since skiing begins to attract the attention of newcomers indiscriminately. That's why, after doing some market research, we've selected 12 of the best ski bindings for you, acclaimed by amateurs and recognized professionals alike. The rating was based on the following criteria:

• credibility of the manufacturer in the territory of the Russian Federation;
• opinion of users about the presented kits;
• abundance of operational characteristics;
• degree of constructive reliability;
• compliance of the cost of fasteners with the overall quality of workmanship.

Best Cross Country Bindings

3 ROTTEFELLA Xcelerator Pro Classic bulk

The best bindings for advanced skiers
Country: Norway
Average price: 3,500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The Xcelerator series of racing mounts has got a new bright representative, which incorporates a number of very significant differences from previous models. According to ardent adherents of this brand, Pro Classic bulk have 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 freely and securely fix the mount on the mating NIS platform. Of course, such a function is slightly redundant for lovers of classics, but for professionals (who are the main target audience) it comes in handy.

In addition, the ROTTEFELLA Xcelerator Pro Classic bulk material has been slightly stiffer, slightly changing the balance and increasing the accuracy of the transfer of forces to the skis. The appearance of the kit did not let us down either: the Norwegian company provided users with a great 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 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

According to consumers, the FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN is one of the best in its class. Made for the interface of the IFP platform, they have a good fixing effect and do not interfere with the correct transfer of force to the ski. Mainly used for classic style riding - this is facilitated by both the rigidity of the fastening and recommendations for operation.

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, given the general trend of the market, is excellent, especially in view of the charge of the fasteners for a long service life. All in all, this is an ideal purchase for advanced and semi-professional skiers who need a good feel for their skis.

1 Salomon Prolink Carbon SK2

Country: France
Average price: 4 999 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Racing mounts skating super light class. Made of durable and weightless carbon fiber, which transfers energy very precisely to cross-country skis. The connection with the sole of the boot is low-profile, due to which a great feeling of the track is provided (as the professionals confirm). Adding to the comfort of the Salomon Prolink Carbon SK2 is the platform extension at the base of the toes, an innovation that has been tried and tested by Salomon for several years.

In general, the highest level of performance of the Prolink Carbon SK2 rail mounts is expressed in small things, such as:

• the presence of a carbon lever for ease of fixing and opening the lock;
• the presence of a slight understatement in the heel area to lengthen the take-off phase and increase the control of sliding on the edge;
• the absence of unnecessary inserts and intentionally introduced backlash to ensure efficient sliding and acceleration on descents.

Given all the above parameters, the cost of a professional kit looks very appropriate.

The best ski bindings

3 HEAD SX 10

The best price for professional mounts
Country: Austria
Average price: 5200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Regarding the universal ski bindings HEAD SX 10, consumers have a double impression. On the one hand, the low cost causes some skepticism and distrust of consumers (especially professionals), which is why the popularity of the kit suffers. On the other hand, bindings really have everything you need to perform at the most prestigious competitions.

The carbon shell of the HEAD SX 10 adds a small amount to the overall weight of the equipment, improving the balance and precision of the ski's response to the actions of the rider. There is a wear-resistant coating that increases the life of the product to at least several seasons. Also, the ergonomic indicators of the front and rear sections of the fastening have slightly increased: the redistribution of the load allows you to unload the heel and toe area in a timely manner, preventing the user's legs from getting tired during the entire training session (or competition).

2 Salomon GUARDIAN MNC 16L

The most technologically advanced set of fasteners
Country: France
Average price: 20,990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

One of the most advanced and expensive fastening models in the Salomon range. Ideal for dynamic, somewhat aggressive freeride and backcountry riding, it provides a secure foothold and precise power transfer to the edge.

The main feature of the Guardian MNC 16L model is based on Multi Norm Certified (MNC) technology, which provides a high degree of mounting versatility. They are compatible with a wide range of WTR boots, Alrine Touring and Alpine. The actuation force varies from 7 to 16 din, the height of the toe and the width of the platform are automatically adjusted. If it were not for the prohibitive cost, which justifies itself only in professional skiing, the Guardian MNC 16L could easily claim the title of the most popular binding.

1 Rossignol PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115

Top quality workmanship
Country: France
Average price: 17,565 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Rossignol PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 can be called the benchmark among ski bindings the highest level execution. This set was built on the basis of Dual Standard technology, which implies the possibility of pairing bindings with soles of two standards - WTR and classic. The actuation force varies from 5 to 14 din - an excellent result for a professional model.

Particularly loved by consumers is the Full Action forefoot reinforcement technology, which provides optimal energy transfer and (together with a pivoting heel) cushioning. This fact largely determines the use of PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 for freeride, especially aggressive descents on slopes of various profiles, as well as for freestyle. The cost of mounts can hit the wallets of ordinary consumers very hard. And not easy, because new model PIVOT is designed exclusively for professional skiers.

The best ski bindings for kids (mountain and cross country)

3 Nordway 13NNNJR

The cheapest ski bindings
The country: Russia (produced in China)
Average price: 479 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

According to the unwritten rule of consumers, Nordway is a supplier of "debut" equipment and equipment for children - that is, the one that is the right time to buy for the first sports experience. Nordway 13NNNJR was no exception to the rule - it perfect option for training process early stages of development young athlete, as well as to form a clear concept of good equipment.

The main problem with these mounts is durability: the plastic case does not contribute to the durability that is attributed to their asset. It is unlikely that this fact will be discarded, since users (in rare cases) have to change this “consumable” several times per season. However, if you treat the Nordway 13NNNJR with care and develop, in general, accurate tactics of the classic move, then the number of breakdowns can be significantly reduced ... and at the same time show outstanding results at a distance.

2 FISCHER XC JUNIOR

The highest degree of reliability
Country: Austria
Average price: 1,600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Universal bindings for cross-country skis for children, suitable for both skating and classic skiing. Supports compatibility with all NNN standard soles, contributes to stability and good track sensitivity.

Despite the fact that FISCHER XC JUNIOR is made of a combination of plastic and carbon, young users and their parents note good durability, to match the reputation Fischer. The resource of bindings is guaranteed to be enough for several seasons, and their further preservation in working condition largely depends on the riding style of a young athlete. For all its classiness, it will not be possible to call this set professional: it is rarely used in serious competitions, preferring to “uncover” it in training and free skates. There are some difficulties with fixing the boot, since it is done by hand, but when fully prepared, these problems simply dissipate.

1 Elan EL 4.5 AC

The best ski bindings for kids
Country: Slovenia
Average price: 4,200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Independent ski bindings The Elan EL 4.5 AC is a solid training kit for the professional athlete, designed in the image and likeness of full-size adult kits. It combines exceptional ergonomics and safety for a child's foot, complete with all the "chips" of bindings for aggressive conquest of the slopes.

According to user feedback, the Elan EL 4.5 AC has excellent boot retention, providing a stable (and very precise) transfer of energy from movement to the ski. This, in turn, gives the young rider the necessary psychological comfort and forms the right idea about the key characteristics of the ideal equipment. The cost (provided that the child is engaged professionally) is not too high, due to which the mounts are popular with domestic consumers.

The best bindings for hunting skis

3 "Lighthouse"

The most reliable set
Country Russia
Average price: 560 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

A set of simple ski bindings "Mayak" can be found in almost any hunting store in the country. The main feature of this model is unexpectedly high quality, due to the use of "tenacious" materials.

The platform for the foot in the "Mayak" bindings is made of hard rubber that does not harden to a state of kinks at low negative temperatures. In addition, on inside The platform has a softer overlay, which guarantees a good grip with the sole of the shoe with a weak fixation. The heel and toe straps are leather, which can withstand three or four full hunting seasons. Sometimes defective fasteners come across, when used, rivets fly off the belts. But this is not scary: such problems are easily eliminated in purely home conditions. Thus, "Mayak" is a good representative of bindings for hunting skis, worthy of getting into the TOP of the best.

2 NovaSport KM 009

Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 525 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

NovaSport KM 009 is an excellent attempt by a Russian company to disguise a product made of cheap plastic and rubber under the skin, creating from such an “explosive” mixture quite usable fasteners. Despite its generally unsightly appearance and simplicity, it is very difficult to find such a kit - they are distributed only in a network of hunting stores or at dealer outlets.

As the hunters note, it is possible to use NovaSport KM 009 only with close attention. With a constant temperature difference, the rubber structure is disturbed - it loses its strength properties, delaminates and leads to the failure of the product. Actually, the only weak point in the model is the straps, but their replacement does not cost anything. This is the key meaning of bindings for hunting skis.

1 NovaSport KM 011

Good fixing ability
Country Russia
Average price: 555 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Another model from NovaSport, KM 011, rises to the first line of the rating, offering users a more comprehensive approach to ensuring proper leg fixation on hunting ski. Actually, the main advantage of this model over the rest is a single profile for the foot - the heel and toe are not separated, but are interconnected (without losing the possibility of adjusting the size). Leather straps provide lateral and heel support, and wrap around the foot in the instep for a secure fit.

As practice shows, failures overtake NovaSport KM 011 quite rarely. Fasteners can last a couple of seasons under the most severe operating conditions, but after that they will inevitably require a complete replacement. In case of minor malfunctions, they can be easily repaired at home, since they do not contain any high-tech components.

How to choose good ski bindings

The choice of ski bindings is fraught with many difficulties, the main of which is the multidimensionality of this type of product. In order to choose the right kit and not be disappointed in 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 allocated 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 (setting is done manually, and snapping occurs automatically) and automatic (fastening occurs with a single press) modes. The more expensive the mount, the more advanced the method of fixation.
• Trip value. A criterion that shows at what force the fasteners can unfasten. Thoroughly consult with a consultant about this, since the gradation of the efforts made is a rather “blurry” thing.
• Skistop. A system that is triggered when the 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 desirable that the width of the skistop be slightly larger than the width of the ski.

3. When choosing cross-country ski bindings focus on five aspects:

• Manufacturer. Many skiers are advised to look at the products of Alpina, Artex and Salomon as one of the most advanced in the field of ski bindings. We, in turn, will add Fischer, Rossignol and a number of other companies marked in the rating to this list.
• Mount type. This parameter was mentioned at the very beginning of the article. Decide what type of retainer you need: front, trough or two-lane (“rail”).
• Shoes. The vast majority of the company produces shoes for the installation of SNS and NNN systems - the most versatile bindings than N75. Choose this pair ski boots and you won't go wrong with your choice.
• Fastener type. The method of fastening the boot can be automatic and mechanical. If in the first case it is enough just to insert the bracket into the fastening groove until a characteristic click, then in the second case, you will have to manually tighten the fasteners. But, contrary to guesswork, mechanical fasteners 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) marking: white - "hard", green - semi-rigid, black - standard, red - "soft". In general, hard mounts are more sharpened for skating, and soft mounts are more for classics. However, for greater certainty on a particular model, it is better to consult with a specialist.

Choosing ski bindings is becoming more difficult as brands struggle to retain customers. If until 2015 there was only a screwless NIS platform, which everyone drilled and installed any fasteners without any problems, then since 2016 everything has become more complicated. The IFP system has appeared with a new platform, on which it is not so easy to put screw fasteners without an adapter. Now the choice of mounts is a headache for a user uninitiated in these marketing wars.

In the article, we briefly and clearly talk about the types of ski bindings, platforms, their compatibility and which one is better to choose.

Types of ski bindings: differences between SNS, NNN and Turnamic, compatibility

More than one generation of skiers has grown up on the competition between SNS and NNN systems, everyone is already used to this - the difference between SNS and NNN is in the number of guides. In 2005, NNN switched to the NIS screwless platform and phased out screw fasteners. In 2016, the IFP system with Turnamic mounts is released - only Fischer skis and Rossignol. Salomon and Atomic release their Prolink system - an analogue of NNN, only with screws. Now let's look at this leapfrog so that everything becomes clear.

Ski bindings NN75

Outdated fastening system Nordic Norm 75. Has no advantage other than price. Rarely found on sale and even in ski rentals.

NN 75 standard fasteners

Ski bindings SNS (Salomon Nordic System)

French system brand Salomon, over time, unknown manufacturers, including Chinese ones, began to copy it. SNS mounts feature one wide rail. They are divided into Pilot (2 boot brackets) and the rest with one attachment point (without the word Pilot in the title). All fastenings of this system are placed on screws in drilled skis.

SNS boots are compatible with bindings:

• Salomon Profile and SNS Access
• Salomon Pilot(Pilot bindings only fit Pilot boots, Pilot boots fit all SNS bindings)

Ski-binding compatibility:

• SNS mounts are screwed onto any ski

SNS Pilot boot sole

Ski bindings NNN (New Nordic Norm)

System of the Norwegian brand Rottefella. NNN mounts exist on screws and screwless platforms. In 2016, the Turnamic binding system and boots with Turnamic soles (Fischer, Rossignol) were released - similar to the NNN sole, the boots are fully compatible. Salomon and Atomic did not stand aside, but released their Prolink mounts - the same NNN, but with screws.

NNN and Turnamic boots are compatible with bindings:

• Rottefella NNN, NIS, Move
• Fischer Turnamic and Rossignol Turnamic
• Salomon Prolink and Atomic Prolink

Ski Binding Compatibility:

• Rottefella NIS mounts for NIS platforms only
• Turnamic mounts for IFPs only
• Prolink mounts only on screws (any platform can be drilled, but more on that below)

Sole of NNN and Prolink boots. Turnamic is compatible but comes with no midfoot tread.

Skate and classic bindings

Mounts are divided into ridge and classic. On bindings for skate skis, the flexor (elastic band) is more rigid, and on the SNS Pilot there is a second boot fixation point. Bindings for classic skis have a softer flexor. In amateur combined mounts there is a universal flexor, which is suitable only for classic riding and walking.

In skating, the ski will dangle on the soft flexor during the sweep phase. In the classics, on the contrary, you need a softer flexor so that it does not interfere with the work of the foot and repulsion. Be sure to pay attention to when buying, for which style the mounts are intended.

Which ski bindings are better: mechanical or automatic

All manufacturers have automatic and mechanical fasteners in their line. Automatic latches themselves, and unfasten manually. Mechanical - fasten and unfasten manually.

• Automatic mounts are less reliable and designed for skiing, they are much cheaper than mechanical ones. They can be unfastened at the most inopportune moment, if snow has clogged into the mechanism before riding.
• Mechanical fasteners are reliable and durable, designed for training and competition, withstand heavy loads. They cost more, but they work like clockwork - they do not come unfastened at the wrong moment, the mechanism does not freeze.

SNS or NNN: which system is better?

Marketing and patent wars force skiers to compromise. In this war, only Salomon and Atomic did not fence themselves off - they released boots with different soles for different bindings. In the article, we wrote that it is better to choose bindings for boots, and not vice versa. It is impossible to say whether NNN or SNS is better - both are reliable and of high quality. The only thing that can stop you from buying SNS boots is that they are gradually losing popularity, there are fewer of them on sale. In addition, many people do not want to drill their new skis if they can not be drilled.

What brand of mounts should I choose?

The answer is probably predictable. If possible, choose fasteners from famous brands such as Salomon, Rottefella, Fischer, Rossignol, Atomic. They will be more expensive than Russian and Chinese counterparts, but they are made of durable, frost-resistant plastic and undergo strict quality control. Russian and Chinese counterparts have a higher defect rate, worse quality, but lower price.

What are the advantages of NIS and Turnamic over screw fixings?

The main advantage is not at all in simplifying installation, but in the ability to move the mount along the ski and adapt the ski to fit your needs. This is convenient in the classics, when you can adjust the hold of the skis by shifting. Moving forward a couple of clicks will give you a better grip, but the glide will suffer a little. Moving back - on the contrary, the glide will improve, but the hold will become worse. You can only adjust the holding and sliding by shifting the mounts.

In skating, by shifting the bindings, the stability / speed ratio is adjusted. Shifting forward increases ski stability, shifting back reduces stability, but increases rollout. The effect is not as significant as in the classics.

How to install NIS and IFP bindings on skis without a platform?

NIS and IFP platforms are sold separately and can be screwed onto any ski.

How to install SNS bindings on NIS and IFP skis?

How to use NIS mounts?

How to use IFP Turnamic mounts?

Play sports, move and travel! If you find an error or want to discuss the article - write in the comments. We are always happy to communicate. 🙂