First of all, it should be noted that before choosing ski bindings, you should choose the most comfortable boots. In this article we
Let's pay attention to these ski accessories. There are three types of cross-country ski bindings:

1) With "rails" (NNN system);
2) With "chute" (SNS system);
3) Front (Nordic 75).

The front ones are outdated and are in very little demand, despite their cheap cost. The first two types of attachments are
the most sought after. The difference between "rails" and "gutter" is that in the first case, the boot is equipped with two strips for fastening, and
in the second - one. Here it is also worth considering what kind of skis you have, if you have fischer skis, then the first option is definitely more suitable for you. Let's consider them in more detail.

The front (Nordic 75), as mentioned above, is an obsolete type and is practically not used.

The NNN system has two mounting protrusions (“rails”). This type is most suitable for adherents
skating, since the front bracket of the boot is moved back (unlike the SNS), which gives you better control of the skis.

The front of the NNN is equipped with rubber stops. Their color corresponds to hardness. Determining the appropriate stiffness is necessary for
in order to understand which ski bindings are most suitable for your riding style. When skating, greater rigidity is required,
and with the classic - less rigidity. Fastener colors characterizing stiffness can be as follows:

1) White - the most rigid style;

2) Green - softer;
3) Red - standard "rubber";
4) Red is the softest.

Rottefella specializes in the production of this type of ski bindings, which also supplies them to other companies. Therefore, fastenings
type NNN are suitable for boots manufactured by Rossignol, Alpina, Artex and Alfa.

The SNS technology differs from the one described above in that the brace is fixed immediately at the toe of the boot. The color of the rubber stops also vary.
There are three types of color and, moreover, a number corresponding to a given hardness is squeezed out on the rubber:

1) Yellow (number 85) - for the classics;
2) Red (number 115) - for the skate;
3) Pink-lilac (number 95) - universal.

Ski SNS and boots for them are manufactured by Salomon. It should be noted that the latest SNS and related
boots are different from older models and, accordingly, it is best to consult the seller for compatibility. To the latest SNS
The following boots from the following manufacturers are quite suitable for bindings: Fisher, Karhu, Adidas, models of old Rossignol and Salomon boots.

The NNN and SNS ski binding systems fit any shoe size. An exception can only be youthful and children's sizes, for which they are created
special fasteners with softer fastener mechanisms and a large latch handle.

There are two types of fasteners:

1) Mechanical;
2) Automatically.

In the first case, they are closed manually, in the second case, by inserting the groove into the bracket, it will snap into place by itself. Despite all the conveniences of the second
type, professional fasteners use exclusively mechanical fasteners.

Binding systems transmit power, determine the direction of the skis in any style of travel. Therefore, high-quality fastening is as important as good equipment and sports equipment. Therefore, before buying, it is recommended to study the NNN and SNS ski bindings, the differences of which can ensure safety and reduce the risk of injury.

Important! The choice depends more on the preferences and needs of the person. You can finally decide for yourself which option is better only after several years of training, based on different indicators, individual anatomical features.

What is and how NNN differs from SNS

Types and models

Both systems exist in the form of various models, both for beginners and for professional athletes. Therefore, when choosing, it is recommended to rely on specific indicators. Models differ in platform height, rigidity of flexors. NNN has 4 levels of rigidity, SNS - 3 levels.

SNS can be divided into Profil and Pilot models. The Profil system is designed for all types of travel, including mixed travel. They are marked with the appropriate marks - "Classic", "Combi" and "Skate". They differ in the level of rigidity of flexors.

The Pilot binding is designed for skating. The structure of the device is the main difference. It has a double mounting axis, and instead of the usual rubber flexor, a spring is attached. It is acceptable to use Pilot boots with Profil bindings, but Profil boots cannot be used with Pilot bindings.

If we compare SNS PROFIL EQUIPE and SNS PILOT EQUIPE, then the second model has better geometry and mechanics, it is lighter, provides more precise ski control. Also on this model, repulsion is more powerful, rolling is better.

The SNS PILOT CARBON RC and RC2 systems have been upgraded to reduce weight and improve steering control as well as stability.

Tourist subtypes of the system usually fasten automatically. They are used for different styles of riding, as they are universal. Such models have a flexor of medium rigidity. The main disadvantages are that the system is heavy and freezes at very low temperatures.

NNN is divided into models suitable for different styles of running, including mixed ones. They also differ in different rigidity of flexors. At the same time, an additional flexor was installed in the high-level R3 Skate and R4 Skate, specialized in skating. But it can be removed, adjusted, as a result of such changes, the fastener becomes universal. HHH also has self-closing touring models.

The Xcelerator Junior, which comes in classic skating styles, is suitable for athletes and beginners alike. Exercise is a simple model used by basic to intermediate skiers.

The XCELERATOR is a state of the art device, also available in Skate and Classic versions, used by professionals. The model is lightweight and comfortable. There are also modifications for the skating version - a specialized XCELERATOR SKATE SPACER platform is installed, which raises the toe. Thus stability and repulsion are increased.

Important! The New Nordic Norm boots fit almost all NNN systems except the backcountry model.

By riding style

As mentioned above, the style of riding does not depend on the type of fastener, but on the specific model. Moreover, many of them are universal, therefore they are used for different styles of skiing. They depend on the rigidity of flexors on a particular device. However, HHH systems help to better control skis when skating.

Brands

There are brands that make boots adapted to these systems. Ski boots for SNS are produced directly by Salomon, as well as Adidas, Fischer, Alfa. Brands producing boots for the HHH system are Rossignol, Alpina, Atomic and Karhu.

Material

Fasteners are made of modern materials, however, an important difference lies still not in them, but in various details. Namely, in the presence of brackets, flexors and lower fasteners. For example, flexors are made of rubber, or a spring is used instead.

For both systems I use high-quality plastic, rubber, metal parts.

Conclusion

Despite the points by which NNN and SNS can be distinguished, they are equally popular and are used almost equally in sports. Although HHH systems with automatic fastening. As the improvement progresses, the desires and abilities of a person are evaluated, based on which, he chooses the fastening system on his own.

Cross-country skiing is divided into racing, amateur and tourist. As a rule, the purpose is indicated in the product card.

1. Racing (marked Racing and Racing PRO). Such skis are designed for athletes and amateurs who want to develop speed indicators. This is an option for specially prepared tracks.
2. Amateur or pleasure (Active, Fitness). This is an option for those who sometimes choose to ride in the park, do it for fun and do not strive for records. Skis are slightly wider than racing skis; expensive materials and technologies are rarely used in their production.
3. Tourist (Back Country). These are skis for hunters, tourists and fishermen, people who need to move around, without a track or a ski track. Such skis are much wider than recreational ones in order to support the weight of a person on loose snow.

Skis

Classic skis (designation Classic or Cl) are longer than skate skis, have a sharp toe and a soft block. There may be notches under the last (designation TR) that prevent slipping during take-off. On the left - a ski with notches, on the right - without.

andrewskurka.com

If the ski does not have notches (WAX designation), a special ointment provides an anti-slip effect. However, beginners will find it quite difficult to apply it correctly, so a notched ski is the best option.

To choose the size of classic skis, add 20 cm to your height or simply raise your hand: the lowered palm of the outstretched hand should touch the top of the ski.

It is also worth paying attention to the stiffness of the skis. First determine the center of gravity: put the ski on your hand so that both ends are in balance. Then fold the skis with the sliding side towards each other and squeeze with one hand 3 cm below the found center of balance. There will be a distance of 1–1.5 mm between skis of suitable stiffness.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for classic skis are low and soft, without special inserts that fix the leg.

You don't have to buy boots. If the thumb rests on the toe of the boot, the foot will quickly freeze. It is better to take shoes half a size larger.

What to buy

Sticks

When choosing sticks for classic skiing, pay attention to their length. With short ones, it will be inconvenient for you to walk on flat terrain, with long ones, it will be inconvenient to climb slopes. Choose sticks according to your height: the lanyard outlet (the place where the strap is attached to the stick) should be at the level of your shoulder.

Sticks are made from aluminum, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Aluminum can bend under load. So, if you weigh a lot, choose glass and carbon fiber. The latter provides the greatest rigidity and lightness of the sticks. These sticks are used by professional athletes.

marax.ru

Also pay attention to the material of the handle. Sticks with a cork handle are well suited for walking in cold weather: the cork does not cool the hand, unlike plastic.

Skis

Skis for skating (designation Skate or Sk) are shorter and have a smooth block, since with this course the notches only interfere, clinging to the snow and reducing speed.

To find the ideal length for skating, add 5-10 cm to your height.

It is also worth checking the stiffness of the skis. The gap between the skis compressed with one hand should be 1.5–2 mm.

What to buy

Boots

To prevent injuries and excessive stress on the foot during skating, additional fixation is needed. Therefore, skating boots are taller and stiffer than classic ones and are complemented by a special plastic cuff.

What to buy

Sticks

Skating poles are longer than classic ones. The lanyard should be at the level of the chin or lips of the skier.

How to choose universal skis, boots and poles

If you plan to master both classic and skating, you can purchase universal equipment.

Skis

Universal skis (Combi designation) are longer than skate skis, but shorter than classic ones. To determine the correct length, add 15 cm to your height.

As for notches, some all-purpose skis have a replaceable middle: if you want to ride in a classic style, use notches; if in a ridge, remove the notched nozzle.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for universal skis are almost the same as classic ones. They are just as soft and flexible, but have a plastic cuff that supports the ankle.

What to buy

Sticks

For universal skis, poles are suitable for both classic and skating.

What are fasteners

Three types of mounts are now common: the outdated NN 75, NNN (with or without the NIS platform) and SNS.

sprint5.ru

Surely many remember this mount from childhood. This is an ordinary metal brace that fixes the leg, but it does it quite badly.

It is almost impossible to skate with the NN 75. In addition, good boots for this mount are not produced. The only advantage is the low price.

What to buy

NNN (New Nordic Norm)

Auto mount NNN / spine.ru

This mount consists of two guides (flexors) located at some distance
apart, and a rubber stop.

There are two options for such mounts: automatic and mechanical. The NNN's automatic fastening latches with a simple push of the boot on the brace. In the case of a mechanical one, you will have to open the lid with your hands, and after installing the boot, close it.

Mechanical fixings NNN / manaraga.ru

However, the mechanical fastening is more reliable: it cannot accidentally come unfastened, for example, during a fall. Also, if you're planning on skiing in warmer weather, water that gets into the automatic binding can freeze and block it.

Also, fasteners differ in the degree of rigidity. If the NNN rubber stop is white, the binding is designed for hard riding, if it is green, for softer riding. Black stops are suitable for standard skiing, and red ones for soft skiing.

If you prefer skating, choose bindings with white or green elastic bands. If classic - with black or red.

To install NNN on skis, you need to find the center of gravity and drill a hole for the mounts. However, there is an easier and more convenient method of installation: special NIS platforms.

Mount NNN NIS / dostupny-sport.ru

The Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was developed in 2005 for NNN mounts. Skis adapted to NIS are equipped with a special plate on which the mount is installed. Skis do not need to be drilled, just slide the mount along the guide plates and snap into place.

The mount is easy to install and remove, eliminates the search for the center of gravity of the ski and can be used with different pairs of skis.

What to buy

This is a mount with one wide rail and two brackets. SNS mounts are also divided into automatic and mechanical.

shamov-russia.ru

Unlike NNN, SNS has only three levels of hardness. They are marked with a numerical value and a color. For a classic ride, you should choose bindings with a flexor hardness of 85 (yellow), for skating - 115 (red), and for universal use - 95 (pink).

In terms of comfort, stability and lateral stability, there is little difference between SNS and NNN mounts.

Most cross country ski boots are designed with some type of binding. Therefore, first choose shoes that fit perfectly on your foot, and only then the bindings suitable for them.

Due to the NIS, NNN fasteners are more convenient to install, but SNS are more stable: due to the platform, NNNs are higher than SNS screwed on. On the other hand, a higher position increases the force of the push. In general, both bindings are used by both amateurs and professional athletes.

What to buy

What materials to choose

Skis made from solid timber or glued layers of wood are a thing of the past. In modern models, wood is also used, but, as a rule, the core consists of it, and the sliding surface is made of plastic.

If you're used to skiing with a wooden base, the plastic can feel uncomfortable due to the recoil. Plastic is more slippery and, unlike wood, does not “dislodge” when rubbing against snow.

However, with proper lubrication of plastic skis, it is quite possible to avoid kickback. As for the benefits, plastic skis are more durable and, unlike wooden ones, allow you to ski in positive temperatures.

According to the manufacturing method, skis are divided into Sandwich and Cap. The former are several glued layers of plastic and wood, the latter are a wooden core with a monolithic plastic cover.

For cheaper skis, the core is made of wood with air channels. In professional and more expensive ones, it is a wooden honeycomb or is made on the basis of acrylic foam with a carbon and fiberglass mesh, lightweight polyurethane foam with carbon and fiberglass inserts (Polycell technology), Densolite foam or other lightweight synthetic materials.

The sliding surface is made of different types of plastic. For cheaper options, extruded plastic is used, for more expensive options, high molecular weight universal plastic is used.

Many new technologies and materials are now being used to keep skis light and at the same time provide strength. However, all this comes at a price.

Therefore, if you are a beginner, it is worth trying regular skis with a core made of wood or Densolite foam and a base made of extruded or high molecular weight plastic. The price of such skis depends on the specific brand and ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 rubles.

Which brands to look out for

Among the well-known Russian manufacturers is the STC factory. She makes both racing and recreational Sable skis, fiberglass ski poles.

Professional models - with a honeycomb core and a sliding surface PTEX 2000 (carbon fiber), and amateur models - with a wooden core and a plastic coating. Skis are made using Cap technology and are sold at very affordable prices.

Among foreign brands (whose products are often produced in Russian factories, including STC), the Austrian manufacturer of skis and equipment Fischer is quite popular.

Fischer produces men's, women's and children's professional and amateur skis, using combined materials such as a wooden core with Air Tec Basalight basalt fibers. Fischer skis can be bought at a price of 5,000 rubles.

No less famous is the French ski brand Rossignol, whose production is located in Spain and Ukraine. The cheapest amateur skis with a light wood core and a plastic sliding surface can be bought for 5,500–6,000 rubles. Almost all skis of this brand are equipped with the NIS platform.

The third brand from the rating is the Norwegian company Madshus. Amateur skis of this brand are made using Cap technology with a core of wood with channels, glass and carbon fiber braid and a plastic base. The cost of the cheapest skis of this brand is 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Approximately in the same price category, the cheapest amateur skis are the Austrian brand Atomic and the French company Salomon. The cheaper Salomon models have a Densolite dry foam core and a graphite base, while the more expensive professional models have honeycomb cores and a zeolite base.

Each brand develops its own technologies: lighter cores, adding various minerals to improve glide, changing ski geometry. Therefore, it is best to focus on the purpose of the skis (for which course, pleasure or sports) and the availability of a length and stiffness suitable for you.

Cross-country skiing is divided into racing, amateur and tourist. As a rule, the purpose is indicated in the product card.

1. Racing (marked Racing and Racing PRO). Such skis are designed for athletes and amateurs who want to develop speed indicators. This is an option for specially prepared tracks.
2. Amateur or pleasure (Active, Fitness). This is an option for those who sometimes choose to ride in the park, do it for fun and do not strive for records. Skis are slightly wider than racing skis; expensive materials and technologies are rarely used in their production.
3. Tourist (Back Country). These are skis for hunters, tourists and fishermen, people who need to move around, without a track or a ski track. Such skis are much wider than recreational ones in order to support the weight of a person on loose snow.

Skis

Classic skis (designation Classic or Cl) are longer than skate skis, have a sharp toe and a soft block. There may be notches under the last (designation TR) that prevent slipping during take-off. On the left - a ski with notches, on the right - without.

andrewskurka.com

If the ski does not have notches (WAX designation), a special ointment provides an anti-slip effect. However, beginners will find it quite difficult to apply it correctly, so a notched ski is the best option.

To choose the size of classic skis, add 20 cm to your height or simply raise your hand: the lowered palm of the outstretched hand should touch the top of the ski.

It is also worth paying attention to the stiffness of the skis. First determine the center of gravity: put the ski on your hand so that both ends are in balance. Then fold the skis with the sliding side towards each other and squeeze with one hand 3 cm below the found center of balance. There will be a distance of 1–1.5 mm between skis of suitable stiffness.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for classic skis are low and soft, without special inserts that fix the leg.

You don't have to buy boots. If the thumb rests on the toe of the boot, the foot will quickly freeze. It is better to take shoes half a size larger.

What to buy

Sticks

When choosing sticks for classic skiing, pay attention to their length. With short ones, it will be inconvenient for you to walk on flat terrain, with long ones, it will be inconvenient to climb slopes. Choose sticks according to your height: the lanyard outlet (the place where the strap is attached to the stick) should be at the level of your shoulder.

Sticks are made from aluminum, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Aluminum can bend under load. So, if you weigh a lot, choose glass and carbon fiber. The latter provides the greatest rigidity and lightness of the sticks. These sticks are used by professional athletes.

marax.ru

Also pay attention to the material of the handle. Sticks with a cork handle are well suited for walking in cold weather: the cork does not cool the hand, unlike plastic.

Skis

Skis for skating (designation Skate or Sk) are shorter and have a smooth block, since with this course the notches only interfere, clinging to the snow and reducing speed.

To find the ideal length for skating, add 5-10 cm to your height.

It is also worth checking the stiffness of the skis. The gap between the skis compressed with one hand should be 1.5–2 mm.

What to buy

Boots

To prevent injuries and excessive stress on the foot during skating, additional fixation is needed. Therefore, skating boots are taller and stiffer than classic ones and are complemented by a special plastic cuff.

What to buy

Sticks

Skating poles are longer than classic ones. The lanyard should be at the level of the chin or lips of the skier.

How to choose universal skis, boots and poles

If you plan to master both classic and skating, you can purchase universal equipment.

Skis

Universal skis (Combi designation) are longer than skate skis, but shorter than classic ones. To determine the correct length, add 15 cm to your height.

As for notches, some all-purpose skis have a replaceable middle: if you want to ride in a classic style, use notches; if in a ridge, remove the notched nozzle.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for universal skis are almost the same as classic ones. They are just as soft and flexible, but have a plastic cuff that supports the ankle.

What to buy

Sticks

For universal skis, poles are suitable for both classic and skating.

What are fasteners

Three types of mounts are now common: the outdated NN 75, NNN (with or without the NIS platform) and SNS.

sprint5.ru

Surely many remember this mount from childhood. This is an ordinary metal brace that fixes the leg, but it does it quite badly.

It is almost impossible to skate with the NN 75. In addition, good boots for this mount are not produced. The only advantage is the low price.

What to buy

NNN (New Nordic Norm)

Auto mount NNN / spine.ru

This mount consists of two guides (flexors) located at some distance
apart, and a rubber stop.

There are two options for such mounts: automatic and mechanical. The NNN's automatic fastening latches with a simple push of the boot on the brace. In the case of a mechanical one, you will have to open the lid with your hands, and after installing the boot, close it.

Mechanical fixings NNN / manaraga.ru

However, the mechanical fastening is more reliable: it cannot accidentally come unfastened, for example, during a fall. Also, if you're planning on skiing in warmer weather, water that gets into the automatic binding can freeze and block it.

Also, fasteners differ in the degree of rigidity. If the NNN rubber stop is white, the binding is designed for hard riding, if it is green, for softer riding. Black stops are suitable for standard skiing, and red ones for soft skiing.

If you prefer skating, choose bindings with white or green elastic bands. If classic - with black or red.

To install NNN on skis, you need to find the center of gravity and drill a hole for the mounts. However, there is an easier and more convenient method of installation: special NIS platforms.

Mount NNN NIS / dostupny-sport.ru

The Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was developed in 2005 for NNN mounts. Skis adapted to NIS are equipped with a special plate on which the mount is installed. Skis do not need to be drilled, just slide the mount along the guide plates and snap into place.

The mount is easy to install and remove, eliminates the search for the center of gravity of the ski and can be used with different pairs of skis.

What to buy

This is a mount with one wide rail and two brackets. SNS mounts are also divided into automatic and mechanical.

shamov-russia.ru

Unlike NNN, SNS has only three levels of hardness. They are marked with a numerical value and a color. For a classic ride, you should choose bindings with a flexor hardness of 85 (yellow), for skating - 115 (red), and for universal use - 95 (pink).

In terms of comfort, stability and lateral stability, there is little difference between SNS and NNN mounts.

Most cross country ski boots are designed with some type of binding. Therefore, first choose shoes that fit perfectly on your foot, and only then the bindings suitable for them.

Due to the NIS, NNN fasteners are more convenient to install, but SNS are more stable: due to the platform, NNNs are higher than SNS screwed on. On the other hand, a higher position increases the force of the push. In general, both bindings are used by both amateurs and professional athletes.

What to buy

What materials to choose

Skis made from solid timber or glued layers of wood are a thing of the past. In modern models, wood is also used, but, as a rule, the core consists of it, and the sliding surface is made of plastic.

If you're used to skiing with a wooden base, the plastic can feel uncomfortable due to the recoil. Plastic is more slippery and, unlike wood, does not “dislodge” when rubbing against snow.

However, with proper lubrication of plastic skis, it is quite possible to avoid kickback. As for the benefits, plastic skis are more durable and, unlike wooden ones, allow you to ski in positive temperatures.

According to the manufacturing method, skis are divided into Sandwich and Cap. The former are several glued layers of plastic and wood, the latter are a wooden core with a monolithic plastic cover.

For cheaper skis, the core is made of wood with air channels. In professional and more expensive ones, it is a wooden honeycomb or is made on the basis of acrylic foam with a carbon and fiberglass mesh, lightweight polyurethane foam with carbon and fiberglass inserts (Polycell technology), Densolite foam or other lightweight synthetic materials.

The sliding surface is made of different types of plastic. For cheaper options, extruded plastic is used, for more expensive options, high molecular weight universal plastic is used.

Many new technologies and materials are now being used to keep skis light and at the same time provide strength. However, all this comes at a price.

Therefore, if you are a beginner, it is worth trying regular skis with a core made of wood or Densolite foam and a base made of extruded or high molecular weight plastic. The price of such skis depends on the specific brand and ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 rubles.

Which brands to look out for

Among the well-known Russian manufacturers is the STC factory. She makes both racing and recreational Sable skis, fiberglass ski poles.

Professional models - with a honeycomb core and a sliding surface PTEX 2000 (carbon fiber), and amateur models - with a wooden core and a plastic coating. Skis are made using Cap technology and are sold at very affordable prices.

Among foreign brands (whose products are often produced in Russian factories, including STC), the Austrian manufacturer of skis and equipment Fischer is quite popular.

Fischer produces men's, women's and children's professional and amateur skis, using combined materials such as a wooden core with Air Tec Basalight basalt fibers. Fischer skis can be bought at a price of 5,000 rubles.

No less famous is the French ski brand Rossignol, whose production is located in Spain and Ukraine. The cheapest amateur skis with a light wood core and a plastic sliding surface can be bought for 5,500–6,000 rubles. Almost all skis of this brand are equipped with the NIS platform.

The third brand from the rating is the Norwegian company Madshus. Amateur skis of this brand are made using Cap technology with a core of wood with channels, glass and carbon fiber braid and a plastic base. The cost of the cheapest skis of this brand is 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Approximately in the same price category, the cheapest amateur skis are the Austrian brand Atomic and the French company Salomon. The cheaper Salomon models have a Densolite dry foam core and a graphite base, while the more expensive professional models have honeycomb cores and a zeolite base.

Each brand develops its own technologies: lighter cores, adding various minerals to improve glide, changing ski geometry. Therefore, it is best to focus on the purpose of the skis (for which course, pleasure or sports) and the availability of a length and stiffness suitable for you.

To get real pleasure from skiing, you should pay attention not only to the choice of skis, but also to the quality of the bindings. Bindings are a kind of drive, an important link between the legs, shod in boots, and the actual skis. If not everything, then a lot depends on the quality of this “intermediary”. What is the best ski carrier?

Selection of ski bindings

The right mount tightly covers the shoes, but at the same time it is able to quickly come unfastened in a critical situation. For example, if you suddenly fall during a sharp turn.

Another important point! Under heavy loads, the binding should respond adequately - continue to hold the foot in place, and not immediately unfasten.

Choosing the right mount starts with... selection. Having shoes suitable in size and all other characteristics in your sports equipment, you can start choosing bindings for specific shoes and available ones.

General information about skis and bindings

Skiing is an ancient invention. They first appeared about 4.5 thousand years ago in Scandinavia. And to this day, many improvements have been made.

For fasteners, this transformation is the most impressive. The banal tying of the leg with a belt passed through four holes sawn into the ski has been replaced by modern fastening systems made of plastic and metal.

Due to the wide range of ski equipment on the market and the literal translation of most foreign names into Russian, choosing a fastener for a beginner is not an easy task. The concept of "cross-country skiing" is especially broad. They can be "professional", "racing", "recreational", "universal" and so on.

It is best to choose inventory, based on speed.

• Sports equipment will be required for those who ride at a speed of 15 to 30 km / h on a good track.
• Amateur equipment is ideal for those reaching speeds of 9-15 km / h.
• Movement on the ski track no faster than 4-8 km / h will require tourist equipment.

Types of ski mounts

Mounting is carried out directly on skis or on special platforms. The latter can be installed by the manufacturer and have pre-drilled holes. In this case, the fasteners themselves will have to be bought by a certain company. Any fixing systems can be placed on platforms without holes. Holes in this case are drilled independently.

Mount consists made of two separate parts and a plate under the toe, which reduces the friction of the boot. The front part is responsible for the side release, the back provides the upward release.

The size of the front and rear coverage is the same for all models. So you can use shoes any manufacturer.

Alpine ski binding adjustment carried out depending on the weight of the skier. It also takes into account the experience and manner of skating. When skiing aggressively, the skis should not come loose.

1. To determine the unit of actuation of the fasteners, you need to divide the weight of a person by 10. And for beginners, subtract 1-2 units from the resulting indicator.
2. The maximum adjustment limits for ski bindings are plus or minus 3-4 units from the figure obtained at the beginning (weight minus 10).
3. Sometimes the force is indicated not in units, but in kilograms. In this case, 20-30 kilograms are subtracted from the weight.
4. To install the correct fastening unit, you can use the special tables that come with the fastening system. It is better for inexperienced skiers to resort to the help of an instructor or a seller.

Mounts are:

• Fastened by hand. Disadvantage: relatively high price.
• Semi-automatic and automatic. Flaws :
  - jamming when water enters and freezes;
  - may not open without support on a hard surface (for example, when falling into deep snow).

Fastening features for cross-country skis are determined by the tracks on which they are used. When driving on flat or slightly rugged terrain, simplicity and low weight of the mounts are required.

Manufacturers produce 3 main types ski bindings: Roteffella (NNN system and its new version NIS), Salomon (SNS system) and c (familiar to everyone in the USSR).

1 77 mm (NN 75)- consists of three spikes mounted on a metal plate with a springy shackle.

Until recently, this type of binding was most often used among recreational skiers. He is well known to all of us from early childhood.

Advantages ski bindings NN 75:

• low price;
• the best option for teaching a child (enough for a year of use).

Flaws:

• difficult to put on and take off;
• a lot of cheap and low-quality models;
• boots for this type of binding are gradually leaving the market;
• inconvenient division into right and left fasteners.

2 Ski bindings SNS (Salomon Nordic System) designed for professional use. Both automatic and manual fastenings of this system are produced.

Advantages SNS ski bindings :

• high quality and reliability;

Flaws:

• special shoes are required - boots with a rod included in the groove of the fasteners;
• used exclusively on tracks treated with a snowcat;
• shortage of shoes for this type of fastening.

3 Ski bindings NNN (Rottefella) are produced in two types: fastened directly with screws and put on a special "sled" (NIS-mount).

Advantages ski bindings NNN :

• a wide selection of boots by price, manufacturer;
• the ability to choose the type of fasteners: automatic or manual;
• optimal combination of price and quality;
• availability of children's and youth models.

Flaws: automatic fasteners may freeze if water gets inside.

Secrets of selection and settings

• Experienced skiers are more likely to choose hand-attached systems.
• For beginners and amateurs, automatic options are more suitable, the easiest to use. Considering that the speeds and elevation changes will be small, and the tracks will be smoother, accidental shooting or, conversely, not detaching the skis (in case of water freezing) is not as dangerous as downhill skiing on a difficult track for professionals.
  The dimensions of the bindings are selected according to the width of the skis (their "waist"). Usually they are specified by the ski manufacturer and directly depend on the ski stop, a special wire at the back of the binding.
• Screws with load scales (for adjusting the actuation) must be installed in accordance with the tables attached to the fastening mechanism. If in any doubt, seek professional advice. Arbitrary unfastening of skis, as well as failure of the release mechanism, can lead to serious injuries - fractures or sprains.
• For all beginner skiers, the soft binding marked "Classic" is suitable.
• The choice of ski bindings is an exciting process, and with sufficient theoretical preparation, it is also quite simple.

How did you choose the fasteners? What difficulties did you have or was the purchase easy? Please share the secrets of your choice in the field for