How to choose a cross-country ski mount. Ski bindings: SNS or NNN

17.10.2019 -

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

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

Species

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

Type of operation

According to the type of use, 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 so that the athlete has better control of the skis.

For a classic move. These, in their appearance and characteristics, 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. These shoes are characterized by a soft sole and a loose upper part.

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

Mounting type

There are only 5 types of ski boot fastenings:

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

NNN (New Nordic Norm). This is a Norwegian fastening system, represented by two guides, which are located at a certain distance from each other. The distance is determined by the shoe size. The mount also has a rubber stop, the rigidity of which is determined by the selected travel style. 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. This board easily accepts boot mounts. At the same time, boots with such fastenings are compatible with the NNN type, have all its advantages and the ability to choose the position for fastenings.

SNS (Salomon Nordic System). Fastening system developed in France. It is divided into two types: SNS Profil and SNS Pilot. The first is characterized by a guide and a rubber stop with adjustable rigidity. The second contains one guide and two brackets, one of which acts as a flexor and regulates rigidity. For classic walking, a stiffness of 85-95 is recommended, for combined shoes - 95-115, and for skating - 115-125. The second option has the additional advantage of being able to control the stiffness due to the presence of a second bracket.

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

Design and operation

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.
The shaft or cuff is the movable part of the ski shoe, which is connected to the lower, fixed part by hinges. Depending on the type of boot, it may have different rigidity, which is determined by the type of plastic.
A mechanism that allows you to change the rigidity of the boot's inclination in the front or rear directions. Switched by the athlete depending on the condition of the track and type of skiing.
Mechanism that regulates the forward tilt angle. Set by skiers depending on individual characteristics legs, as well as on performance characteristics.
Canting is a device that allows you to adjust the angle of inclination of the boot in the lateral directions, depending on anatomical features athlete's legs.
Clip – a fastener for a shoe. It serves to secure the foot in the shoe. Modern ski boots are most often equipped with 4 clasps made of plastic, metal or combined materials.
The power belt serves for additional fixation of the boot. Can have a width from 2.5 to 4 cm, and varying degrees coverage of the lower leg - full or partial.
The inner part is a boot embedded in a shell. Its functions are 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 area of application, the question of selecting shoes by size will arise. Most modern models have insulation inside, which allows you to wear them without thick woolen socks. When you go to the store to try on boots, you should take with you socks of the thickness with which you plan to use them.

Ski boots for skating must firmly fix the foot, and therefore they must be taken strictly according to 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” on the boot.

When choosing boots for a classic walk, the foot can be free, because it is constantly moving. It is very unpleasant if, when pushing off, your toes rest against the toe. Therefore, when trying on, give preference to looser shoe options. By the way, it’s easy to check how comfortable it will be for you to use your shoes - bend your leg as if pushing off. Your 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 shoes are determined by their purpose. Racing ski boots are not as insulated as walking boots. For sports, shoes should be light. If you like racing boots, you can either buy an insulating cover or buy good thermal underwear.

In summary, the ideal ski boots should be:

Light.
Comfortable.
Not getting wet.
Warm.
Allowing good control of the ski.

The closer your shoes are to perfection, the more fun you will have skiing.

If you or your family members decide to spend your vacation profitably, then skiing is the best choice. Such exercises develop not only muscles, but also joints, endurance, improve immunity and have a beneficial effect on blood vessels. In stores you can buy skis with bindings included, but people with experience advise installing them yourself, especially since you may need experience installing them in the future. You can always replace the fasteners if you prefer a different type or if they break. In this article you will learn more about the types of fasteners and how to replace them.

Types of ski bindings

Based on your skiing style and goals, you need to choose one of three types of ski bindings:

The most modern ski mounts are called system mounts. You don’t need to delve into how they work, just know that with them you don’t have to bother with buckles, elastic bands, and staples. Their installation is quite simple and does not take much time.
The second type is called “hard” or “75 millimeters”. Many people might have seen this type of binding at school if there were skis in physical education classes. The bottom line is that the boot is attached to the skis using a special bracket - a clamp. It firmly holds the toe of the boot, and the bracket itself, in turn, is the fastening. It is now believed that the rigid system is a relic of the past. Indeed, many of us will attest to this, remembering the eternally untwisted staples and the slipping of the boot.
The third type of fastening is “semi-rigid”. These are all kinds of elastic bands, ties, and flagella to which your shoe is tied. Relevant for children's skis, since a child's feet grow very quickly, and it is difficult to buy suitable boots for them. If you decide to teach your child to ride, then the rubber band system will be just right.

Once you have purchased the mounts that suit you, you can begin installation.

What tools are needed to install ski bindings?

First of all, you must have a tool called a conductor. This tool can be different and its cost has a large amplitude, however, without it it will be very difficult to find the right balance on skis. It will help you find the exact locations for drilling and installing fasteners.

You need a conductor.
A marker that can then be washed off with water.
Drills.
Electric drill.

Depending on the type of fastening, you may need 35 mm or 60 mm drills; check this point in advance in the instructions or in the store.

The process of installing bindings on skis

First, you should learn a little trick on how to find precise balance on your skis. You just need to take one of them in your hands and place it on some thin or sharp object, and then quietly move the ski until the tip and back are aligned and the ski begins to balance. Mark this location with a marker. The principle is similar to how a person tries to hold a pen on his finger, which constantly falls in one direction or the other.

Now place your skis on the floor, making a balance mark.
Attach a jig to one ski. Carefully align the balance lines on the jig and the ski.
Take a drill with an appropriate drill bit and make a hole for the fasteners, guided by the jig.
Screw the fasteners.
Repeat with the second ski.

If you still don’t have a jig, then you can use this value as a guide: the ski mounting hinge should be both at the point of balance and at the end thumb legs. This will give you an approximate location for your mounts.

More experienced runners know that sometimes the bindings can be moved a little forward, then such skis will already be called “skate”. Experiment with styles and you will find a more convenient way for yourself.

Skiing is a great way to relax in winter. Even if you are a fan of the summer heat and spending time on the beach, you are unlikely to refuse a ski run. And there is no need to talk about those who cannot imagine themselves without this sport. Skiing is becoming increasingly popular. Sporting goods stores have a wide range of accessories related to it. In this article we will look in detail at how to install ski mounts for boots.

A little about sports equipment

The choice of equipment largely depends on the riding style: mountain, flat walks or long hikes. In each of the above cases you need certain type skis If a novice athlete has minimal equipment requirements, then experienced skiers have incomparably higher requirements. When purchasing equipment, such nuances are taken into account that “dummies” have no idea about.

The most popular type of skiing is cross-country skiing. The reason is quite clear. A skier needs certain places to ski. And treadmills can also be used for riding in the forest or city park - as long as the weather is suitable. In addition to special sportswear, skis and poles, you need to purchase mounts for boots.

Classification

Bindings are an important part of the ski design. By means of fastening, force is transferred from the leg to the ski itself. Different models differ in their design, so the natural question is how to install ski mounts for boots.

Important! People of the older generation remember primitive models that could be put on shoes. There was no talk of any convenience. Modern models have a completely different task - ensuring stability and comfort when walking.

There are 3 types of fastening devices:

Nordic Norm 75mm. These fasteners are also called welt fasteners. This is a morally outdated model that is gradually losing ground. Those who like this kind of “retro” and people who are attracted by the low cost of the accessory are preventing them from completely abandoning it.
The NNN system developed by Roteffella is a more recent one. It consists of two longitudinal guides that secure the boots.
SNS is an innovative, high-level system with one longitudinal guide. This is the most convenient option. The foot has full control of the ski. Their cost is higher than NNN, but they significantly improve in convenience and practicality.

To install the fasteners, you can contact specialists. However, it's not that difficult. You can completely cope with this work yourself.

Tool set

Before attaching ski bindings to boots, prepare the following tools (in addition to the skis themselves, of course):

Fastenings.
Marking template.
Ruler and marker for marking.
Awl.
Screwdriver.
PVA glue.

Algorithm of actions:

First determine the center of gravity of the skis. Many manufacturing companies apply it right away, but experienced athletes do not trust this marking, preferring to check it themselves. Using a marker, mark this location.

Important! This precaution is not at all superfluous. If the center of gravity is correctly determined, the ride will be comfortable, the ski will not “weigh” to the sides. The procedure for finding the center of gravity is extremely simple. Place the ski on the edge of the ruler and move until you have a “scale” parallel to the floor line. The location of the center of gravity is indicated by a ruler.

The resulting line coincides with the axis of the fastening device. Place the mount on the surface of the ski and mark its desired position. If you need to fasten Nordic Norm 75, then the bracket screws will be located on the marked line.
An important point is to correctly mark the holes. Here they often use a special conductor or a paper template, which comes complete with fasteners.
The proverb “measure twice, cut once” works in this case one hundred percent. Before you start drilling, check the distance between the holes on the fasteners and between the markings. Naturally, they must match.
The most crucial moment is drilling. As a rule, the instructions indicate the depth of drilling the hole and the diameter of the drill.

Important! When drilling, the drill should be used at low speeds.

Blow out the drilled holes and fill them with glue. Sometimes glue comes with the fasteners. If there is no special glue, PVA is quite suitable. The glue fills microcracks formed during drilling, provides a waterproofing effect and improves fixation. However, some athletes claim that glue is completely unnecessary. Solve this question for yourself.

Important! Epoxy should not be used as the solvent may damage the skis.

Place the binding on the ski surface again and begin tightening the screws. At first - not very tightly, to make sure that everything is installed correctly, and then - finally.

Important! For NN 75 bindings, you will have to insert the boot and check how it is centered.

Now all that remains is to wait a little (about 10 hours) until the glue dries completely.

You bought yourself skis, bindings, boots and poles. If everything is clear with boots and poles, then many ask the question - how to properly attach the bindings to the skis?

First, let's prepare the tools. We will need:

Ruler or pencil (with their help we will determine the center of gravity of the ski);
Marker;
Screwdriver or drill;
A thin drill with a diameter of 3-4 mm (it’s better to take a C grade)
Curly screwdriver (the same cue ball for a screwdriver);
Smooth hands.

Let's start by determining the center of gravity of the ski. Place a pre-prepared ruler or pencil on a flat surface and place the ski on it. Find a place on the ski where the ski will keep its balance. This is the center of gravity, do not forget to mark it with a marker. If you suddenly move a couple of millimeters to the side, it's okay. We repeat the same procedure with the second ski.

After we have marked the center of gravity on the skis, we attach the mount to the ski so that the boot attachment mechanism is strictly on our mark. Professionals move the mount back a little for more speed when moving. We will not do this, since our goal is to have as much fun as possible, and not race against time on the Olympic track. Attached? Have you checked? Now we put marks on the ski in the mounting holes, where we will screw the screws. Check again that you have placed the marks correctly.

We have completed this task; we move on to preparing the mounting holes for the screws on the skis. We drill shallow holes according to the marks for the screws. Don’t overdo it, you don’t need to drill through the ski, the hole depth should be no more than a centimeter. If you did everything correctly, you will see some neat holes for our screws.

Let's move on to installing the fasteners. We combine the holes on the mount with the drilled holes on the ski and screw the screws into the ski. There is no need to tighten it tightly right away; leave the screws a little loose. Let's check whether the mount is attached to the ski correctly. The mount must be level, without moving to the sides. Is everything correct? Tighten the screws firmly. You can fill the screws on top with epoxy or Moment glue and let it dry. We perform the same operations with the second ski.

This concludes our instructions. As you can see, attaching bindings to skis is not so difficult. But if you doubt your abilities, the specialists of the MotoTime active recreation center will install the mounts for you. You can also buy skis and all ski accessories in the online store for much lower price than in an offline store. Hurry up, winter will end soon!

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

New Nordic Norm ski rack system

The fastening system, called NNN for short, was developed by the Norwegian company Rottefella. The front part of the mount has rubber stops against which the toe part of the boot rests at the moment of impact. The stiffness of these elements affects the control of the skis, so different rubber stops are used for different riding styles.

The NNN system differs from its SNS counterpart by having shoe guides along the bindings. NNN has two parallel protrusions, while SNS has only one. In the New Nordic Norm bindings, the boot fixation bracket is slightly shifted back under the toes, providing more precise control of the skis when using a skating technique.

Among the advantages of fastening for ski NNN highlight the following:

a wide range of boots;
availability of automatic and manual fastening types;
There are children's and teenage models;
They have a good combination of cost and quality.

Among the disadvantages of NNN systems is that automatic models can freeze when exposed to water.

Nordic Integrated System Ski Bindings

This ski binding system (abbreviated as NIS) was developed in 2005 and was immediately used by such well-known brands as Madshus, Rossignol and Alpina. This is an upgraded version of the NNN system, which has a board that is attached to the surface of the skis at the factory. This ensures easy installation of the mount and the ability to move it in the longitudinal plane. NIS bindings are compatible with boots using the NNN system.

Among the advantages of Nordic Integrated System fastenings, experts highlight:

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

Salomon Nordic System ski bindings

This fastening system, called SNS for short, was invented by the French company Salomon. The boot is fixed on a wide longitudinal guide, in the front part of which there are rubber stops. By changing their rigidity, you can change the rigidity of ski control.

SNS mounts can be divided into two subcategories:

SNS Pilot - good option for skating riding techniques;
SNS Profil is a universal option, suitable for skating, classic or combined styles.

Such well-known companies as Atomic, Salomon, Adidas and Spine work with SNS fastenings. Their advantages include:

good strength and reliability;
production of children's and teenagers' fastenings.

There are also disadvantages:

you need special shoes;
used on trails processed by snowcats;
Shoes suitable for this type of fastening are not represented in a very large assortment.

Ski bindings Nordic Norm 75 mm

The Nordic 75 fastening system was used back in Soviet times. It can use a locking thrust pad, and one of the advantages of the 75 mm ski binding 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;
best option for children (don’t mind buying a new system every year).

Among the disadvantages of the Nordic 75 fastening system are:

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

Experienced skiers usually prefer manual systems, while beginners and amateurs can opt for automatic models, as they are easier to operate. Considering the low speeds and elevation changes, as well as skiing mainly on flat trails, accidental opening or freezing of the binding is not as dangerous as during downhill skiing for professional athletes.

Screws indicating load scales must correspond to the tables supplied with the fastening system. If you have difficulty choosing, contact professionals or consultants in the store.