What ski bindings to choose. NNN and SNS ski mounts: differences, pros and cons

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 state-of-the-art fastening systems, and the debate over which one is better has been going on among professional and amateur athletes for a long time.

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 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, the SNS Pilot bindings are praised by many 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 under the second bracket and is compressed into an ice lump, preventing the boot from being properly placed on the binding. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

In front of the attachment of these two systems are rubber stops (flexors). When pushing, the toe of the boot rests against the flexor. Depending on the rigidity of the flexor, the rigidity of the ski control is regulated, therefore, flexors of different rigidity are used for different styles of skiing. For skating, when a firm grip is required between the leg and the ski, rigid flexors are used, respectively. Softer flexors are used for the classic style, there are also medium hard flexors designed for amateur skiers who ski both "skate" and "classic". Flexors can be replaced (but they are hard to find in stores in our city!), however, this feature is of interest mainly to amateur skiers, since athletes for each style select not only certain bindings, but also skis.

Both types of bindings are versatile in the sense that they can be "fitted" to any boot size. Exceptions are mounts for small children (up to seven years old) and teenagers. SALOMON and ROTTEFELLA produce special bindings for children and youth. They differ from "adults" in a large latch handle, so that it is convenient to take it in mittens. In addition, children's bindings have a softer fastening mechanism so that a small child can freely put on and take off skis.

Bindings are distinguished by boot guides along the bindings. SNS has one central ledge, while NNN has two parallel ones. , the boot fastening system is somewhat different. For SNS bindings, the boot bracket is fixed immediately in the toe of the boot, and for NNN bindings, it is shifted 10 mm back (under the fingers). This arrangement gives somewhat better ski control when skating. Another difference between the mounts concerns the color of the rubber bands. Depending on the stiffness of the elastic bands, they have different colors, so you can immediately determine which style the bindings are intended for. NNN rubber bands come in four colors.

For skating style, white (for strong style) and green (for softer skating) rubber bands are used. Mounts for the "classic" are black (standard) or red (soft). The SNS company uses three types of rubber bands, which, in addition to color, differ in an extruded conditional stiffness figure. For the "classic" elastic bands are yellow, with a hardness of 85. "Skate" elastic bands are red, with a hardness number of 115, and universal ones are pink-lilac with a hardness of 95. SNS makes both bindings and boots, and NNN makes bindings and soles for boots, which subsequently used by other companies for tailoring shoes. Unlike SNS system bindings, NNN produces bindings specifically for other companies with their name, such as ROSSIGNOL. If you opted for SNS bindings, then you need to check that they match with the boots. This is due to the fact that the models of bindings (and, accordingly, boots) of recent years are somewhat different from older ones.

Afterword to the article

NNN and SNS - in my opinion, absolutely equivalent types of bindings Both of these systems are ridden by professional athletes. On the Internet, you can find dozens of forums about the dispute between these two systems, but it was not possible to find a specific answer - everyone decides for himself what to choose.

Naturally, skis are one of the most important components of a skier's equipment, but not all. You will need bindings and special boots. And their diversity will confuse any beginner in skiing. And in order to decide on the choice of this ski equipment, before going to the store it will be useful to familiarize yourself with what you should pay attention to when buying.

Choice of boots

First of all, you should choose the most comfortable boots for yourself, and then look after the appropriate ski bindings. Therefore, the description will begin with ski boots.

Cross-country ski boots, like skis, are divided into three types according to the intended style of skiing and four according to the target audience.
Depending on the style of cross-country skiing, you will need boots:

• for skating style you need a high boot with a rigid cuff to fix the leg. The load on the leg with this style is higher, because the presence of a cuff is mandatory - without it, the skier can injure the leg;
• a low boot with a soft sole goes for a traditional style;
• there are also universal boots, they come with or without a removable hard cuff, with a moderately hard sole.

According to the target audience, ski boots are divided into the following groups:

• boots for professionals. Such boots are subjected to the greatest load, and therefore, in their production, great attention is paid to reliability and quality. Professional cross-country ski boots use the latest technology, so you rarely see leather elements in them - there are synthetic materials that are superior to leather in many ways. Boots for professionals are expensive, but they will last quite a long time;
• boots for sports tourism. These shoes are also subject to serious requirements. They are mainly purchased by tourists with extensive experience, as well as climbers. Sports touring boots make it comfortable for hiking, without skis, if necessary. They are most often made combined, with a replaceable cuff, the material is genuine leather with synthetic inserts. They must be reliable and durable, impact resistant;
• boots for recreational skiing. There are no high requirements for such boots, so there are both expensive and cheaper ones: depending on the materials from which the boots are made;
• boots for children. Children's shoes should be comfortable, durable and warm. In addition, they should be easy to put on and easy to take off.

Cross-country ski boots mostly use laces. If you let go of the laces on the boot so that it can be put on freely, the laces should not fall out through the topmost lacing hole, i.e. be long enough. A properly laced boot, on the one hand, securely fixes the foot, and on the other hand, does not squeeze it. It happens that in the upper part of the boot there is an additional linden - it protects against snow getting into the boot and serves as an additional fixative.
In no case should you buy ski boots without trying them on, and be sure to wear socks when trying them on. It can be either specialized socks for skiing, or woolen - not thin, and not thick. The ski boot should never press. On the other hand, it will be difficult to control skis in boots that are too loose.
So, trying on a boot, you need to walk in it, stand up, tear your heel off the floor - inside the boot, the heel should fit snugly against the sole, not come off it. MirSovetov also recommends paying attention to the fact that the fold formed when lifting the heel in the area of ​​​​the instep of the foot should not put pressure on the fingers. If the shoes do not fit these criteria, it means that they do not suit you.
In addition, if skate boots are chosen, the cuff should hold the leg well, but not squeeze or interfere with its movement. In general, as for the stiffness of the boot, it is the largest for the skating style, the smallest for the classics, and the average for the combi.

The structure of ski boots is fundamentally different from the structure of cross-country ski boots. Ski boots consist of two elements - an outer boot and an inner boot.
The outer boot is responsible for the momentum transmitted by the skier during movement - the stiffer the boot, the better the skis obey.
Different companies define the stiffness of ski boots in different ways. Some firms characterize them simply: “soft”, “hard”. Others, namely Nordica and Salomon, have deduced the absolute value of stiffness - a kilogram of force per degree of deflection (meaning forward bending). For beginners, MirSovetov recommends boots with stiffness in the range of 15-60 kgf / deg. For those who have already mastered and have basic skiing skills, this bar rises to 40-80 kgf / deg. Further, when you are already quite confident on skis, you should look at ski boots with a stiffness of 60-90 kgf / deg. And the rigidity of 115 kgf / deg and more is designed for those who go in for skiing professionally, they should not be taken into consideration yet.
In general, the rigidity of the outer boot can be adjusted - but if the skier is on skis for the first time, this, of course, will not help him. The stiffness adjustment is designed for advanced skiers. Depending on the slope or effort applied, it can be slightly changed.
On the front part of the shaft there are metal or plastic fasteners-clips, equipped with length adjustment for a more precise and comfortable fixation of the leg. The number of clips can be from 1 to 4 per boot.
In addition to clips, boots can be equipped with screws designed for different purposes. For example, with a folding back, such a screw is built into a large clip; when it is twisted inside the boot, the tape fixing the leg is tightened.
In ski boots, there may also be a power belt that fixes the cuff (shaft) along its upper part.
The cuff itself can be adjusted in inclination forward and backward, which serves to more accurately fit the boot to the skier's stance. Additionally, ski boots may have another feature called canting. This option allows you to change the angle of the cuff of the boot to the left / right, adjusting it to the structure of the skeleton of the legs of a particular person.
At the back of the boot is an element responsible for improving the transfer of force to the ski.
When walking off the slope, it is convenient to have the upper part of the boot loosened. For this, there is a “walking-skating” switch, which just frees the leg enclosed in the boot from shackling.

Another existing difference in ski boots is the principle of entry. In boots with a front entry, the cuff opens at the front, which provides a better fit for the boot. Most often, this principle is used for sports and expert models; in such boots, the cuff does not have a back tilt adjustment. The mid-entry boots feature a partially fold-down back of the boot, making it easier to put on and take off. Lastly, rear-entry boots, most comfortable for beginners, have a fold-down heel that makes them fairly easy to put on.
The inner boot in ski boots is made of soft materials. It simultaneously removes the need to put on a sock under the boot and serves for a finer fit.
Materials for the inner boot differ in their properties. For models intended for beginners, the boot is made in such a way that it takes the exact shape of the foot within the first minutes. In expert models, this takes time - the liner is made of a tougher, more stubborn material. On the one hand, it provides better contact with the ski (as well as the rigidity of the outer boot), but on the other hand, skiers who do not have the proper level of training will be uncomfortable in such boots. They can be upgraded over time.
Choosing boots for skiing on mountain slopes is more difficult. Regarding the size, there is one elementary rule that should be followed: if the foot is wide, it is better to take half a size more, because when loaded, it will definitely become even wider. For the same reason, it is necessary to try on shoes while standing.
It is necessary to try on a thin elastic sock. It should be perfectly even and smooth, without any folds, and end above the border of the end of the cuff.
You need to understand that it is useless to focus on the manufacturer when choosing - each of them produces shoes with its own characteristics - with a wider or narrower toe or heel, with different insteps, and so on. The price for a ski boot is also not the most accurate indicator. The most expensive shoes are the expert ones, they will be very difficult for a beginner. It is extremely important to choose comfortable boots - if you try on at least a little pressure, you should not take them - on the slope this discomfort will increase many times over, which can cause a spoiled vacation (at best).
When trying on a boot, you need to fasten all the clips. You should start fastening the boot from the second clip from the toe, the one that tightens the arch of the foot, thereby fixing the heel. After that, you should listen to the sensations - do the fingers rest against the sock, can they be moved a little; the heel should not dangle or come off the insole when tilted. You need to move your foot back and forth, from side to side.
Now you can try to tighten the clips to the maximum. There is a pitfall here: do not forget that the inner boot has not yet crumpled, and then you will need to tighten the clips more strongly. And if, when trying on, they are already tightened as much as possible, then later, when it is really needed, the clips cannot be tightened.
If it seems that the boot is still small, MirSovetov recommends putting half a size larger on the second leg and again listening to the sensations of which leg is more comfortable. When trying on, you need to sit down - if it throws back, then the boot is harsh. It is better to spend 15-20 minutes in boots, stand, walk a little. Having bought boots, you should not put them away before skiing - you can walk in them at home, preparing your feet for the slopes ...
As for the companies that produce ski boots, there are a lot of them. Rossignol, Salomon, Fischer, etc. have proven themselves well.
It is useful to know that, along with typical target groups, manufacturers distinguish carving ski boots and women's models.
There is no need for carving boots for beginners, they are designed for athletes who have long and firmly stood on skis. And the differences between these models are as follows:

• on the one hand, the increased rigidity of the outer boot in the lateral direction and, conversely, the weakening of the resistance of the cuff in the forward-backward tilt;
• along with the usual “walking-skating” switch, there is a third one (“soft”, “carve”), which is responsible for the soft resistance of the boot in the fold forward or backward.
• in this model, a “platform” is almost always used, raising the skier's leg higher above the ski surface.

In women's models, manufacturers take into account the features of the female structure, as well as the center of gravity (therefore, the upper part of the boot is more tilted forward). A higher rise is provided under the arch of the foot, and at the same time, in such a lower heel, the heel is narrower.

Choice of mounts

Cross-country ski bindings come in three types:

• front (Nordic 75);
• with a "chute" (SNS system);
• with "rails" (NNN system).

The front ones are outdated mounts, now little in demand, despite the cheapness. The last two types of fasteners are the most in demand. The difference between the "gutter" and "rails" is that in the first case, the boots have one strip for fastening, and in the second - two.
Let's dwell on each of the mounts in more detail.
Front mounts, Nordic 75. As mentioned above, this type is outdated, and is almost never used.
The NNN system has two mounting protrusions, "rails". This type of binding is preferred by amateurs, since, unlike the SNS, the front bracket of the boot is moved back, which allows better control of the skis.
There are rubber stops at the front of the NNN mounts. By their color, hardness can be easily determined. Determining the stiffness is important in order to understand which bindings are best for you based on your preferred riding style. For skating, more rigidity is required, for classic, respectively, less. The color options for bindings indicating stiffness are as follows: white for the most rigid style, green for softer riding, black for standard rubber bands and red for softer ones. Thus, white and green are suitable for skate style, while black and red are suitable for classic style.
Rottefella specializes in such mounts, and also produces them for other companies. Thus, boots from Alfa, Artex, Alpina, and Rossignol novelties are also suitable for NNN bindings.
The SNS system differs from the above in that the boot bracket is fixed immediately in its toe. As for the color of the rubber stops, they are also different. There are three types of them, but on the "elastic bands" a figure is also squeezed out corresponding to the rigidity. There are yellow (with the number 85) - for the classics, red (115) - for the skate and universal (95) - pink-lilac. It has one protrusion for fastening the "groove".
SNS bindings and boots are manufactured by Salomon. MirSovetov draws your attention to the fact that the new models of SNS mounts and boots differ from the old ones, and therefore, when buying, you should consult about the compatibility of both.
The following boot companies are suitable for SNS bindings: Salomon, old models Rossignol, Adidas, Karhu, Fisher.
SNS and NNN bindings fit all shoe sizes. The exceptions are children's and youth, they produce special fasteners, which are distinguished by a large latch handle and a softer fastening mechanism.
By the way, there are two types of fasteners:

• automatic;
• mechanical.

In the first case, as soon as you insert the bracket into the groove, they will snap into place, in the second case, the fasteners are closed manually. Despite the seeming inconvenience of the second type, it is he who is characteristic of professional fasteners, since it is fixed more securely.
As for the installation of fasteners, MirSovetov recommends doing this in a specialized place (in a service or store). The danger is that you can incorrectly determine the center of gravity, accidentally drill through the ski through or make the holes for the fasteners too large.

Skiing
In alpine skiing, the safety of the skier depends largely on the bindings. Everything is done so that when moving, they securely fix the boot, preventing it from moving out, but at the same time, if there is a possibility of a fall or injury, they immediately unfasten it.
Modern bindings for ski boots are made of heavy-duty materials - titanium, steel or high-strength plastic. The main fastening elements are: fastening head, fastening heel, platform and skistop.
Attachment head. This is the front part of the binding, which is responsible for releasing the toe of the boot when the skier falls - sideways and backwards. Its most important characteristic is elasticity. This is the ability of the head to not open up during short impulse impacts, but to return the “left” boot to its original position. Vertical elasticity can be up to 20 mm, lateral - up to 45 mm. In addition, some models have the Twincam system, which allows the boot to move to the side by half the sole. If the displacement continues, the head unfastens, if not, it returns the boot to its place.
Attachment heel. Performs the same functions as the head, only frees the heel of the boot if necessary. It also has an indicator of vertical elasticity (up to 25 mm).
According to the method of fastening, they are divided into:

• fastened by hand;
• semi-automatic - they are set manually, and then snap into place when pressed with a foot;
• automatic - fasteners snap into place when pressed;

When choosing bindings in the store, it would be nice to know the actuation value - the indicator at which the bindings will unfasten. An experienced consultant or instructor will help to cope with this task.
Platform. The part of a ski binding that connects the head and heel. Its main function is to provide better contact between the mount and the ski, to mitigate micro-shocks (for example, on an uneven track) and to dampen vibration. In addition, the higher position of the boot relative to the sliding surface and the edge gives a number of advantages: it allows you not to disturb the flexibility of the ski, contributes to a more convenient distribution of effort expended on movement, etc.
Skistop is a system responsible for braking the ski when it falls. Roughly speaking, rods of metal that drop down the sides of the ski when the boot is released from the binding. Therefore, in order for the skistop to be effective, i.e. was able to slow down the ski when it was unfastened after a fall, MirSovetov advises choosing skistops in such a way that the width is greater than the width of the ski.

It is very important to initially choose the most suitable skis, bindings and boots for them. Because any discomfort when skiing will discourage the desire for further skiing. But at the same time, it is very difficult for the first time not to make a single mistake when choosing. The final understanding of what you really need will only come with time, with experience in riding. Therefore, if possible, before buying your first equipment, try out several different skis, boots, bindings (for example, by renting or borrowing from friends). Then you will be prepared for the purchase not only theoretically.
In the next article, in order to finally prepare you, we will tell you,

After buying skis and boots, you should think about fasteners. Skiing is impossible without them. choose responsibly, taking into account all the nuances.

Fasteners are divided according to the features of their structure:

• automatic;
• mechanical.

The advantages of automatic models include:

• fastened with a machine, no need to bend down each row;
• low price of goods.

There are disadvantages:

• if pieces of ice or snow get under the shoe bracket, the automation does not work. We have to completely clear all the components of the structure;
• in case of poor-quality trimming, the fasteners may work for automatic detachment. This leads to disastrous results;
• at low temperatures, the boots stick to the bindings, as a result of which the automatic detachment does not work. In this case, the boots are removed along with all the equipment, placed in a warm place to thaw.

The advantages of fasteners on the mechanics include:

• simple and secure fastening;
• independent detachment is excluded even in adverse situations.

Of the shortcomings, only the high price is noted. But if the priority is quality, reliability, then it is worth paying more.

Selection of ski bindings

Choose ski bindings from well-known and trusted manufacturers. Salomon, Rottefella, Fischer, Rossignol, Atomic are the companies that have become brands due to the quality and reliability of their products. The cost of models, of course, is more, but the result is worth it. High quality materials are used for production. Before sale pass careful testing for quality. Analogues of Russian and Chinese manufacturers are inferior in all these indicators, but their price is much lower.

General information about skis and bindings

Fasteners are divided into three types:

• front;
• on the gutter (SNS);
• on rails (NNN).

The first type refers to obsolete technologies. At present, it has ceased to be in demand even at their low price. The next two are very popular. They differ in the number of strips for fixing fasteners.

Types of ski mounts

Ski bindings are divided into types according to their characteristics. Sports equipment is selected individually. The main species are mountain and.

Ski bindings

Mounting options for mining equipment are divided into two parts: front head, rear heel. Both of them are equipped with a scale. Thanks to them, the process of setting forces is easier to perform.

The bindings have brakes, which are called ski stops. They are designed to brake the skids after they are detached. Most options have a platform equipped with rails. All parts of the bindings move along them, which allows them to be adjusted to fit shoes of any size.

The principle of operation of the front part is to press the toe of the boot to the ski. In case of excessive load, the system automatically works, unfastening the shoes. This reduces the number of injuries. The rear end secures the heel of the shoe and works the same way.

Cross-country ski bindings

For cross-country skiing, these types are used.

For them, there are protrusions on the rails. Mainly used as the front brace is slightly moved to the back. With this option, the skis are easier to manage.

Fasteners on the gutter have multi-colored rubber stops. The color of flexors for ski bindings helps to distinguish the degree of rigidity and choose the option for a particular skiing technique. The meanings of the colors are as follows:

• white for hard skating;
• green means the ski bindings are semi-rigid;
• black for standard style;
• red very soft riding.

In models of the SNS system, the brace with an elastic band is attached directly to the toe. There is also a sorting by the colors of the rubber stops. They are marked with stiffness, which divides them into:

• classic type with indicators of 85 and yellow;
• for skating equipment, red models with a hardness of 115 are suitable;
• universal types are indicated by the number 95 and have a pink-lilac tint.

Important! Both systems are great for boots of any size. The only exception is children's and junior shoes.

Secrets of selection and settings

The choice of skis is not an easy task. Two factors are taken into account here:

• physiological characteristics of the user;

The inventory has various indicators, which are selected individually for each owner.

Ski skating technique

Important! Glue containing epoxy resins is undesirable. Their impact is detrimental to the material from which the inventory is made.

Attach the device securely. There should be no system wobble. The screw is tightened tightly, but not pinched. After completing the installation, the inventory is left to dry for 12 hours.

How to choose skis for skating

When choosing equipment for skating, they rely on the basic requirements:

• the length is the user's height plus 10-15 cm;
• the weight of the skier and the level of skiing technique are taken into account. If the skill is high, then the length is selected 15 cm more than the height. Otherwise, the minimum indicators are selected;
• a special role is played by the degree of rigidity of the runners. In the case when the weight is more than normal in relation to the height of a person, then the deficiency must be compensated for by increasing the rigidity.

How to choose skis

The choice is made according to the following parameters:

1. Radius. It is determined by how steep turns are planned on the track. The smaller the radius value, the steeper you can turn around. With a radius of 17 m, the turns will be smooth.
2. Width. An indicator characterizing the level of permeability. A width of 73-85 mm is suitable for skiing on prepared slopes. In deep snow, runners with a waist width of 90 mm and above work well.
3. Alpine ski shape. The structure has a waist, toe and heel. The ratio of parameters gives different characteristics. The wide toe box in relation to the waist provides a good turn. The narrower the heel, compared to the waist, the better the runners glide along the track.
4. Rigidity. In alpine skiing, stiffness is not standardized. You can determine it only by feeling it with your own hands. Focus on the next parameter. For professionals, inventory has great rigidity.

How to choose cross-country skis

The cross-country ski option is chosen in accordance with the goal. When entertaining, it is enough to pay attention to such factors:

1. Skid geometry. The narrow ones include inventory with a width of 44 to 48 mm, and the wide ones - 48 mm or more. The wider the skis, the more stable they are.
2. Repulsion methods. Products come with and without notches. In the first case, the skis are always held, but the speed is much less. The lubricated ones have a high speed, but it is necessary to tinker well in the process of lubricating them. You also need to understand the correct selection of lubricant.
3. The weight of the inventory is determined by its design. It takes into account the geometry, the structure of the core and the materials from which they are made.
4. Length adjustment is carried out according to growth. With the correct definition, 25 cm are added to the height of the skier. The length of the sticks corresponds to the distance from the track to the armpits.

How to choose skis for a child

Depending on his age. For a three-year-old baby, inventory is short and maximum width. When a little skier is just getting on his skis, it's not about speed. At this stage, they teach to keep balance, make turns, master sliding.

Important! For the first skating, equipment is purchased with a width of 8 cm and a maximum length of 40 cm.

In the case when the child is already confidently skiing, they switch to a more sporty model. It should be a little narrower than 5 cm, and the length is commensurate with growth. It is calculated by the formula: height plus 15 cm. In adolescence, runners are acquired depending on. Significantly affects the choice and skating technique that the child prefers.

Ski bindings NNN and SNS: which ones to choose

There are two types of ski bindings in widespread use: SNS and NNN. Systems require the selection of the type of footwear. Although compatibility is possible in each of the directions. The feature is the presence of guides for fixing the mount.

Cross-country skiing devices come in different types. You can meet, and mechanical. Experienced skiers prefer SNS with a mechanical locking device. For beginners, NNN options with automatic fasteners are suitable. They are a little easier to handle, and they cost less. Plus, they fit any shoe size.

How much do ski boots and bindings cost

The cost of ski bindings depends on their purpose and material. The figure increases significantly when it comes to branded companies. The average price for bindings is 600,800 rubles, and for boots 2,4003,000 rubles. For example, Fischer ski bindings cost 2,197 rubles, including discounts.

To enjoy skiing, you need to buy high-quality equipment that protects against injury. Ski bindings are one of the most important pieces of equipment for an athlete, as they affect the handling of skis. Bindings are the so-called drive that holds the leg.

The front of the NNN attachment system is equipped with flexors made of rubber. The toe of the boot rests on them when repulsed. Ski control directly depends on the rigidity of the device. There are three types of hardness: soft, semi-hard, hard. When buying flexors for ski bindings, you need to consider the style of skiing of the athlete.

The main difference between NNN mounts and SNS mounts is the presence of protrusions for shoes located along the device. The system is equipped with two protrusions mounted opposite each other. Similar systems have only 1 ledge. On NNN equipment, the boot clamp is slightly shifted back under the toes, which increases the clarity of control when skating.

NNN mounts have the following advantages:

• compatibility with various types of boots;
• automatic and manual operation;
• a large selection of models, among which there are children's and teenage;
• low cost and good quality.

The automatic fastening of NNN has one drawback - if moisture enters, the structure freezes and ceases to function.

In SNS bindings, the boot is fixed on a longitudinal wide rail. In front of it are stops made of rubber. The rigidity of sports equipment can be changed.

There are such types of SNS system:

• Pilot - used for skating riding style;
• Profil is a universal model that is well suited for different styles (skating, classic, combined).

System advantages:

• strength and reliability;
• possibility of use for mini-skis.

Flaws:

• only suitable for certain types of shoes;
• can be used exclusively on tracks that are processed by snowcats;
• a narrow range of special shoes, which greatly complicates the choice.

Thanks to two axes, the Salomon Nordic System Pilot bindings improve the grip of the boot on the ski.

Automatic or mechanical?

Advantages of vending machines:

• easy fastening without extra effort;
• low cost.

Disadvantages of automatic devices:

• ice and snow should not be under the boot brace;
• if the place is not completely cleaned, the boots may spontaneously come unfastened;
• after skiing, the boot may not come out due to the fact that it is stuck - in this case, the boot is removed along with the equipment and warmed up in the room.

Advantages of mechanical devices:

• easy to fasten;
• Once you're done riding, the bindings can be easily unfastened, even when snow sticks.

• the price of mechanical products is higher than that of automatic ones;
• when fastening and unfastening, you need to bend down.

This type is used by professional skiers. If the budget allows, it is preferable to purchase mechanical devices, since the life of such structures is higher than that of automatic ones.

Bindings for hunting skis are made of leather. When buying such structures, it is better to consult with a specialist.

Varieties

Bindings must be selected individually for each athlete, depending on his riding style.

For alpine skiing

The device is divided into 2 parts and has plates under the toe, which reduce the friction of the boot. Lateral detachment occurs at the expense of the front, and the top - at the back.

All fixtures are the same size. For use, any company will do (Burton, Fisher, Step, Decathlon). Thule additionally produces ski racks for the car. It also sells a ski storage bracket on the wall.

Adjustment of devices for freeride depends on the weight of the person. When setting up the device, you need to take into account the experience and riding style of the athlete. When adjusting, you need to take into account the following nuances:

1. Divide the skier's weight by 10 to determine the trigger unit. Divide the skier's weight by 10. For beginner skiers, subtract 2 units from this value.
2. The maximum regulation limit is ±3 units from the result that was obtained at the beginning.
3. The amount of effort can be indicated in kilograms. Therefore, 25 kilograms must be subtracted from the weight.
4. To establish the correct fastening unit, a hint in the form of a table is needed, it can be found in the kit.

For mountain plastic skis, the following types of structures are produced:

• with manual fastening, their only drawback is the high cost;
• automatic or semi-automatic, wedged due to liquid ingress.

Hobbyists use semi-rigid or soft designs.

For cross-country skiing

The choice of devices that are used for running depends on the tracks.

There are 3 types of devices:

• NN 75.

A feature of the NN 75 standard is the spring design - 3 spikes, which are mounted on a metal plate with a spring shackle. This type is used by amateur skiers.

The advantages include:

• low price;
• the ability to use the standard version of the mounts for teaching children.

The cons include:

• difficulty in fastening and unfastening the device;
• low quality.

Despite the simplicity of the devices, the NN 75 mounts are gradually leaving the market.

SNS mounts are used by professional athletes. Manufacturers produce automatic and mechanical models.

• excellent quality;
• reliability;
• ease of use, junior models are easy to use even for a child.

• the need to purchase special shoes;
• suitable only for tracks that are processed by a snowcat;
• hard to find the right shoes.

New Nordic Norm are connected to skis in two ways:

• fastened with screws;
• put on special "sleds".

Advantages:

• a large selection of models for children and adults;
• the presence of two types of equipment;
• There are models for children and teenagers.

Among the shortcomings, they distinguish that when water enters the machines freeze.

Professional athletes use mechanical designs. For beginner skiers, it is better to choose automatic systems, as they are easier to use. Low speed of movement, small drops, flat track - all this is suitable for "automatic machines". Freezing is dangerous if a high speed develops while riding. Use the tables that are indicated in the instructions. For cross-country skis, choose semi-rigid and soft ski bindings. Men's models are distinguished by their rigidity. Such devices are produced by the Fisher company. The female versions of mounts are cartels. Installation of devices can be done by hand. Mounts for roller skis are selected individually.