Types of ski bindings. Ski bindings NNN and SNS: which ones to choose? Installing ski bindings

04.05.202127.05.2017

Boots are no less important for a skier than the skis themselves. The wrong shoes will prevent you from fully enjoying your ride or making progress in your training.

The most best skis You won’t be happy if you have to experience pain in your foot or leg muscles from poorly chosen shoes.

Ski boots must meet two main criteria:

be comfortable;
With maximum speed and accurately transfer force to the ski.

All produced models are divided into:

running;
skiing

According to the level of professionalism, they are conditionally divided into three types:

amateur;
expert;
sports.

Differ:

size;
rigidity;
weight;
level of skating (from models for beginners to professional);
skiing style (for skiathlon, skating, classic, universal, slalom, freeride, carving);
type of fastening (NNN, SNS).

For ski models additionally:

the presence of customizable regulators (for individual fit);
lacing method;
material of the clips (metal ones are considered priority, as they are stronger and more durable than plastic ones).

Every class ski boots has men's, women's and children's models in its line.

How to choose ski boots

Properly selected boots can be used without loss of performance for 5-8 years, although skiing It is believed that equipment loses 50% of its original cost in the first year of operation.

Among additional functions ski models may have:

lever for changing the “ride - walk” modes;
special “tongue” for easy putting on;
thermoformed inner boot;
anatomical insole (in the sports shoe fitting workshops that exist at all ski resorts, you can order the production of a personal insole to improve comfort and more precise control of skis);
insoles with electric heating (protect feet from freezing, powered by a battery located on the boot).

Before choosing ski boots, you need to clearly determine:

foot size;
level of training and skill;
riding style;
financial opportunities.

When choosing ski models, it is important to pay attention to:

Rigidity– or FI (Flex Index) – one of the main parameters. The highest rigidity is found in models for professional speed skating (FI=130-200), which are equipped with 4 clips that securely grip the leg at significant points.

For beginners, soft boots (FI=50-70) with 2 clips are available, the tightness of the fit is adjusted with lacing and a belt. Models of medium hardness and soft have a “tongue” for ease of putting on.

Rigid boots take last place in terms of comfort, but are the best in accuracy and speed of force transfer to the ski, which is important when skiing at high speed.

The stiffness index is often indicated in the model name. For example, in the Atomic Hawx 100 model the stiffness index is 100.

Size- determined by the size of the inner boot, which should fit the foot. The modern market offers models with different lasts, the width of which is 95-106 mm. Narrower models (95-98 mm) are intended for professional skiers.

In specialized stores, the buyer is asked to measure the length and width of the foot using special stands. The length of the foot is measured under load - with knees bent.

In this position, the human foot increases to 12 mm in width and 5 mm in length. A normal boot is a little tight when you try it on, but as you ride, all models squeeze into your foot. The main requirement is that the shoes must fit the foot tightly throughout.

Weight– important when climbing uphill; sports models are heavier.

Sole length(base) is indicated separately and does not match the size. The setting of the fasteners depends on this parameter.

Customizable controls– with their help, the shoe is adjusted to the foot. Boots for beginners have a minimum of adjustments.

Main regulators:

Clips - can be of three types: made of high-strength plastic (budget models and for beginners), combined (plastic + metal), metal (professional models).

Installed with or without special tools. Provide precise adjustment of ankle fixation, while reducing pressure on the leg.

Canting - adjusting the cuff inward or outward depending on the structure of the legs.
Belt – fixes the girth of the boot: the wider it is, the more reliable the fixation. Depending on the class of the model, the width is 30-50mm.
Switch for the degree of rigidity of the outer boot (hard-soft), increasing or decreasing control accuracy. The higher the stiffness, the more precise the control.
The “walk-roll” regulator facilitates leg movements while walking.
Inner boot – in most cases modern models moldable. Expensive models are made of innovative material that takes the shape of the leg (after heating it with hot air) after 15 minutes.

These boots can be quickly adjusted to suit another user.

Mounting type– there must be full compliance with the ski fastening system.

Female models can be identified by a lower position of the cuff and a stronger forward tilt. The form is selected taking into account the features female figure. In terms of hardness, you can purchase from super-soft to hard.

When choosing cross-country ski shoes, pay attention to:

size;
professionalism class;
material of manufacture;
the presence of a heel stabilizer;
fastening type.

There are two main types of cross-country ski bindings:

NNN – two protrusions (stops) for fastening, located in parallel, into which the toe rests when pushed, the lock is located under the fingers, 4 options for rigidity. Developed by Rottefella (Norway), suitable for all models except children's.
SNS – one protrusion in the center for resting the toe when pushing and two brackets for fixing shoes, 3 options of rigidity, developed by Salomon from France.

It is better to purchase ski boots from the same manufacturer as the skis.

When choosing ski boots, you can ignore:

Year of release – all leading manufacturers update their collections annually. However, new models are much more expensive. You can purchase a model from last season or the season before last, which in terms of its characteristics will be no worse than the new one.
Outer boot design – all modern ski models have a beautiful design.
Color design.

Rossignol X-IUM Premium Skate(carbon sole and heel, central zipper for a tight fit, high cuff, Spain).
Salomon S-Lab Skate Pro(for professionals, lightweight, loose heel, carbon fiber reinforced sole, France).
Fischer RCS Carbonlite Skating(for professionals, lightweight last, additional fastener above the foot, protective polyurethane mesh, Austria).
Alpina ESP Pro(for experts, one-piece carbon cuff, waterproof sealed zipper, asymmetrical lacing, carbon fiber stabilizer, Slovenia).

One of the skating styles that got its name due to the similarity of the skater’s movement, in which push-off occurs with both legs. IN skiing used for overclocking.

Ski boots for this style should:

eliminate foot dangling;
ensure its improved fixation;
provide the most effective push.

They have increased rigidity and should cover the ankle in height to prevent injuries. They are selected strictly according to size, taking into account the structural features of the leg.

Modern skating models have:

removable or stationary carbon cuff connected to the sole to secure the leg;
carbon fiber leg stabilizer;
inner boot ventilation system;
one-piece top without seams or with a sealed zipper at the top for ease of dressing and a snug fit on the leg;
heel support and anatomical insole;
internal insulation;
lacing (in some models asymmetrical for a tighter fit to the foot).

Women's models are slightly lower and wider in the calf area, have a higher heel and an increased angle of inclination.

Made from:

soft skin;
artificial frost-resistant materials.

They are produced mainly for bindings with the NNN system, which provides more effective control over the ski in this style than SNS. For children's and youth skis, boots are available with NN75 binding.

Pros:

increased resistance to injury;
light weight;
easy to put on the leg.

Cons:

are used only for skating.

Salomon Escape 7(for tourism, diagonal zipper to protect against snow and ice, thermoformable backdrop, insulating layer of thermal and moisture insulation, SNS fastenings, France).
Fischer XC Comfort(for comfortable walking, internal thermoformable material, heel reinforcement, cuff, protective layer of lacing, polyurethane sole, NNN fastening system).
Atomic Mover 20(amateur, spacious last 106 mm, tight heel girth, water-repellent protection, SNS fastening system, Austria).
Rossignol X1 Ultra(walking for beginners, improved heel girth, simplified lacing system for ease of putting on and taking off, Spain).

Cross-country skiing designed for movement in snowy terrain at distances of up to 50 km with high speed. Boots for this type of ski should:

protect the foot from moisture and freezing;
ensure comfortable, safe riding without injury.

They are made of two layers of moisture-repellent materials that are resistant to low temperatures. There is insulation inside to keep your feet warm.

Sports models use a lateral ankle support system. In cross-country touring skis, all attention is paid to comfort and dryness inside the boot.

Cross-country ski boots are produced:

men's;
women's;
unisex;
children's (narrower).

By type of skiing:

walking (the type of pad should ensure maximum comfort);
tourist (must be convenient for pedestrian crossings);
sports (focus on performance).

By riding style:

skating (high boots, a rigid cuff is required);
classic (low with soft sole);
universal (high with a moderately hard sole and a removable cuff).

The interior of a modern cross-country ski boot is made of materials that mold to the shape of the skier's foot during skiing.

When choosing, pay attention to:

type of fastening, which must match the type of ski fastening (NNN and SNS fastenings are used for cross-country skis);
material of manufacture, on which the ease of riding depends;
anatomical insole ensuring a comfortable foot position;
thermoformable backdrop.

Boots may have laces or zippers for a snug fit. To support the ankle, sports models have a cuff.

Pros:

comfort (fit to the foot);
ease;
comfort;
the ability to select models for a specific riding style and universal models.

Cons:

not suitable for other skiing styles (for alpine skiing).

Fischer RC1 Combi(combined for skating and classic travel, sizes up to 48, NNN fastenings, Austria).
Atomic Hawkx 100(alpine skiing, asymmetrical inner boot, 4 clips, 35 mm belt, sizes up to 47, Austria).
Spain X-Rider(running, anatomical last, three-layer insulation, size up to 48, SNS fastening, Russia).

All ski boot manufacturers known today produce models in large sizes for any skiing style.

For men's models these are boots from size 46 and above, for women's models - from 41 and above. European size (Mondo Point) is determined by the length of the foot.

Correspondence to the sizes of men's boots (Mondo Point (international system) – RU (Russian size) – US (American):

31 – 46 – 13;
31,5 – 46,5 – 13,5;
32 – 47 – 14;
32,5 – 47,5 – 14,5.

Correspondence to the sizes of women's boots (Mondo Point – RU – US):

26 – 41 – 9;
26,5 – 41,5 – 9,5;
27 – 42 – 10;
27,5 – 42,5 – 10,5;
28 – 43 – 11;
28,5 – 43,5 – 11,5.

All major manufacturers have the ability to individually order large size models for a specific riding style.

Boots must be tried on with socks in which you plan to ride. They should be 0.5 sizes larger (for a warm sock), but not loose.

Each company has its own designed last, so it is better to try on several options and choose the one that suits you. Correct selection is determined only when buttoned.

Signs of the right choice:

in buttoned shoes, the toe does not touch the toe when the leg is bent at the knee;
rest on the toe in the usual position on straight legs;
the width of the leg is not compressed, there are no inconveniences from the design of the boot;
with the leg bent at the knee, the heel is fixed and does not rise.

Properly selected shoes will not cause any discomfort or pain, regardless of the time of skiing.

Pros:

possibility of skiing in any style for men and women with large feet.

Cons:

the difficulty of purchasing in a retail chain.

Nordica Hell&Back H1(for experts, hardness 110-120, width – 100 mm, 4 clips, belt, one-piece design for easy putting on and taking off, weight – 2 kg, Italy).
Salomon Quest Access 70(for amateurs and beginners, hardness – 70, width – 104 mm, 3 clips, wide belt, thermal insulation, France).
Rossignol Alltrack Pro 110 RBC3050(for freeride, hardness – 110, width – 100 mm, 4 aluminum clips, belt, 3D inner boot of different hardness, France).
Tecnica Cochise Light Pro Dyn(for professionals, hardness – 120, width – 100 mm, 4 aluminum clips, belt, tilt adjustment, Italy).

The design is completely different from cross-country ski models. Consist of an outer and inner boot. They differ in several ways.

According to hardness, they are divided into shoes for:

beginners (50-70);
experts (80-120);
professional athletes (130-150).

The stiffer the boot, the more accurate and faster transmission to the ski it provides.

Some models have a hardness level switch.

By type of inner boot:

with thermoforming with hot air - after heating and putting on, the liner repeats the shape of the leg in 15 minutes;
with natural thermoforming - takes the shape of the leg without heating after several rides;
with thermoforming of the inner and outer boot - heating in a special oven in the widest part of the foot.

By number of clips:

2 clips – mainly models for beginners, in some of them the tightness of the leg coverage is achieved with additional lacing;
3 clips – medium-hard models for experts;
4 clips – standard hard boots that grip the foot at all main points.

The number of clips plays an important, but not decisive role in the quality of the leg tightening as a whole.

Clips can be:

plastic (in models for beginners);
metal (steel or aluminum in models for professional athletes).

The following can be configured as adjustable regulators:

hardness switch;
“walk-ride” regulator (convenient for beginners when climbing uphill);
canting - changing the inclination of the boot to correct the natural curvature of the skier's legs;
belt - to fix the girth of the boot.

Pros:

a wide range of models for different categories of amateurs and athletes;
the ability to choose in terms of price and quality;
reliability and comfort.

Cons:

not suitable for cross-country skiing;
not recommended for long walks.

Head Raptor 50 white(alpine skiing for beginners and amateurs, hardness – 50, 4 plastic clips, 30 mm belt, thermoformed insole, Austria).
Fischer Soma RC4 70 Jr(junior ski boots, hardness – 70, thermoforming of inner and outer boots, width – 99 mm, 4 plastic clips, belt, replaceable heel pads, Austria).
Rossignol X-1 Jr(running, with quick lacing, weight – 740 g, special loop for easy putting on, fastening type NNN, France).
Alpina T10 Kid(for cross-country skis, elastic upper, thermal insulation, NNN bindings, Slovenia).
Spine NNN Relax(children's touring, for classic cross-country skiing, fastening type NNN, Russia).

They are more soft compared to adult models.

By type of skiing:

running;
skiing

By level of training:

for beginners;
for fans;
for athletes.

The main requirements when choosing children's models:

reliability;
warm;
convenience and comfort;
hygiene.

A child's boot should have a simple attachment to the ski. The sole must ensure safe movement without skis.

When choosing children's ski boots It is worth considering that the child’s foot is growing, so you can purchase 1-2 sizes larger, but provided that the foot is securely fixed. Unlike adults, children have more fragile bones. The boot must have 4 clips.

Pros:

convenience;
reliability;
wide range of sizes;
bright design.

Cons:

high cost.

Fischer RCS Carbonlite Pursuit(lightweight last, membrane, Xcelerator sole, NNN fastenings, Austria).
Salomon S-Lab Carbon Skiathlon(professional, carbon 3D sole, SNS fastenings, France).
Madshus Hyper U(reinforced lateral ankle support, flexible membrane, NNN fastenings, Norway).

Used for mixed ski race classic and skating. A discipline that is complex in technique, when during the race the classic skis are changed to skate skis.

At the same time, the boots must be universal - suitable for the bindings and performance characteristics of skis for both styles.

They are distinguished by a rigid sole and reliable ankle support even with the cuff unfastened.

Pros:

versatility (suitable for two styles);
reliability;
comfort.

Cons:

limited edition;
higher cost.

Rossignol X-IUM W.C. Skate F.W.(for cross-country skating skis, professional, side carbon inserts, raised heel position, central zipper for easy dressing, NNN fastenings, France).
One Way Tigara Combi W(walking running, universal, reinforced heel, 3D cuff, SNS fastenings, Finland).
Full Tilt Soul Sister(alpine skiing, for beginners and amateurs, last width – 99 mm, inner boot molded to the foot, 3 fasteners on cables for pressure regulation, 3 aluminum clips, interchangeable tongues of varying hardness, Austria).
Salomon QST PRO 90 Petrol blue(skiing for experts, anatomical design with a narrower heel, thermoformable outer and inner boot, stiffness - 90, 3 aluminum clips, 35 mm belt, France).

Most ski boot manufacturers produce unisex models suitable for men and women, but a higher priority option is special women's models, designed taking into account the characteristics of the female figure and leg structure.

In the position of the body with bent knees, the center of gravity in women and men shifts differently; in women it is more shifted back. Region calf muscle in women it is usually larger, so the cuff in women's models is lower than in men's.

Ski models for women are:

for cross-country skiing;
skiing

Depending on the skill level, models are available for:

beginners;
experts;
athletes (professional).

Women's ski boots are usually softer than men's models. When choosing women's shoes, you should follow the size chart for women's feet.

Pros:

the ability to choose a model taking into account the structural features of the female leg;
comfort and reliability;
beautiful design.

Cons:

a more difficult choice than for male models.

Fischer Snowstar Yellow(running, children's/teenagers, NNN bindings, Austria).
Larsen Baby(running, children's, safety valve, comfortable anatomical last, NNN fastenings, Finland).
Nordway Kidboof(cross-country, for beginners, NNN bindings, Norway).

Children's version, available only up to size 35-36, in shoes larger size lacing or zipper is used. Designed specifically for children aged 5-12 years who cannot securely lace their shoes on their own.

To prevent the entry of snow and cold air, they are equipped with a blind valve.

Available only for cross-country recreational skis.

Pros:

the child can handle the clasp on his own;
easy to put on and take off shoes.

Cons:

only for beginners or amateurs;
as a walking option.

SalomonAktivCombiPilot(for athletes and amateurs, men's, thermoformed heel, active thermal insole, support cuffs, SNS fastenings, France).
FischerRCSJunior(for juniors, high adjustable cuff, heel reinforcement, quick lacing system, thermoformable liner, NNN fastenings, Austria).
FischerXCControlMyStyle(women's, plastic cuff, heel width adjustment strap, heel reinforcement, thermoformable liner, NNN fastenings, Austria).
Atomic Hawk Magna 130(men's, alpine skiing, professional, hardness – 130, 4 metal clips, last width – 102, Austria).

Universal models are:

running;
skiing

Cross-country skis are suitable for skating and classic style, as well as for any type of skating:

walking;
tourist;
professional.

Distinctive design features:

high boot;
moderately hard sole;
removable cuff.

Available models:

men's;
women's;
junior;
unisex.

Universal ski models are suitable for skiing:

on prepared routes;
off-piste - in deep, fresh snow.

Features of universal ski boots:

adjustment of the inclination of the boot for a specific riding style and conditions.

Pros:

the design adapts to any load force that changes as the riding style changes;
medium-hard sole allows you to move without skis;
can be used in any weather;
protect the leg from mechanical damage;
suitable for different riding styles;

Cons:

require careful selection of sizes;

Atomic Pro Classic(men's, sports, SNS fastenings, Austria).
Madshus RC 100W(women's, walking, NNN bindings, Norway).
Alpina ECL0(men's, professional, special carbon composite to enhance lateral support, NNN fastenings, Slovenia).

When skating in the classic style, the ankle does not experience heavy loads.

Distinctive features of the model:

low boot that does not restrict leg movement;
lack of cuff;
soft sole.

Available:

men's;
women's;
junior models.

Depending on the manufacturer, one of two ski attachment systems is installed - NNN or SNS.

According to the level of skiing, they are distinguished:

walking;
tourist;
sports.

Pros:

soft sole allows you to walk with or without skis;
a large selection of models from different manufacturers;
can be used in any weather conditions;
beautiful design.

Cons:

not suitable for skating style.

With the coming of winter, lovers active species sports are beginning to review their equipment and uniforms. Some people like simple and easy trails to slowly slide down and admire the incredible beauty of nature, capturing the most interesting moments with a camera. Someone, on the contrary, cannot imagine their life without speed and extreme sports. But both one and the other need the correct and comfortable equipment. If the suit is responsible for the comfort and coziness of the skier, then the boots need to be chosen more carefully and thoughtfully. After all, properly selected ski shoes not only contribute to comfortable skiing, but are also responsible for human safety.

Today stores sporting goods and clothing offer their customers a wide range of products from various manufacturers. Which ski boots are considered the most suitable for sports enthusiasts? How to choose? What nuances should you pay attention to?

Features and Benefits

Are you planning to go skiing? What should you do first? The answer is simple: choose equipment. And if novice skiers immediately rush to choosing skis, studying the incredibly diverse and multifaceted assortment of items offered in stores, then experienced winter sports enthusiasts focus their attention on choosing boots. Of course, it is important to be able to choose the right skis, but first you should choose a boot. After all, comfort, convenience and safety of the feet while skiing are the key characteristics that should be adhered to when choosing ski boots.

A ski boot is a kind of connecting link between the skier and the skis. Today, sporting goods and accessories stores offer their customers a large selection of different models of ski boots, which can be classified according to many criteria: by gender, by size, by skiing style, by type of skiing, by various technical specifications, by type of fastening, etc.

NNN and SNS

For good grip between the boot and the skis, you need to carefully consider the choice of binding. There are two types of ski boot fastenings (we are not considering outdated options now) - NNN and SNS. Having studied a lot of information on this issue, we can come to the conclusion that both systems belong to highly professional level devices. They should not be compared from the point of view of which type of fastening is better. Both systems guarantee excellent grip between skis and boots.

NNN- a system that was developed by the Norwegian company Rottefella. The key feature of this type of fastening is the presence of a pair of parallel clamps, or also called stops, into which the toe of the ski boot rests. Four different stiffness options have been developed.

SNS– system for fastening with cross-country skis. Has three degrees of hardness. Developed by the French company Salomon. Feature - the boot rests on one central clamp.

These systems are not interchangeable. Accordingly, when choosing a pair of boots, a person should be guided solely by his preferences, requirements and wishes.

Fashion models

Ski boot companies offer today's outdoor enthusiasts a wide and varied selection of boots. If you think that the key classification provides a distinction exclusively between male, female and children's models, then such a conclusion is completely wrong.

There are two main directions according to which all ski boots can be divided into groups:

According to riding style:

for skating;
for a traditional style or for a combined move;
universal model.

According to the intended purpose:

for cross-country skiing;
For sports tourism;
models for professionals;
for recreational skiing.

Materials

We are all accustomed to the fact that the most practical and high-quality shoes are always made from genuine leather. But this rule does not apply to ski boots. Of course, if you wish, you can find models that are made of genuine leather, but such products are not worth buying. Firstly, they are prohibitively expensive. And secondly, as you know, leather tends to slightly deform and stretch, which is absolutely unacceptable in ski boots.

All well-known brands engaged in production and sales sportswear and shoes, they use exclusively artificial leather (imitation leather), which is covered with special impregnations on top (to repel moisture, for greater density, with a special layer of insulation). However, you shouldn't skimp on ski boots. As they say, the miser pays twice. If you purchased cheap counterfeit boots from a well-known brand, then don’t expect any extraordinary miracle from them.

How to choose

Properly selected ski boots guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience. At the same time, they securely fix the skier’s leg, thereby preventing the possibility of injury, for example, in a fall. You need to choose skis only when you have already purchased or decided on a boot model.

Criteria for choosing ski boots:

Size. The inside of the boot should match your foot size. Under no circumstances should you choose wide or long models, as they will not fit your feet tightly. The shoe can be butted, over time the inner filler settles a little and takes the shape of the foot.

To choose the right size, you can resort to simple way: Take a piece of paper, place a foot and trace it with a pen. We cut out the “imprint” and together with it we go to the store, where they offer a good assortment of ski boots.

When choosing mounts, it is necessary to take into account that there are several standards: NN 75, NNN, Prolink, SNS Pilot and SNS Profil. Once the choice of boots has been made, you can proceed directly to choosing a binding model. The accuracy with which force is transmitted and the direction of sliding of the ski depends on them. Poor quality bindings can ruin the entire riding experience, even if all other equipment meets the highest requirements.

NN 75 (Nordic Norm, 75 mm)– this is a morally outdated standard. Such fastenings are distinguished, first of all, by their low price. The toe of the boot is rigidly attached using a metal bracket to the rods, but the foot is poorly fixed relative to the ski. It is almost impossible to skate with such a fastening. Such mounts are not presented 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 Profile– these are universal fastenings, usually for pleasure purposes with one fastening axis. SNS Profil bindings 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 to stabilize the sole of the boot and one axis of engagement. There are various modifications These bindings are designed for both classic and skating. NNN and PROLINK mounts are fully compatible with each other.

CCM in winter eventing. Creator of the online cross-country skiing training program ProSki. She shares her experience in articles and blogs on social networks, and uses personal example to motivate people to play sports. Ski poles in his hands became an integral part of his life. Egor in VKontakte And Instagram.

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

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

SNS PROFILE. The most popular system until 2010. The fastening design has a wide protruding strip along its entire length. There is a wide indentation on the sole of the boot. The mechanism for fixing the boot and fastening is simple: automatic or mechanical. The photo below shows the mechanical version. On automatic, we need to forcefully insert the boot bracket into the place where the elastic is located. The rubber insert provides elastic operation and responsiveness of the boot when pushing. To unfasten from such a fastening, we will need to press our finger on the button, which is located in front of the elastic band.

SNS PILOT. Now elastic work does not require an elastic band; the contact system of the boot and fastening has been changed: another jumper has been added to the boot. It clings to an additional bracket located closer to the center of the fastening. This system works like a spring: after a kick, the ski returns to the sole of the boot faster. Due to this, the speed and frequency of leg work increases. The boot is fixed only mechanically.

NNN. The difference between NNN and SNS is that there are two thin guides on the mount. The design of the sole of the boot has two narrow grooves, the boot is secured with one bracket. The contact surface of the sole of this system is larger, the ski feels and controls better than with SNS.

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

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

Conclusion

The SNS and SNS PILOT mounts were created by SALOMON. It so happened that the boots of this company, regardless of the model, were created to be warm. For some, this is a minus, since they feel like felt boots on their feet. The control of the ski is weak. In top models there is no such problem, since they are made of carbon: it is light and durable. They have a thicker sole than the NNN due to the protruding part of the binding. The choice should, first of all, be based on personal feelings. Each manufacturer's shoe lasts are different, 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. Classic move suggests the presence of holding ointments under the ski block. To select 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 ice skating or roller skating.

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

The price of boots will depend on the materials from which they are made. Carbon parts will add strength and lightness to the boot's structure at the same time as the price. Lightweight models are made for competitive athletes and have a high degree of rigidity. Beginners may simply find it uncomfortable to ride in such boots.

Below are the ski boot models that I like best for functionality.

Fischer Carbonlite Skate or RC7 Skate. Comfortable boot design. Optimal stiffness at which it is comfortable to train and also perform in competitions. 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. Cuff made of lightweight and durable 3D plastic. They are similar in design to the top models, but more comfortable for regular training.

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 disadvantages only in terms of service life individual parts shoe. If you are just starting your skiing journey, then this is a suitable budget option.

In the next part we will 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!

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

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

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

Retro style mounts

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

They consist of a plate with pins and a clamping bracket. Boots for such fastenings 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 Soviet non-professional 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, and 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 unique guides instead of pins (in the first case - one, in the second - two), which securely fix the foot using similar grooves in the sole of the shoes.

Both types of fastening are distinguished by rigidity. It is determined by the indicators of the rubber bands into which the shoe rests when pushing. They can be distinguished by color or numerical markings. Fastenings SNS for skating they are sometimes produced with special springs instead of rubber bands.

System NNN It is distinguished by the location of the fixing spring closer to the foot (almost under the toes), which also facilitates movement with a “skate”.

Both of these types include varieties that fasten automatically and require manual operation. Experienced athletes usually choose SNS with manual fastening (they are more reliable), and beginners - NNN with automatic equipment (they are cheaper). These types of bindings are suitable for any shoe size.

NIS technical innovation

Another type ski bindings for cross-country skiing 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 bindings themselves on the skis.

They can be attached without screws, very quickly, and can also be moved along the ski. There is only one problem - only skis that have the appropriate platform already installed at the factory are suitable for this.

In this case, you do not need special shoes - boots with standard soles will do.

If the athlete intends to take only the first steps on skis, he better first purchase equipment in accordance with the recommendations of a professional consultant.

And you don’t need to strive to immediately buy all the most expensive ones - such equipment is intended for professionals, and completely different models and designs are suitable for beginners.