Get on your skis! How to choose ski bindings - their types and features

The ski season begins. If you are new to this business, here's how to choose bindings for downhill and cross-country skiing. Look for their main types and features in the material.

Mounts are the connecting link between boots and skis. Here's how to choose and set up ski bindings to enjoy your sport safely and comfortably.

How to choose cross-country ski bindings

When choosing a binding, make sure it is compatible with your boots. The bindings consist of toe and heel clips.

Mandatory components of cross-country ski bindings:

• Ski brakes. When the boots are in the bindings, these teeth are aligned on both sides. During the fall, the heel is released and the teeth are lowered. Choose bindings with wide brakes that run the length of the ski.
• Anti-friction devices are special metal or Teflon pads that are located in the area of the fingers. They release the socks from the attachment if necessary.
• The lift is designed to enhance the retention of the socks in the mount. The more technologically advanced it is, the more different inclinations you can do while driving.

Types of cross-country ski bindings:

Three-pin

The three-pin type is the oldest ski carrier format. They are quite difficult to use - you need to adapt and be able to insert the bindings into the three holes on the toe of the boot before closing the clip. Otherwise, the foot will slip out while riding.

NNN and NNN-BC

Many touring skis have replaced the 3-pin NNN mounts. The clip engages the ski very quickly, and the foot can only slip out at the moment the athlete falls.

The Salomon SNS Pilot

Mechanically, the Salomon SNS Pilot mount works in much the same way as the NNN, but there are differences. The main one is that such a mount is very convenient to use. The grip point is closer to the toe, so it's easier to follow the process. So if you don't know which ski carrier is the best, choose The Salomon SNS Pilot.

How to choose bindings for alpine skiing

Most often, alpine skis include integrated bindings, which can be found in the set. This is the best option - the manufacturers take into account the peculiarities of the skis and offer you a reliable mount that will be fully compatible.

When choosing a mount, check the width of the brakes. It should match the width of the skis.

There are several types of ski bindings:

• PIVOT is suitable for professional athletes. This mount is especially good at keeping the boots at high speeds on difficult trails.
• The SPX12 mount was developed during the World Championships in collaboration with the athletes. The SPX range provides a high level of precision, performance and safety on both level trails and mountainous terrain.
• The NX12 is a versatile mount that is ideal for all skiers of all skill levels.

How to adjust the ski mount

You need to adjust the bindings before each ski season. First of all, you need to set up the release and test it before driving.

A professional will customize everything depending on your parameters and experience. When determining the range of the desired release setting, focus on 4 indicators:

• Your weight;
• the length of the boots;
• ski experience;
• age and physical fitness.

Next, you check how well the boots fit in the binding. If they are not tight enough, be sure to go to the ski shop. Don't try to tune your skis yourself - leave it to a professional. One wrong move - and skis will become dangerous for you.