Good bindings are an essential piece of 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 skating almost impossible. Perhaps the main advantage of NN 75 mounts is their 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)
We owe the creation of a convenient and modern SNS cross-country ski binding system 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.
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. NNN bindings differ from SNS systems by the presence of two parallel longitudinal guides (instead of one for SNS), due 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 easy installation on cross-country skiing fastening 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.
CCM in winter triathlon. Creator of the online training program for cross-country skiing ProSki. Shares his experience in articles and blogs in in social networks, on a personal example motivates to go in for sports. Ski poles in his hands have become an integral part of his life. Egor in In contact with and Instagram.
Winter is coming. During this period, half of the runners will ski to diversify their workouts. Sneakers will be replaced by ski boots, and in their hands they will ski poles. How to choose equipment to feel like a skier? Decide on the choice of bindings and boots together with Egor Myshkov, CCM in winter triathlon, creator of the ProSki online training program for cross-country skiing.
We will start by determining which boot fastening system we will use. There are two of them: SNS and NNN. This year, they added another one, similar to NNN - TURNAMIC. Let's consider each type in detail.
SNS PROFILE. The most popular system until 2010. The fastening design has a wide protruding strip along the entire length. There is a wide groove on the sole of the boot. The mechanism for fixing the boot and fastening is simple: automatic or mechanical. The photo below shows the mechanical version. On the automatic, we need to insert the boot bracket with force into the place where the elastic is located. The rubber insert provides elastic work and responsiveness of the boot when pushing. To unfasten from such an attachment, we will need to press a finger on the button, which is located in front of the elastic band.
SNS PILOT. Now elastic work is not required for elastic work, the boot contact and fastening system has been changed: one more jumper on the boot has been added. It clings to an additional bracket located closer to the center of the mount. This system works like a spring: after pushing with the foot, the ski quickly returns to the sole of the boot. Due to this, the speed and frequency of the work of the legs increases. Fixation of the boot is carried out only in the mechanical version.
NNN. The difference between NNN and SNS is that there are two thin guides on the mount. The design of the sole of the boot has two narrow grooves, the boot is fastened with one bracket. The contact surface of the sole of such a system is larger, the ski is felt and controlled better than with SNS.
Note: Prolink. This is the same NNN system, only released as an addition to Salomon boots. Boots with the NNN system will also fit these bindings.
TURNAMIC. The sole of the boot will be similar to the sole of the SNS, while the binding will remain the same as the NNN.
Conclusion
The SNS and SNS PILOT mount was created by SALOMON. It so happened that the boots of this company, regardless of the model, were created warm. For some, this is a minus, since on their feet they feel like felt boots. Ski control feels weak. The top models do not have this problem, as they are made of carbon: it is light and durable. The outsole is thicker than the NNN due to the protruding part of the binding. The choice should, first of all, be based on personal feelings. Each manufacturer's shoe lasts are different, so you need to compare and choose the option that suits you best.
SKI BOOT CONSTRUCTION
It is easier to start mastering cross-country skiing with skating. The classic move involves the presence of holding ointments under the ski block. To choose them correctly for the weather, you need experience, otherwise the skis will slip back. Skating is ideal for beginners. The mechanics of movement is similar to skating or roller skating.
On boots for skating, there should be a rigid cuff that fixes the position of the ankle: it will become easier to control the ski. The sole should not be flexible, the rigidity of such boots is justified. When moving from foot to foot, it is necessary to maintain balance and control the movement of the ski. The cuff helps guide the ski and eliminate twists in the foot.
The price of boots will depend on the materials from which they are made. The carbon parts will add strength and lightness to the construction of the boot along with the price. Lightweight models are made for competing athletes and have a high degree rigidity. For beginners, it may just be uncomfortable to ride in such boots.
Below are the models ski boots, which I like more in terms of functionality.
Fischer Carbonlite Skate or RC7 Skate. Comfortable boot design. Optimum rigidity, at which it is comfortable to train, as well as compete in competitions. The difference between the models is that the RC7 does not have a carbon construction, which means it is heavier.
Fischer Carbonlite Skate
Boots for advanced lovers. Cuff made of lightweight and durable 3D plastic. By design, they are similar to the top models, but more comfortable for regular workouts.
Spine Carera Carbon Pro and Concept Skate Pro. I want to mention this Russian company. Their price will be 2 times cheaper than the previous ones, and they are created on the basis of our weather conditions. These are warm boots. The quality is approaching the level of world brands. There are disadvantages only in terms of the life of individual parts of the boot. If you are just starting your skiing journey, then this is a suitable budget option.
In the next part, we will talk about choosing the length of skis and poles. Cross-country skiing develops all muscle groups, and walking in the frosty air hardens your body and saturates it with oxygen.
Love skiing! Get on your skis!
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. They are suitable for a classic move, but not for a 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. Required condition when installing 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/ cross-country bindings and ski kits for children and adults, for beginners and masters of skiing.
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 the NNN ski mount are 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 well-known brands as Madshus, Rossignol and Alpina. This is an upgraded version of the NNN system that has a board fixed to 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 on mostly flat trails, accidental opening or freezing of the binding is not as dangerous as downhill skiing 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.
The most popular winter sport is cross-country skiing. But in order for outdoor activities to bring only positive emotions, you need to take care of sports equipment. The article will focus on ski bindings. NNN and SNS are the most modern systems fasteners, and the debate about which ones are better has long been going on among professional and amateur athletes.
NNN
The Norwegian company Rottofella has developed a special system for attaching boots to skis - NNN. The originality consists in the presence of two rubber flexors that connect the boot to the binding, and two longitudinal guides that do not allow the boots to move to the sides. The toe of the boot rests against these springy cuffs, and after a push they return the leg to a horizontal position.
The NIS design used in the NNN bindings allows the binding to be mounted on a platform built into the skis. This is very convenient as the binding does not need to be screwed into the ski and can be moved to adjust the position of the boot in relation to the center of gravity. Many skiers use this feature to customize their skis for different snow conditions. This system also allows the athlete to place their binding.
SNS
The French company Salomon introduced its fastening system - SNS. The difference of this design lies in the presence of a central rubber flexor with one against which the boot rests. The special sole of the shoe allows the athlete to control the ski and ride in any style.
The installation of the fastener does not provide for a special platform on skis, like the NNN binding, but original boots are required, suitable only for the SNS design. The usual SNS mount has only one brace in front of the sole of the boot, but there is also a modification of the SNS Pilot, which uses two metal axles that are fixed in two different grooves spaced 2.5 cm apart. This allows you to limit the lift of the foot into the air and thereby increase control over the skis.
System differences
In general, the differences between NNN and SNS mounts are minor and will be invisible to the average hobbyist, but there are nuances that a professional will pay attention to. For example, many people praise the SNS Pilot bindings for the double engagement of the boots on the skis, which improves maneuverability, but at the same time, in not very cold weather, the snow gets packed under the second bracket and is compressed into an ice lump that prevents the boot from being placed on the binding normally. It also happens to unhook the second bracket when pushing. But in cold weather, these mounts work great.
Many pros appreciate the NNN binding because thanks to the platform on the ski and the NIS construction under the binding, the boot rises and the leg becomes longer. This increases the force of the push by lengthening the lever. At the same time, this effect reduces the stability of the skier, which is excluded in SNS bindings. What to choose: NNN or SNS binding, it is up to the skier to decide which boots and which bindings are more convenient for him to ride. This is an individual approach, and there is no definite answer.
Mounting installation
After choosing and buying a mount, you need to install it on your skis. You need to do this in the following order:
- The center of gravity of the skis is determined. This is done as follows: the ski is placed flat on the edge of the ruler and shifted until it balances, like weights (parallel to the floor). If the mount is heavy, then you need to find the center of gravity by attaching the mount to the skis and shift until the balance line coincides with the fixing groove of the boot.
- Hole drilling locations are marked. For this purpose, there are paper templates included with the mount. If there is no template at hand, you can mark with an awl by attaching mounts to the skis, according to the center of gravity.
- Holes are drilled to a depth of 10 mm. A drill is pre-selected: for NNN - diameter 3.4 mm; for SNS - 3.6 mm. Drilling is done carefully, slightly pressing on the drill so as not to go through the ski. It is advisable to put a limiter on the drill. Then sawdust is blown out, and the holes are filled with glue for a more secure fixation.
- The structure is being assembled. For this, fasteners are applied according to the holes and screwed. After that, it is required to dry the skis for 10 hours before use.
Everything is ready, now you can go for a ride. Apparently, there is nothing difficult in choosing and installing mounts.
