SNS Pilot System
Ski bindings The SNS Pilot, promoted by Salomon, presents the skier with a rather interesting two-point boot and binding system. There is a regular cross bar (2) in the front, a bracket with a spring (1) in the back. There is one central protrusion along the mount.
This approach eliminates lateral vibrations of the boot relative to the ski, thereby increasing stability and stability.
NNN system
Rotefella's NNN ski binding system uses a single-point interface between binding and boot, using a double rubber flexor. Along the binding are two thin guides to ensure the lateral stability of the boot.
The use of a special NIS-platform for connecting the binding and the ski allows you to quickly and easily install the bindings and, if necessary, slightly shift them, depending on the technical features of a particular skier.
Comparison of SNS Pilot and NNN mounts
Lateral stability
Despite the differences in how the boot is laterally stable relative to the ski, I did not notice a significant difference. Despite the stiffer fixation in the SNS Pilot system, the feeling of riding with NNN bindings (using the Rotefella SSR Skate model) does not suggest a decrease in lateral stability.
push force
Speaking about the force of the push, it should be said about the length of the lever. SNS Pilot mounts are attached to the ski using conventional screws, and the height of the platform is a couple of millimeters. Thus, the boot is minimally raised above the ski.
The Rotefella NNN mount is mounted on the NIS platform, and the height of the mount platform itself is significantly higher than that of the SNS Pilot.
So the “higher” binding from Rotefella provides more push, because the higher binding actually increases the length of the leg, and hence the leverage.
Sustainability
Rotefella's higher NNN system binding raises the boot's center of gravity above the ski. Due to this, the stability of the skier is somewhat reduced compared to the SNS Pilot system, where the center of gravity is as low as possible.
Choice of boots
Now the bindings of the NNN system are actively promoted by ski manufacturers by installing the NIS platform on most ski models. Therefore, the choice of boots for NNN bindings is much more extensive. Top brands such as Fischer, Alpina, Madshus, Rossignol offer customers models of different professional level for every taste and budget.
When it comes to SNS Pilot mounts, the professional choice may actually be the only one - ski boots Salomon
Which mounts are better - SNS Pilot or NNN? How to choose?
Of course, the choice of mounts is a matter of taste. I, who have long completed performances in professional competitions, did not notice a fundamental difference in the use of ski bindings of one or another system. All the differences are in the details.
Therefore, I would advise you to choose a ski binding system, starting from the selection of comfortable boots. It is unlikely that this or that system will improve the results if after each workout the athlete leaves with sore legs.
My choice for this moment- Alpina ESK Elite Skate Pro ski boots and, as a result, Rotefella SSR Skate bindings of the NNN system.
What to do if it is not installed on higher skis NIS platform, and you settled on NNN mounts? The problem is solvable - which I wrote about earlier.
See you on the track next season!
Binding systems transmit power, determine the direction of the skis in any style of travel. Therefore, 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
Mounts 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.
Skis today are produced for a wide 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 selected bindings, and sometimes even special design solutions are required in the arrangement of the skis themselves, the issue with them should be addressed first.
Retro style mounts
Considered obsolete, but mounts known as NN-75. These are the devices that the parents of today's athletes used to call 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 claimed that they do not allow the use of skating (although non-professional Soviet skiers somehow managed to do this). But the fact is that this system leaves the heel unfixed.
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 the same group of bindings).
Both of these systems are distinguished by the presence of peculiar guides instead of pins (in the first case - one, in the second - two), which securely fix the foot with the help of similar grooves in the sole of the boots.
Both types of fastening are distinguished by rigidity. It is determined by the indicators of the rubber bands against which the boot rests during the push. They can be distinguished by color or applied numerical marking. Mounts SNS For skating sometimes produced with special springs instead of rubber bands.
System NNN however, it differs closer to the foot (almost under the fingers) by the location of the fixing spring, which also facilitates the movement of the “skate”.
In both of these types there are varieties that fasten automatically and require manual work. 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 novelty NIS
Another type of ski binding for cross-country skis appeared in 2005. His symbol – NIS. The difference here is not in the principle of fixing the boot, but in the approach to the idea of installing the ski bindings themselves.
They can be fastened without screws, very quickly, and also moved along the ski. There is only one problem - only skis are suitable for this, on which the appropriate platform has already been installed in the factory.
In this case, special shoes are not needed - boots with a standard sole will do.
If the athlete intends to take only the first steps on skis, he the first is better purchase equipment in accordance with the recommendations of a professional consultant.
And there is no need to strive to immediately buy all the most expensive - such equipment is intended for professionals, and completely different models and designs are suitable for beginners.
Fastening videos
Skiing - popular view sport that won the hearts of many people. But before you start such a ride, you need to prepare and choose the right equipment, which includes mounts. When buying binding systems, many are faced with the problem of choice, because they do not know what is the difference between NNN and SNS ski bindings, which ones to buy. It is impossible to say which one is better, since both types have characteristics suitable for certain riding styles.
When choosing ski structures, you need to consider: the type of track, the style of skiing, the experience of the athlete. For example, downhill skiing requires skills that are unacceptable for cross-country skiing.
Features and Benefits
NNN ski mounts feature a one-point interface, which simplifies installation and dismantling of the structure. And also on the sole are two guides that give lateral stability, preventing the boot from moving to the side. Fasteners, like boots, are: skating, classic.
NNN structures are installed on the ski platform. To properly distribute the center of gravity, you can place structures in any position. This is convenient for adjusting before riding on snow of varying density.
SNS ski bindings have one flexor guide, which is located in the middle of the sole. Pairing can be single-point, two-point. On the Pilot models, the boot is secured in two places. With this method of fastening, the separation of the sole from the platform is minimal, which allows you to better feel and control the skis.
Both systems are: mechanical, automatic. The difference in designs is that the mechanism is fastened manually, and on the machine it is enough to get into the mechanism with a groove, which even a child can handle.
Professional athletes use mechanical fasteners, since such designs do not unfasten even with intense driving. To fasten the machine, it is necessary to carefully clean the sinuses of the structure. Manuals are more expensive than automatics.
Differences between NNN and SNS mounts
Based on the structure and characteristics of the bindings, experts and professional athletes distinguish the following differences:
- Lateral stability - The presence of flexor guides provides sufficient stability for both systems, however, the Pilot models are designed to best secure the boot. To control the riding process, it is better to buy SNS bindings, but you should consult with a specialist before purchasing.
- Push - the strength of the push depends on the height of the leg during the move. NNN systems are designed to give the foot a free lift from the platform, which increases the power of the push.
- Stability - SNS bindings secure the boot to the ski more strongly, eliminating movement and slippage, giving the skier more stability.
How to choose
Before purchasing sports equipment, it is better to consult with specialists. When buying from professional sports stores, such as Decathlon, you can get the necessary information from the seller, who will help you purchase: winter skis, ski rollers. The consultant will give instructions for the operation and repair of the fasteners.
What should be based on when choosing ski equipment:
- skiing skills - for beginners and amateurs it is better to choose stable models;
- riding style - whether it will be just pleasure riding or fast cross-country riding;
- the track is, perhaps, a distance without serious obstacles or skiing on mountain slopes;
- the possibility of self-assembly of structures.
In order for sports equipment to last as long as possible, it is recommended to follow some recommendations for caring for structures:
- Together with the fasteners, you need to purchase covers for storing equipment that will protect the product from the effects of external negative factors and possible damage.
- Before you get on your skis, you need to check the correct installation of the mounting systems.
- In order for the clutch of the mechanisms to be strong and correct, the grooves must be cleared of ice and snow. If the structure becomes clogged, then during a fast ride, the clasp may come unfastened, which will lead to the fall of the skier.
- After skiing, the equipment is cleaned from the snow, dried naturally, and put into covers.
Before you start skiing, you need to take care of the equipment, because even professional sportsman is not immune to injury if he rides with a bad binding. Better spend more money and purchase branded goods that will be safer.
Published: February 5, 2016.
How to choose cross country ski boots
When choosing boots for cross-country skiing, you need to decide how often and what style you intend to run. If you plan to go skiing only a few times a season, is it worth spending serious money on equipment? And vice versa, if you plan to ski quite often or do sports at all, then you need to approach the choice of boots more seriously.
In either case, you can pick up decent and high-quality boots and bindings. In general, the price when choosing boots and bindings is far from leading role. The most important thing is that the chosen sports shoes are comfortable to run. But you should think about bindings only after you have already chosen shoes. This is because they are made for a specific type of mount.
Many companies produce models of shoes specially designed for men and women, as well as children's models. This diversity is dictated by the difference in the anatomical structure. Men's feet are much wider than women's. In addition, women's and children's shoes are made more elegant.
Since the choice of ski boots and ski bindings are interconnected, it is worth learning a little about ski bindings.
What are the bindings for skis
For felt boots, ski bindings are soft, made of leather straps. For other shoes, bindings can be semi-rigid or rigid. These have been fasteners for a very long time. And today they are no longer used for cross-country skiing. Nobody skis in felt boots today.
Today everyone skis in ski boots. But shoes are also different. After all, they are made for certain fastenings. What types are in use today?
Types of ski bindings
There are four types of ski bindings in use today:
- NN 75
Let's take a closer look at each type of attachment.
NN 75 or Nordic Norm 75, where the numbers indicate the width of the mount. This is an underutilized type of mount. It is a metal case in the form of a horseshoe with three rods - protrusions. For him, a boot with a slightly protruding sole is used. It is installed on the fastening rods, the protruding part of the sole, in which there are respectively three holes.
Then the front, protruding part of the sole is clamped with a metal bracket and latched with a special latch. A boot with such a mount does not hold tight enough on the ski and may hang out a little. It is not suitable for skating at all. But after all, some twenty years ago, it was on such bindings and boots that everyone rode.
But progress does not stand still. And a Norwegian company Rottefella improved her creation, and without further ado called it NNN, adding one more letter to the old name.
NNN or New Nordic Norm. The mount is made in the form of a plate that is attached to the ski. It has two longitudinal guides that fix the boot from lateral movement. On the sole of the boot there are two longitudinal recesses for guide fastenings. A transverse rod is mounted in the front part of the sole of the boot, with which it snaps onto the mount.
Thus, the boot is fixed in the longitudinal direction. And so that it does not hang on this rod, its front part rests against a special elastic band - an emphasis. By selecting the stiffness of this gum, you can control the stiffness of the entire mount. Rottefella fasteners are used by such well-known companies as Rossignol, Fischer, Alpina, karhu.
NlS or Nordic lntegrated System appeared in 2005 in the same company Rottefella. The mount is placed on the skis without the use of screws. However, skis must be specially prepared for this. They must have the NIS platform installed. The rest of the mounts are almost the same as the previous version.
This type of binding is used by sports equipment giants such as Rossignol, Alpina and Madshus. Accordingly, the price of such mounts is higher.
SNS or Salomon Nordic System - cross-country ski bindings developed, as the name implies, by the French company Salomon. The boot is fixed on the ski using one longitudinal guide. Ahead of the boot is fixed with a rubber stop.
The company produces 2 models of mounts: Pilot And Profile. Mounts of the first type are specialized and are intended only for use in skating. Because of this, they have two guides, and instead of rubber stops, spring ones are used. And the Profil model is universal and traditional for the company. Salomon bindings are used by Adidas, Atomic, Spine, and Salomon itself.
Which bindings for cross-country skis are better
It is impossible to say unequivocally which bindings for skis are better. But let's try to understand this issue.
The outdated NN 75 mount, although used less and less, is much cheaper than other types. And, despite its shortcomings, it still finds fans. In addition, it is often bought for children. Its price is relatively small, and a growing child will have to change shoes in a year or two.
The NIS mount is mainly used by professionals and enthusiastic athletes. This is primarily due to its price. And the benefits are not so obvious. Therefore, the most common mounts are NNN and SNS.
Ski mount NNN and SNS and their difference from each other
Both types of mounts are similar in shape to each other. There are also few fundamental differences. The main difference is that the SNS type uses one longitudinal guide while the NNN type has two longitudinal guides. For a skier, they are approximately equivalent. Both those and others are used by both professional and amateur athletes.
How to choose ski boots by size
In order for the shoes to sit comfortably on the foot, they must be correctly sized. To do this, they need to be measured. You need to measure them, wearing the socks with which they are supposed to be worn.
If the skier already has some experience, then good. If not, then when choosing socks it is better to play it safe a little. Or do you want your feet to freeze? And if not, then you can purchase thermal socks specifically for this case. And grandmother's woolen socks are also suitable. In extreme cases, you can wear several pairs of socks.
After the shoes are dressed, they are laced up. If possible, you need to walk a little back and forth. If shoes are chosen for the classics, then try to stand on your toes, as if doing a push with your foot. If shoes are selected for a skate, then place your foot with an inclination, simulating a skate course. If everything is fine and the leg is comfortable, then you can buy.
How to choose ski boots for your running style
The choice of boots and bindings also depends on whether it is supposed to be skated or classic. Different styles have different requirements for boots and bindings. So, for example, for skating, boots are made taller and stiffer. For the classics, shorter and softer. All major sports equipment companies offer both skate and classic boots.
How to choose ski boots for skating
For skating, boots are made higher. This is done in order to fix ankle joint. The skating style of running assumes that during the push the leg is placed with an inclination, and the ski is on edge. And in order not to twist the joint and reduce the load on it, it is fixed with a high boot.
Here, a thicker sole is used. The shoe itself sits more tightly on the foot. It is manufactured with anatomical structure legs. For skating, you can use boots with bindings of both types: SNS and NNN. In addition, there are combined shoes. This is something between a classic and a skate. And for fixing the ankle they use a removable cuff.
How to choose ski boots for classic skiing
Ski boots for classic move, whether it is a product from Fischer, Salomon, Alpina or another company, is slightly shorter than for skating. There is no need to fix the ankle joint. But, nevertheless, boots for the classics are made by leading companies, taking into account many requirements for skating boots.
A classic boot is a little lighter than a skate boot. They use a softer sole. Mounts are used by both SNS and NNN. Only if the preference will be given to the SNS type, a small nuance should be taken into account. Boots with Profil bindings do not fit on Pilot bindings. On the contrary, it is quite suitable. But don't forget that the Pilot is designed for skating only.
How much do ski boots and bindings cost
Modern ski boots from well-known companies are made from high-quality synthetic materials and high-quality genuine leather and down. Therefore, they are very light and warm. Accordingly, they are significantly more expensive than products of less well-known companies.
The price range is very large. This is understandable. They start from one thousand for simpler boots, up to several tens of thousands for a product for professionals. Good ones can be purchased for two to four thousand rubles. Good mounts also start from a thousand rubles and end in many thousands.
