Knowing how to install a ski mount is important for amateur and professional skiing. The convenience and safety of using the equipment depends on this. Let's consider the main nuances of this important aspect.
General information
The modern market offers the widest range of skis for various types skating They differ in manufacturer brands, purpose, price category and material. Not all beginners know how to install ski bindings? In principle, this work can be entrusted to specialists. However, this will require additional financial investments and time. In fact, it is quite possible to figure out this technology on your own.
Design features
The ski locking device is designed to securely hold the heel and front head of the boot. In this case, appropriate design adjustments must be made, affecting the safety of operation of the equipment. When adjusting the bindings, the athlete’s anthropometric data are taken into account.
The element itself is equipped with special pins designed to fix the boot. In addition, the package includes a set of brackets and bends that prevent the leg from slipping, ensuring free movement within the structure. Knowing how to properly install a ski mount for boots will ensure maximum comfort when skiing, regardless of the purpose of the device and other factors. It is worth noting that in the heel part, modern clamps are very elastic, reduce the level of vibrations and maximize ease of use.
Types of fastenings
Modern retainers are divided into three main categories:
- Welt fastening type Nordic Norm 75 mm. Its advantage is its affordable price, despite the fact that the technical parameters leave much to be desired. The support of the foot is not very good, the rigid design does not provide full control of the toe of the boot, the sole often slides due to the lack of sufficient lateral and longitudinal stability. The skating style, like the classic version, will not give you much pleasure.
- Innovative instances of NNN and SNS type. To know how to install a mount on skis of these types, you need to remember that they are a design with the highest possible performance parameters. Such systems operate using systems of flexors and guide elements, which greatly simplify the task of installing elements. The sole of the boots fits firmly and comfortably on such equipment; additional stabilization in any riding style allows you to feel confident and make the process of moving easier.
More information about NNN and SNS systems
The fixation class of such devices belongs to the tourist category, often equipped with automatic latches. This option is ideal for beginners. The differences between the NNN and SNS systems lie in the presence of two longitudinal constituent elements in the first category (the SNS variation is equipped with one analogue).
To know how to properly install the mount on your skis, you should remember that the difference between the cross-country and mountain versions lies in minor details that fix the boots directly to the equipment. Therefore, the main emphasis should be placed on the choice of shoes. Sports boots must correspond to the riding mode, be comfortable to wear and have a distinctive design. Then you can start fixing them.
How to properly install a binding on cross-country skis?
Initially, proper drilling work needs to be done. This work is done using a special device that allows you to set the areas for processing as accurately as possible.
When drilling, select the appropriate drill diameters, each of which is suitable for a specific type of ski. Among them:
- 9.5 * 4.1 mm - for metal surfaces.
- 9.5 * 3.5 mm - for wood and its analogues.
- 7.0 * 3.5 mm - for juniors and beginners. Typically, the thickness of such equipment is less than that of adult professional modifications.
After all the necessary holes have been drilled, a little special glue is added to the slots on the canvas, after which they begin to install the fastener. The screws should fit tightly into place, without play or displacement.
How to install a mount on skis of mountain modifications?
This operation is performed in several stages:
- The center of gravity of the skis is located, which is outlined by a line.
- The clamps are placed in such a way that the front part of the structure aligns with the edge of the drawn mark.
- The boot is carefully inserted into the mount, ensuring that its base is centered. This is one of the important points in the arrangement of bindings for alpine skis.
- After “trying on” the boot is removed, and additional sockets for self-tapping screws are made through the holes in the place where it is placed. This can be done using an awl. And the fasteners are fixed using a screwdriver or screwdriver.
- Next, the boot is securely fixed thanks to the holes made. Strict adherence to the instructions will allow you to achieve a tight fit to your leg, the desired level of shock absorption, rigidity and safety.
The presented guide will provide an opportunity to understand the features of fixing ski bindings aimed at overcoming mountain and steep snow-covered slopes.
Mountain bracing equipment is only suitable for climbing slopes and steep sections of trails. Running on such skis will be uncomfortable, difficult and ineffective. Such equipment has completely different dimensional parameters and technical indicators. In addition, reliable and competent installation of clamps is a guarantee of comfort and safety.
It was also discussed above how to install the mount on cross-country skiing. This type of equipment is designed for skating and classic running. But this does not mean that the installation of shoe clamps can be done poorly. This type of sport is associated with many health risks and requires a careful and responsible approach at all stages, including the selection and adjustment of bindings.
How to properly install the binding on skis?
Popular wisdom: "Seven measure once, cut once"
1. SNS and NNN mounts can also be used to find the center of gravity. We use the flat side, like a ruler, and place the end side on the floor. We place the ski perpendicularly from above like a scale, moving it longitudinally to achieve balance. With a weighted binding, it is measured by attaching the binding to the ski, while ensuring that the axis of the center of gravity passes through the locking groove of the boot, moving the ski and the binding itself along.
2. Having found the center of gravity, mark perpendicular vertical lines on the ends of the skis on both sides of the mount to the upper side of the ski and connect them. This can be done using a square, although an error of up to two millimeters is acceptable for this length of skis. After this, we perform the same procedure with the second ski.
3. There is no difference between the boots of the new model with fastening directly at the front edge and the old model, where the fastening is on the ledge - for both, the axis of the center of gravity is located at the front edge of the boot. It turns out that in old boots the protrusion extends beyond the axis of the center of gravity. The planned running style also does not matter. The main thing is that when suspended, the ski does not weigh either in front or behind. The only exceptions are skiers with experience, who, to “increase speed,” shift them slightly back from the axis of the center of gravity. But putting this into practice requires experience.
4. Modern ski bindings types SNS and NNN have a transverse groove for fixing the metal rod of the boot in the front part. This groove must be aligned with the drawn axis of the center of gravity. Directly below the groove in the center there is a longitudinal groove. The middle fastening element is then inserted into it. Its lower bottom part coincides with the center of the rod, and we combine it with our marked line on the upper side of the ski.
5. First you need to unscrew all three screws that are not completely screwed in from the fastening. If the automatically latching SNS Profile Auto is closed, and you cannot get to the third screw, then you need to press the bracket (the latch will move inward), after which you need to insert a thick screwdriver or other suitable tool to prevent the latch from returning. Then we fold back the bracket to gain access to the screw. A similar procedure is carried out to remove the binding from skis.
6. Next comes fitting to the skis according to the marks and marking future holes in the center using an awl. After removing the fasteners, you need to check the middle mark exactly in the middle using a caliper or tape measure. The two back holes should be equally distant from the edges. To make corrections, use an awl to make new marks deeper.
7. Before drilling, we advise you to play it safe and check the depth of the screw entry so as not to pierce the ski through. We subtract the mounting height and try the rest on the ski. If the ski is thin and the length of the standard screws is excessive, then you need to replace them with screws of the required length.
8. On the drill, mark the depth of the planned hole by winding insulating tape if there is no ruler on the drill. The drill bit should have a diameter of 3.6 to 4 mm depending on the thickness of the screws. Then we carefully drill six holes on the entire pair of skis. Why carefully, because today skis have a fiberglass honeycomb filling under a few millimeters of wooden insert for bindings. Therefore, the drill, despite the limiters made of insulating tape or a ruler, can easily slip through under pressure. Do not put pressure on the drill while drilling. The skis must first be pressed with your foot or secured with a clamp to avoid the spring factor. It is necessary to drill strictly vertically, without distortions, without rocking the drill, achieving a clear shape of the holes.
9. Having drilled three holes for each ski, remove the plastic brackets that unfasten the skis, attach the fasteners to them with screws, having previously tightened them no more than halfway, this will make alignment easier. Then using a screwdriver we tighten them with a little force, there is still a certain risk of tearing them off. Checking the tightness of the connection. Nothing should be loose.
Note: Do not use glue as it is only suitable for wooden skis, and most of them negatively affect modern internals. A thick six-millimeter screw tightly closes the hole and prevents moisture from entering. And the edges of the screws have time to wear off before anything can rot inside the ski.
10. Reinstall the removed bracket by inserting the lower end into the loop, then pressing the bracket down firmly until it clicks. Carefully! Don't get your fingers pinched. Next, we assemble the fastening elements, first removing the screws - there are two in the middle element, and one in the last one. We install the elements end-to-end, covering the previous screws. We mark the holes in the same way with an awl, remove the elements, drill, fasten the screws, installing the fastening elements end-to-end until they stop. After screwing the last “thrust bearing”, the hole is closed with a plug.
Good luck on the ski track!
Ski trips- a favorite type of winter recreation. Even an inveterate lover of hot summer will not refuse to breathe fresh air in a snowy forest. What can we say about those who cannot imagine their life without skis!
It should be noted that currently skiing in our country actively developing, and the stores offer a wide range of equipment for different types. Some people prefer cross-country skiing, and some, on the contrary, love leisurely walks. There are also those who find the flat terrain boring and ski from the mountains. It should also be mentioned tourists who travel winter hiking on skis.
For all these activities needed different types skis, and the higher the level of the athlete, the more stringent his requirements for equipment. The smallest nuances are taken into account, which beginners and amateurs may not even be aware of.
In the available variety of skis and related sports, everyone can choose the most suitable one for themselves, and ordinary cross-country skis will surely win the palm.
Still, fans skiing you have to look for places where you can ski, but amateur ski tourism is not for everyone. But treadmills can be used in the nearest park or forest, and do it at least every weekend. Those who are especially adventurous can even take part in some local competitions!
So, to diversify your winter leisure, just buy the necessary clothes and equipment: skis, poles and bindings. It’s worth dwelling on them in more detail.
Ski bindings and their types
Fastenings– this is very important element ski design. They transmit forces from the leg to the ski and set the direction of sliding. The older generation probably remembers grandfather’s models: a belt clamp was attached to the ski, which secured the leg at the back with an elastic band. The only advantage of such “inventions” is that they could be worn on any shoes, even felt boots. And if we compare the described samples with modern ones, then the importance of the role of fastenings will be completely obvious: they provide comfort and stability at any move.
Three main types of cross-country ski bindings:
Nordic Norm 75mm, or the so-called welted. This is an outdated model that is gradually falling out of use. Connoisseurs of such antiques and the extremely low price prevent them from finally saying goodbye to it.
NNN system from Roteffella appeared later and has two longitudinal guides that stabilize the boot. In terms of functionality, it is in no way inferior to the previous version.
SNS system from Salomon, with one longitudinal guide. This is a modern fastening standard high level. The soles of boots for such fastenings allow the foot control the ski during any move.
The last two systems are now the most popular, but there are no obvious advantages or disadvantages compared to each other, so you can choose any. In terms of price, they will cost more than NN75, but they are much more convenient and practical, and You can save on installation these fasteners. Usually the instructions recommend seeking help from specialists, but it is quite possible to perform such an operation on your own. All you need is a little confidence and the right tools:
- Skis and bindings;
- Template for marking;
- A screwdriver with a blunt Phillips bit and drill bits;
- Ruler;
- Marker;
- PVA glue.
- Awl;
Procedure for installing fasteners
For all types of bindings, you first need to find the center of gravity of the skis. On some models, the manufacturer has already marked this place, but usually it is advised not to trust the factory branding. Such balancing is necessary for normal comfortable riding, when the ski does not “weigh” in any direction. Finding the center of gravity done very simply. You need to place the ski on the edge of, for example, a ruler, and move it along it until the “scales” freeze parallel to the floor. The ruler in this case will indicate the center of gravity, which will need to be marked with a marker.
So, the desired point has been found. U modern models the center of gravity line coincides with the axis of the boot bracket attachment, so you need to attach the front part of the attachment to the ski and mark it with a marker correct position . If it is necessary to install Nordic Norm 75, then there should be two screws of the fastening bracket on the marked line. In other words, you need to place the device so that there is an edge on the balance line thumb legs.
An important step is marking the holes. For him, the ideal option would be to use a special jig, which allows you to accurately find the position of the fasteners. If there is no such conductor, then A paper template will also work, which is usually supplied with fastenings. If this is not there, you will have to mark the ski with an awl through the holes in the mount attached to it. By the way, since the fastening consists of elements that move relative to each other, you should use it in assembled form for marking, so that later there will be no mismatch in size.
Check for self-control. A drilled ski cannot be restored back, so an extra check will not hurt. Having measured the distance between the holes on the mount, you need to compare them with similar parameters on the finished marking.
Drilling holes according to the marks made. Usually the instructions indicate to what depth the screws need to be drilled, and what length and diameter the drill should be. If there is no suitable length, you can take any and wrap it with electrical tape on top, leaving only the necessary millimeters. Using a drill at low speeds, you need to drill holes in the marked places.
Filling with glue. Blow the finished holes to remove dust and fill them with glue. Sometimes it may come complete with fasteners, but if it is not there, then simple PVA will do. This will help fill cracks formed during drilling, waterproof and provides more reliable fixation. Sometimes it is recommended to use epoxy for this purpose, but it is better not to do this, since the solvents in the resin can damage the ski. By the way, there is an alternative opinion that claims that glue is not needed, but everyone will decide for themselves. In any case, this is not difficult to do, and the glue will not interfere.
Assembly of the structure. You need to attach the mount to the ski again and start tightening the screws, first not completely, to make sure that the installation is even, and only then finally, so that there are no backlashes. For NN 75 you will have to first insert the boot and check its alignment on the ski. Wait for the glue to dry. After the fasteners are installed, you need to wait another 10-12 hours for the glue to completely dry.
This video explains in detail how to install the SNS mounts.
Installing ski bindings yourself is doable. The main thing is to have self-confidence and the right tools.
If you or your family members decide to spend your vacation profitably, then skiing is the best choice. Such exercises develop not only muscles, but also joints, endurance, improve immunity and have a beneficial effect on blood vessels. In stores you can buy skis with bindings included, but people with experience advise installing them yourself, especially since you may need experience installing them in the future. You can always replace the fasteners if you prefer a different type or if they break. In this article you will learn more about the types of fasteners and how to replace them.
Types of ski bindings
Based on your skiing style and goals, you need to choose one of three types of ski bindings:
- The most modern ski mounts are called system mounts. You don’t need to delve into how they work, just know that with them you don’t have to bother with buckles, elastic bands, and staples. Their installation is quite simple and does not take much time.
- The second type is called “hard” or “75 millimeters”. Many people might have seen this type of binding at school if there were skis in physical education classes. The bottom line is that the boot is attached to the skis using a special bracket - a clamp. It firmly holds the toe of the boot, and the bracket itself, in turn, is the fastening. It is now believed that the rigid system is a relic of the past. Indeed, many of us will attest to this, remembering the eternally untwisted staples and the slipping of the boot.
- The third type of fastening is “semi-rigid”. These are all kinds of elastic bands, ties, and flagella to which your shoe is tied. Relevant for children's skis, since a child's feet grow very quickly, and it is difficult to buy suitable boots for them. If you decide to teach your child to ride, then the rubber band system will be just right.
Once you have purchased the mounts that suit you, you can begin installation.
What tools are needed to install ski bindings?
First of all, you must have a tool called a conductor. This tool can be different and its cost has a large amplitude, however, without it it will be very difficult to find the right balance on skis. With it you will find exact places for drilling and installing fasteners.
- You need a conductor.
- A marker that can then be washed off with water.
- Drills.
- Electric drill.
Depending on the type of fastening, you may need 35 mm or 60 mm drills; check this point in advance in the instructions or in the store.
The process of installing bindings on skis
First, you should learn a little trick on how to find precise balance on your skis. You just need to take one of them in your hands and place it on some thin or sharp object, and then quietly move the ski until its end and rear end will not align and the ski will not begin to balance. Mark this location with a marker. The principle is similar to how a person tries to hold a pen on his finger, which constantly falls in one direction or the other.
- Now place your skis on the floor, making a balance mark.
- Attach a jig to one ski. Carefully align the balance lines on the jig and the ski.
- Take a drill with an appropriate drill bit and make a hole for the fasteners, guided by the jig.
- Screw the fasteners.
- Repeat with the second ski.
If you still don’t have a jig, then you can use this value as a guide: the ski mounting hinge should be both at the point of balance and at the end of the big toe. This will give you an approximate location for your mounts.
More experienced runners know that sometimes the bindings can be moved a little forward, then such skis will already be called “skate”. Experiment with styles and you will find a more convenient way for yourself.
Both at a professional and amateur level, it is perhaps one of the most popular winter pastimes for a huge number of people. Some people prefer to actively relax at the nearest rental point for this sports equipment, while others purposefully go to famous ski resorts, basically, for the same thing.
What determines the choice of fastening?
Of course, one of the main roles in high-quality and enjoyable skating is played by the equipment itself. The range of skis today is very large, and they differ both in manufacturer brands and in their purpose (cross-country, mountain, jumping). The price range is also wide, so you should immediately decide on the amount planned for purchase.
Sometimes lovers of winter skiing are faced with a very serious problem. How to properly install bindings on skis? You can entrust the installation process to specialists, but if you want to save some financial resources and simply gain additional experience, you should understand the technology of this work yourself.
What does a ski binding consist of?
The design of this element, which is designed to ensure safety, includes a heel and a front head, which must be adjusted in accordance with the parameters of a particular person (weight, shoe size, etc.).
On the mount itself there are special pins, the function of which is to fix the boot. There are also special brackets and bends that allow the leg to move freely inside, but prevent it from slipping. Usually these elements are shaped like the toe of a boot, which cannot but have a positive effect on the comfort of riding.
The heel of the mount is designed to provide the skier with safety during falls. In modern samples, this ability is called vertical elasticity. In addition, with the help of this part of the fastening the level of vibrations entering the boot is significantly reduced.
How to ensure installation of the retainer?
So, proper ski mounting is accomplished in part by proper drilling. This should not be done by eye or using marks. Often you can purchase a special conductor from the manufacturer, thanks to which a good result will be guaranteed.
For making holes, there is a large selection of drills, each of which is suitable for one or another type of ski: section 4.1x9.5 mm - for metal coatings, 3.5x9.5 - for wooden surfaces, and 3.5x7 mm will be a good solution for junior sports equipment whose thickness is less than that of adult models.
After drilling all the necessary holes in the ski surface, a small amount of glue is added to each of them, and then the mount itself is mounted. The screws should fit tightly, without moving.
This information may be useful when thinking about how to install a binding on your skis.
Cross-country skis: installing bindings
It is these elements that allow you to clearly transmit forces and set the direction of sliding when moving both in the classical style and in skating. It is very important to focus on how to properly install bindings on cross-country skis, since without this knowledge, even well-chosen equipment will not only not bring absolutely no joy from skiing, but can also expose the owner to serious danger.
Categories of cross-country ski holders
Currently, there are three types of fastenings for equipment of this type, so each one should be disassembled separately.
One of them is the outdated Nordic Norm 75mm, called “welt” by the masses. Its main advantage is its relatively low price, but otherwise its technical characteristics leave much to be desired. It does not fix the foot well and, despite the rigid fastening of the toe of the boot, the entire sole slides due to insufficient lateral and longitudinal stability. The skating style of running in this case is practically impossible, and the classic style comes out little better. Such installation of fasteners will not bring the owner pleasure from riding, so attention should be paid to the other two types of fasteners.
These samples belong to models of a new, innovative generation. These include SNS system and the NNN system.
It will be quite difficult to compare these two mounts as each is an extremely high performance device.
The operation of these two systems is based on the technology of using flexors and guides, which greatly simplifies the task of how to install fasteners. On skis with such clamps, the sole of the boot fits firmly and comfortably, and the additional stabilization during classic skiing gives a feeling of confidence and greatly facilitates the process of movement.
Functional features of the SNS and NNN fastening systems
The level of fixation of each of these two samples is touring, sometimes even equipped with automatic fastening. This option is perfect for amateur skiers whose skiing skills are not yet very well developed.
The SNS system appeared a little earlier, and its main difference is that the fastening design includes only one longitudinal component, while the NNN type has two.
It's no secret that the main difference between cross-country and alpine skiing is the connection of the boots of the former with one or another type of binding. And since the differences between the two above-mentioned systems are quite insignificant, the emphasis here should be placed exclusively on the choice of shoes. Having decided how to properly install bindings on your skis, you should choose boots that will match your skiing style and have unique comfort and design, and only then figure out the standard of their fixation.
Alpine ski bindings
This type of sports equipment is suitable, as the name suggests, only for skiing on the slopes. Such skis are not suitable for running, since they have different length and width parameters, and also differ from other models in their technical characteristics. But, one way or another, it is extremely important to know how to install bindings on skis of this type, since descents from the peaks require higher level safety, which can only be ensured by securely fixing the entire structure on the leg.
Installation procedure for mountain ski bindings
To avoid poor-quality work results, all actions for equipment of this type must be performed strictly according to the following instructions:
1. A line is drawn at the center of gravity of the ski, which you can find with your own hands.
2. The fastener is laid so that its front edge reaches exactly the drawn mark. The shoe is carefully inserted into the clamp, which is adjusted so that its entire base is located in the center, since only in this case the installation of fastenings on alpine skiing will be correct.
3. Then the boot is removed, and at its location small holes are made through the holes in the latch, which can be made with an awl or a drill with a cross-section of 1.5-2 mm in diameter. Next, use a screwdriver or screwdriver to tighten the screws included in the kit.
4. The boot is tightly secured in the holes made. In this case, it is important to follow the entire algorithm of actions so that at the end of all the work the latch is moderately rigid, fits the leg comfortably and meets all the requirements of safety standards when skating.
This instruction will help you understand how to properly install bindings on skis intended for riding on mountains and steep slopes.
