Skis today are produced for a variety of purposes - for beginners and experienced athletes, for running or mountains.

Accordingly, the models differ in the materials from which they are made, in length and width, and necessarily in the types of fasteners.

Since the choice of ski shoes depends on the chosen bindings, and sometimes even special design solutions are required in the device of the skis themselves, the issue with them should be addressed first of all.

Retro style mounts

Considered obsolete, but still in use are bindings known as NN-75... These are the devices that the parents of today's athletes are used to calling tough.

They consist of a plate with pins and a clamping bracket. Boots for such bindings must have appropriate holes in the sole.

Such mounts are very cheap, but are gradually being replaced by other designs.

It is alleged that they do not allow the use of skating (although Soviet non-professional skiers somehow succeeded). But the fact is that this system leaves the heel unsecured.

Modern Fashion - SNS and NNN

The most common types of cross-country ski bindings today are called SNS and NNN... Each of them requires a special type of shoe, there is no compatibility between them (although it is possible within one group of bindings).

Both of these systems are distinguished by the presence, instead of pins, of a kind of guides (in the first case - one, in the second - two), which reliably fix the foot with the help of similar grooves in the sole of the boots.

Both types of attachment are distinguished by their rigidity. It is determined by the indicators of the elastic bands against which the boot rests when pushing. They can be distinguished by color or numerical markings. Mountings SNS for skating, they are sometimes produced with special springs instead of rubber bands.

System NNN it differs by the location of the fixing spring closer to the foot (almost under the toes), which also makes it easier to move with the "skate".

In both of these types there are varieties that fasten automatically and require work by hand. Experienced athletes usually choose SNS with manual fastening (they are more reliable), and beginners - NNN with automation (they are cheaper). These types of bindings are suitable for any shoe size.

Technical innovation NIS

Another type of cross-country ski bindings appeared in 2005. Its symbol is - NIS... The difference here is not in the principle of fixing the boot, but in the approach to the idea of ​​installing the bindings themselves on the skis.

They can be fastened without screws, very quickly, and can also be moved along the ski. The problem is one thing - only skis are suitable for this, on which the corresponding platform is already installed by the factory method.

In this case, no special footwear is needed - boots with standard soles will do.

If the athlete intends to take only the first steps on skis, it is better for him to acquire the first equipment in accordance with the recommendations of a professional consultant.

And there is no need to immediately strive to buy all the most expensive - such equipment is intended for professionals, and completely different models and designs are suitable for beginners.

Mount videos

When choosing mounts, it must be borne in mind that there are several standards: NN 75, NNN, Prolink, SNS Pilot and SNS Profil. After the choice of boots is made, you can proceed directly to the choice of the model of bindings. It depends on them how accurately the force is transmitted and the direction of ski sliding is set. Poor bindings can ruin the entire riding experience, even if the rest of the equipment meets the highest demands.

NN 75 (Nordic Norm, 75 mm) Is a morally outdated standard. Such fasteners are distinguished, first of all, by their low price. The toe of the boot is rigidly attached with a metal brace for the rods, but the foot is poorly fixed relative to the ski. Skating with such a mount is almost impossible. Such mounts are not represented in our store.

SNS system mounts developed by Salomon. These mounts have only one, but wide, longitudinal guide. SNS mounts are divided into two types: SNS Profil and SNS Pilot.

SNS Profil- these are universal mounts, as a rule, walking direction with one axis of attachment. SNS Profil mounts are suitable for SNS Profil and SNS Pilot boots. However, SNS Profil boots only fit SNS Profil bindings.

SNS Pilot have a more sporty orientation and have two mounting axles. SNS Pilot bindings only fit SNS Pilot boots, while SNS Pilot boots fit both SNS Pilot and SNS Profil bindings.

NNN (New Nordic Norm)and PROLINK, have two longitudinal guides for stabilizing the sole of the shoe and one axis of engagement. There are various modifications of these bindings, designed for both classic and skate riding. NNN and PROLINK mounts are fully compatible with each other.

The selection of ski equipment begins with the purchase of skis and boots that are suitable for the height, weight and skiing style of the skier. The next step is the selection of ski bindings. With the right bindings, the recreational or professional skier gets the most out of the effort. Let's tell you more about all types of cross-country ski mounts.

Types of cross-country ski bindings

Currently in use 3 types bindings for cross-country skis. All of them not compatible between themselves. Therefore, it is necessary to select them. for specific shoes... For example, if your boots are of the NNN system, then they simply will not fit into the SNS mount, and vice versa.

SNS system

Salomon nordic system- own development of a French brand Salomon... It differs from the NNN mount in that it has only one longitudinal skid, but it is 2 times wider. These models are produced under two brands: Salomon and Atomic.

There are two types of Salomon Nordic System:

• SNS Profil- a universal model with one attachment point located at the toe of the boot. Fit for all styles skating.
• SNS Pilot- a model with two fastening brackets and two flexors, which help to better control the ski. Intended for skating.

SNS flexors differ by hardness: the softest - yellow, medium - lilac-pink, red - hard.

Salomon Nordic System are highly reliable and durable. Available in automatic and mechanical versions. Children's models are also available.

NNN system

New nordic norm- fastening system developed by the Norwegian brand Rottefella... The most popular type of ski bindings. Produced by Rutefella under various brand names: Fisher, Madshus, Alpina and Rossignol. Eat like professional models and amateur... They differ from SNS by the presence of two longitudinal runners to hold control on the ski.

The boot is fixed at only one point. But the fixation bracket on the boot is not located at the toe, but slightly shifted back. This provides better ski control.

On the front of the mount there is flexor stop made of rubber, a boot rests in it with a toe when pushing off. The degree of control of the ski depends on the rigidity of the flexor; it is selected for the skiing style. For classics use softer elastic bands, for skate- more rigid. You can distinguish them by color: red flexors are the softest, black - medium hard, green - semi-hard, white - hard.

New Nordic Norm is extremely popular with both amateur and professional skiers. Manual and automatic models are available. For children, special shortened models are suitable for a small leg.

Mounts NN 75

Nordic Norm 75 mm - popular since Soviet times, a time-tested type of fastener. They work like this: the boot is installed on a metal platform so that the 3 protrusions coincide with the holes in the sole. The metal frame is lowered and fastened with a hook. This model is made more often of aluminum and alloys.

They have a number of advantages over older models:

• are inexpensive;
• ideal for beginners and schoolchildren;
• very reliable - the risk of accidental unfastening is practically excluded.

The disadvantages include:

• difficulty in fastening and unfastening;
• inconvenient for skating;
• do not confuse left and right mounts.

Which system to choose: SNS or NNN?

There is no particular difference between these two types of mounts. You just need match them to specific ski boots and riding style. If you plan to move skate style, stop at SNS Pilot. For lovers entry-level automatic NNN mounts will do.

Automatic or mechanical: which is better?

When they decided on the type of fastener, another question arises: choose automatic or mechanic?

Any professional will definitely choose mechanical type... At high speed and high repulsion force, there is a risk of accidental release of the ski. This can lead to serious injury. Mechanical fasteners completely eliminate such a risk, therefore, professional skiers choose them for training and competitions. In operation, they are inconvenient in that you have to bend down each time to fasten or unfasten them.

For amateur riding at a walking speed, they are suitable automatic fastening. They are much more convenient to use. To fasten them, it is enough to step on the groove in the lock with the toe of your boot. Unbuttoning is even easier - you need to press the button at the base of the boot. You can even do this with a stick if you don't want to bend over. So that the skis do not unfasten at the most inopportune moment, choose proven models of well-known companies.

Mechanical fasteners cost much more expensive automatic cousins, therefore not so popular among hobbyists. Everyone decides for himself what to choose - mechanics or automatic. Remember that you should only choose models from trusted manufacturers: Fisher, Rottefella, Salomon, Rossignol, Atomic. When buying an unknown brand of mounts, there is a risk of sudden snap off - this could lead to injury.

Installing ski mounts

When buying a ski kit, shops often offer free bindings.
But it is possible to install ski bindings on your own at home. The video will help you do it right.

Racing standards SNS, NNN, SNS Pilot and NIS - now they are used not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. Do you personally need them, taking into account your tasks? What are the comparative advantages of SNS, NNN and their modifications SNS Pilot and NIS?

Do you personally need SNS and NNN mounts?

• Yes, if you are improving the style. In this case, you will benefit from good control over the skis and the ability to adjust the stiffness of the connection between the boot and the ski.
• Not if skiing for you is not a training session, but a walk, and if you do not go skating. In this case, they have more disadvantages than advantages - the durability is less, and the boots must be changed before skiing. Choose the inexpensive and reliable Nordic 75 mounts.

How are SNS and NNN different?

The fixtures of these two standards are as similar to each other as two refrigerators. Consider this as a warning: not all stores are competent and you may be sold, for example, SNS bindings and NNN boots that are incompatible with each other. You can distinguish them by turning the boot towards you with the sole. In SNS, the boot has one wide groove, along the entire sole from toe to heel. The NNN has two narrower grooves. The mount itself looks like a plastic strip with a longitudinal ridge and a lock in the front. SNS has one crest, NNN has two.

In terms of technical qualities, here both systems are approximately equal. According to reviews, NNN has a slightly better ski control, especially when skating style. However, in the SNS standard, in addition to the basic version of SNS Profil, there is a "professional" SNS Pilot, which has not one metal clip on the boot, but two. She is not inferior to NNN.

NNN has a version of NIS. There is a mounting plate on the ski, on which the mount is placed, with the possibility of back and forth adjustment. Pros: no need to drill the ski when mounting the mount; you can very precisely balance the ski in length. Now SNS is also sold in versions for the NIS mounting plate.

In terms of reliability, in SNS, the clip on the boot is located closer to the toe and wears out faster if you walk on the asphalt in boots, and in NNN the mounts themselves are more fragile and prone to impacts and chips.

Choice according to the rule "price-convenience"

In fact, neither SNS nor NNN have decisive advantages. Both standards are equally popular with ski stars. It is much more important to choose the right footwear. The second subtlety: depending on the season and the store, the price of SNS and NNN boots and bindings can vary greatly, and it is important to estimate the price of the set. So:

1. Start by determining the price you are willing to pay for the kit. It may turn out that NNN bindings are cheaper than SNS, and you can fit more "advanced" boots for the same price, or vice versa.

2. Measure all shoes of both standards that fall within this price. The most comfortable boots will determine your choice of bindings.

CCM in winter eventing. Creator of ProSki, an online cross-country ski training program. She shares her experience in articles and blogs on social networks, motivates her to go in for sports by personal example. Ski poles in hand have become an integral part of his life. Egor in In contact with and Instagram.

Winter is approaching. During this period, half of the runners will ski to diversify their workouts. Sneakers will be replaced by ski boots, and ski poles will be in hand. How to choose equipment to feel like a skier? Deciding on the choice of bindings and boots together with Egor Myshkov, CCM in winter triathlon, creator of the ProSki online cross-country skiing training program.

We'll start by determining which boot attachment system we will use. There are two of them: SNS and NNN. This year, another one, similar to NNN, was added to them - TURNAMIC. Let's consider in detail each type.

SNS PROFILE. The most popular system until 2010. The fastening design has a wide projecting strip along its entire length. There is a wide indentation in the sole of the shoe. The mechanism for fixing the boot and fastening is simple: automatic or mechanical. The photo below shows the mechanical version. On the automatic one, we need to force the boot brace into the place where the elastic is. The rubber insert provides a springy, responsive kick. To unfasten from such an attachment, we will need to press down on the button located in front of the elastic band with our finger.

SNS PILOT. Now, elasticity is not required for elastic work, the boot contact and attachment system has been changed: one more bridge has been added on the boot. It clings to an additional bracket located closer to the center of the mount. This system works like a spring: after pushing with the foot, the ski returns faster to the sole of the boot. Due to this, the speed and frequency of leg work increases. Fixing the boot is carried out only in the mechanical version.

NNN. The difference between NNN and SNS is that there are two thin rails on the mount. The sole of the boot has two narrow grooves, the boot is fastened with one brace. The contact surface of the sole of such a system is larger, the ski feels and controls better than with the SNS.

Note: Prolink. This is the same NNN system, only released as an addition to the Salomon boots. Boots with the NNN system will also fit these bindings.

TURNAMIC. The sole of the boot will be similar to the SNS sole, and the fastening will remain the same as on the NNN.

Conclusion

The SNS and SNS PILOT mounts were created by SALOMON. It so happened that the shoes of this company, regardless of the model, were created warm. For some, this is a minus, since they feel like felt boots on their feet. The control of the ski is weak. The top models don't have this problem, since they are made of carbon fiber: it is lightweight and durable. The outsole is thicker than the NNN, due to the protruding part of the binding. The choice should, first of all, be based on personal feelings. The shoe pads are different for each manufacturer, so you need to compare and choose the option that is convenient for you.

SKI BOOT CONSTRUCTION

It is easier to start mastering cross-country skiing with skating. The classic move assumes the presence of holding ointments under the ski block. To choose them correctly for the weather, you need experience, otherwise the skis will slip back. Skating is ideal for beginners. The mechanics of movement are similar to skating or rollerblading.

Skating boots should have a rigid cuff that fixes the position of the ankle: it will become easier to keep control of the ski. The sole does not have to be flexible; the rigidity of such boots is justified. When moving from foot to foot, it is necessary to maintain balance and control the movement of the ski. The cuff helps guide the ski and prevents twisting in the foot.

The price of the boots will depend on the materials they are made from. Carbon fiber details will add strength and lightness to the boot construction at the same time as the price. Lightweight models are made for competitive athletes and have a high degree of rigidity. For beginners, it may just be uncomfortable to ride in these boots.

Below are the ski boot models that I like best in terms of functionality.

Fischer Carbonlite Skate or RC7 Skate. Comfortable boot construction. Optimal rigidity for comfortable training and competition. The difference between the models is that the RC7 does not have a carbon structure, which means it is heavier.

Fischer Carbonlite Skate

Boots for advanced amateurs. Lightweight and durable 3D plastic cuff. They are similar in design to the upper models, but more comfortable for regular workouts.

Spine Carera Carbon Pro and Concept Skate Pro. I would like to mention this Russian company. Their price will be 2 times cheaper than the previous ones, and they are created based on our weather conditions. These are warm boots. The quality is approaching the level of world brands. There are only drawbacks in terms of the service life of individual parts of the boot. If you are just starting out on your ski trip, then this is a suitable budget option.

In the next part, we'll talk about choosing the length of skis and poles. Cross-country skiing develops all muscle groups, and walking in the frosty air hardens your body and saturates it with oxygen.

Love skiing! Get on your skis!