How to install Nordway ski bindings with your own hands. Instructions for installing bindings on cross-country skis. Using drilling

In the modern world, there are two standards for ski bindings created by competing companies: SNS from SALOMON and NNN from ROTTEFELLA. There is also a Russian version of 75 mm walking bindings. All other designations are just modifications of these types. When installing bindings on skis, there are four main requirements:
1) good controllability and maneuverability;
2) reliable connection of two components - shoes and skis;
3) maintaining strength at the installation site of the fastening;
4) Minimum possible weight;

It is necessary to clarify that the characteristics of the ski directly depend not only on the correct installation of the fastening, but also on its position.

Both SNS and NNN have a huge range of binding models that are aimed at a wide range of skier levels. Depending on the purpose of the fasteners, they may differ in strength, weight and rigidity of shoe fixation.

All modern models connect the boot and the binding using a special bracket, which is located in the sole of the shoe and which is clamped by the binding. For all standards of cross-country bindings, the rule is that the axis of the fastening and the axis of the center of gravity of the ski must be aligned. That is why all ski manufacturers are guided by this rule and make their products so that when the axes are aligned, they show the best performance. In this case, the strength of the entire structure will be maximum. An important factor will be the golden mean in terms of rigidity and elasticity, as well as good handling.

Modern conveyor production of skis does not always allow achieving complete product identity, especially when skis are made from natural material. In this context, it is especially important to create the NIS standard, which greatly simplifies the fastening process and reduces the risk of incorrect installation.

Often, skis in the area where the bindings are installed have a platform that adds strength to the ski and ensures good fixation of the binding. However, inexperienced skiers often move this platform when installing the binding. This can cause serious damage to the ski and may result in injury. Therefore, the installation of the ski mount should be carried out using a special tool that will allow you to avoid mistakes.

To install the fasteners you will at least need:

  • paper template for marking; Ideally, a special conductor.
  • ruler;
  • drill with the required diameter (3.4 - 3.6 mm); Ideally, a special drill with a stop for deburring. (If the burrs are not removed, then there is a possibility of the fastening being skewed during installation)
  • glue; Flexible and moisture resistant.
  • screwdriver;
  • drill;
  • skis and bindings.

Marking process.

However, we strongly do not recommend that beginners perform markup without a template - this is fraught with inaccuracy with all the ensuing negative consequences. Also, do not forget that some fastening parts may move and therefore markings for the platform clamps must be done with the fastening closed. Otherwise, the displacement may be several centimeters.

Professional jig template for installing fasteners.

Don't forget that each standard (NNN and SNS) has its own template and conductor, which are significantly different from each other.

Drilling process.

For such delicate work, it is advisable to have not a simple drill, but one with speed control, as well as drills that precisely fit the diameter and depth of the final hole. Specialized workshops use equipment that allows you to center the drill and stop it exactly at the required depth.
Typically, a 3.6 mm drill is used to install SNS fasteners, and a 3.4 mm drill for NNN. Hole depth - 10 mm.

Professional drill bit for installing running bindings.

Drills a certain diameter to a certain depth and cuts off burrs. When drilling through a jig, absolute vertical drilling is achieved.

A regular drill with a stop made of electrical tape.

This drill does not cut burrs. Drilling even through a jig does not allow the drill to be clearly centered - there is a possibility of vibration and, as a result, an increase in the diameter of the drill hole.

In addition, a special drill cuts off burrs that remain on the paintwork of the ski. If you use a regular drill and do not remove the burrs, then when installing the fastener, misalignment may occur and the fastener will not fasten correctly.

Mounting installation.

Before installing the fastener, it is necessary to fill all the holes with special glue, which will cover all the cracks left after screwing in the screw. Thus, it will provide additional waterproofing and durability (otherwise the moisture that gets in there will begin to cause rotting processes from the inside).

In professional centers, craftsmen use specialized glue from Salomon and Rottefella. But in principle, it is even possible to use ordinary PVA - it can also ensure the tightness of the structure. And here Epoxy resins cannot be used. They can damage important structural elements of the ski. The fastening is completely fixed - no play should be left. After installation, the glue should dry for about 9-12 hours.

Installation of fasteners on the NIS platform.

To simplify the installation of the mounts, ROTTEFELLA has created a special platform, which also allows the position of the mount to be adjusted depending on the center of gravity. Now skis with such platforms are produced by manufacturers Rossignol and Madshus.

You need to insert the mount along the special guides until you hear a click, which indicates that it is in place. Exactly the same principle should be used to install the thrust bearing. But for this you will need a special key, which is included in the kit.

The NIS platform allows you to vary the mounting location not only depending on the type of ski, but also depending on weather conditions and the condition of the track. You can change the position using a special key, moving it a few “clicks” in the desired direction and locking it.

Reliability, ease and speed of installation are the three main advantages that this binding platform gives the skier.

Installation of bindings on skis purchased from us is done using professional equipment for free!

Bindings are an important element of ski equipment. As a rule, the installation of bindings is done by the store, but some skiers prefer to do it themselves. Let's find out how they succeed.

Types of ski bindings

There are three types of ski bindings:

  1. Hard (welt) – Nordic Norm 75 mm.
  2. Semi-rigid – straps, elastic bands and buckles.
  3. System:
    • SNS Salomon
    • NN Rotofella

Since the first two types are gradually going out of use due to their total imperfection and moral obsolescence, there is no need to talk about them. It is much more interesting to talk about system fastenings.

It is worth noting that if a skier decides to install the NN 75mm, the installation instructions below will suit him.

Systems from Salomon and Rotofella

These fastening systems have a different number of longitudinal components, functionality and boot stabilization indicators, and are also available in various modifications. They are great for cross-country skis, the most common type in skiing.

  • Rotofella system NNN appeared a little later than NN 75mm. The boots are fastened and stabilized here thanks to two longitudinal guides. The functionality of these mounts is not inferior to NN.
  • In the Salomon SNS system Only one hinge mount is used. Due to the peculiarities of the sole of the boots designed for such bindings, the athlete can control the ski while performing any move. This is the most modern version of ski bindings.

There are no significant disadvantages or advantages between these systems. They are more convenient, more practical and more modern than their predecessors, so they cost a little more.

How to install bindings on cross-country skis yourself

To install the fasteners, you will first need the following equipment:

  • Cross-country skis and bindings for them;
  • A paper template for marking or a jig;
  • Screwdriver (cross bit + drills 3.4 – 3.6 mm);
  • Marker;
  • PVA glue;
  • Ruler;
  • Awl.

Installation instructions

Installation of ski bindings occurs in several stages.

Step 1: Center of Gravity

The first step is to determine the center of gravity of the skis. To do this, the ski is placed on the edge of the ruler and moved along this surface until the skis freeze, like balanced scales, parallel to the floor.

The center balance lines must be marked with a marker. The marked line will coincide with the axis of fastening the bracket.

Step 2: Marking

The next step is to mark the holes on the ski area. This action is carried out using a paper template, which is usually supplied with the fasteners. If you don’t have it on hand, it doesn’t matter, you can download it from the Internet, or mark the ski using an awl, attaching the assembled mount so that the center of gravity coincides with the axis of fixation of the shoe.

In this case, in the NNN system the holes are located in front of the axis of the center of gravity, and in the SNS the axis lies directly under the mount. For professional marking, a conductor is used.

Step 3: Drilling Holes

Before drilling, you should check the distance between the holes located on the mount with the distance between the points marked during marking.

Holes for Rottefella are drilled with a drill with a diameter of 3.4 mm, and for Salomon - 3.6 mm. The depth of the holes is 10 mm. Drilling is performed at medium speed with light pressure. To ensure reliable fixation, the finished holes are blown and then filled with glue.

Step 5: Assembly

Now that the holes are ready, you need to attach the fasteners and tighten the screws tightly. After which the ski is left to dry (about 10-12 hours).

The cross-country skis are now ready for use. As you can see, there is nothing difficult about this. The main thing is to be careful and attentive, as well as to have all the necessary tools.

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How to install ski bindings

The performance characteristics of the skis depend on how to install bindings on cross-country skis, as well as on the quality of their execution. Skis presented in modern stores have a special platform that ensures reliable fixation of sports shoes. Even if you're perfect, installing them incorrectly can damage the ski's structure, reducing life and durability.

What tools are needed to install the fasteners?

Everyone can handle installing cross-country ski mounts with their own hands. To do this you will need the following set of tools:

  • template for perfectly accurate drilling of holes;
  • ruler or corner to determine the center of the ski;
  • drill with drills 3.4-3.5 mm;
  • marker or pencil;
  • special glue or simple PVA;
  • screwdriver or screwdriver.

How to place the mount correctly?

For cross-country skiing today there are several most popular systems for attaching boots to cross-country skis:

  • SNS - produced by Salomon;
  • NNN - produced by Rottefella;
  • NIS - they are produced by Madshus and other companies.

The methods for installing different mounting systems on skis may be different, but there are certain requirements that are always the same:

  • ski boots must be securely attached to the skis;
  • the system should provide high maneuverability and ease of control when moving;
  • the fastening should increase the strength of the ski at the place of its installation.

Use a ruler to measure the center of the ski and mark it with a pencil. To mark the holes for screwing in the mounting bolts, use a template or a special jig - this is very convenient and quick. Install a conductor that matches the type of fastening you have chosen - SNS or NNN. The carefully measured and marked center of gravity must coincide with a special mark on the conductor.


If you don’t have a conductor, make a template from cardboard or thick paper (sometimes fasteners are sold with a ready-made template). If it is missing, attach the mount to the ski so that the center of gravity mark on the ski aligns with the mark on the template. The same applies to the axis of attachment of the boot bracket. The holes present on the template must be marked with a pencil or pressed with an awl. This marking option is not the most accurate, so it is better not to use it.

Modern mounts may have shifting elements, so the holes for the screws that hold the platform should be marked when the mount is assembled and closed. Otherwise, the holes will shift by about a centimeter.

Once the holes for the ski bindings are marked, we begin drilling them. You can make holes with a drill with adjustable speed and special drills of a suitable diameter and with a depth limiter. A special drill has an extension that centers it in the hole of the jig and stops when it reaches a certain depth.

Holes should be drilled at low speeds with light pressure. A hole with a diameter of 3.4 mm is required for installing the NNN mount, and 3.6 mm for the SNS. In both cases, the hole depth is exactly a centimeter.

Procedure for installing bindings on cross-country skis

If you're wondering how to install bindings on cross-country skis, keep the following information in mind. Before installation, you need to fill the holes with glue, which fills all the cracks, providing strength and protecting the internal structure of the skis from water. Without proper protection of the holes, moisture will seep into them and be absorbed into the cavity of the ski, causing rot from the inside. This usually happens with products that have a honeycomb structure or are made from natural materials.


You can buy a special branded glue, but regular PVA will also work. Epoxy resins cannot be used, as the solvent can damage the structure of the ski. The mount is screwed to the ski as efficiently as possible so that there is not the slightest play. After this, the glue should dry within 24 hours.

NIS ski bindings

Every skier should know how to install bindings on cross-country skis. The use of NIS bindings significantly simplifies the work process and allows you to adjust the position of the platform under the boots on the ski.

NIS bindings can only be installed on special skis that have a special platform. Similar models are produced by Madshus and some others. When installing, the ski mount should be guided along the guides until a characteristic click occurs. A thrust bearing is also installed along the guides, which is fixed in a suitable position with a special key from the kit.

Installing the footrest on inexpensive models of ski bindings does not require special tools. The NIS system makes it possible to select the correct location for the ski mount, taking into account the characteristics of the route and weather. You can change your position before each ski trip or workout.

You bought yourself skis, bindings, boots and poles. If everything is clear with boots and poles, then many ask the question - how to properly attach the bindings to the skis?

First, let's prepare the tools. We will need:

  • Ruler or pencil (with their help we will determine the center of gravity of the ski);
  • Marker;
  • Screwdriver or drill;
  • A thin drill with a diameter of 3-4 mm (it’s better to take a C grade)
  • Curly screwdriver (the same cue ball for a screwdriver);
  • Smooth hands.

Let's start by determining the center of gravity of the ski. Place a pre-prepared ruler or pencil on a flat surface and place the ski on it. Find a place on the ski where the ski will keep its balance. This is the center of gravity, do not forget to mark it with a marker. If you suddenly move a couple of millimeters to the side, it's okay. We repeat the same procedure with the second ski.

After we have marked the center of gravity on the skis, we attach the mount to the ski so that the boot attachment mechanism is strictly on our mark. Professionals move the mount back a little for more speed when moving. We will not do this, since our goal is to have as much fun as possible, and not race against time on the Olympic track. Attached? Have you checked? Now we put marks on the ski in the mounting holes, where we will screw the screws. Check again that you have placed the marks correctly.

We have completed this task; we move on to preparing the mounting holes for the screws on the skis. We drill shallow holes according to the marks for the screws. Don’t overdo it, you don’t need to drill through the ski, the hole depth should be no more than a centimeter. If you did everything correctly, you will see some neat holes for our screws.

Let's move on to installing the fasteners. We combine the holes on the mount with the drilled holes on the ski and screw the screws into the ski. There is no need to tighten it tightly right away; leave the screws a little loose. Let's check whether the mount is attached to the ski correctly. The mount must be level, without moving to the sides. Is everything correct? Tighten the screws firmly. You can fill the screws on top with epoxy or Moment glue and let it dry. We perform the same operations with the second ski.

This concludes our instructions. As you can see, attaching bindings to skis is not so difficult. But if you doubt your abilities, the specialists of the MotoTime active recreation center will install the mounts for you. You can also buy skis and all ski accessories in the online store at a much lower price than in an offline store. Hurry up, winter will end soon!

Installing ski bindings - every Soviet citizen had to master this art, because during the USSR there were no special workshops for this. And it never occurred to anyone, especially an experienced tourist, to seek paid help in this elementary matter. Moreover, before, as now, the kit included instructions for installing ski bindings.

Correct installation of ski bindings begins with reading it, which is usually done. We advise you to strictly follow the step-by-step recommendations, which take into account the specifics of installation depending on their type.

But if you managed to lose the instructions, read our story with step-by-step photos, which describes in detail the installation of semi-rigid ski bindings.

Useful articles:

Semi-rigid ski binding: how to install correctly?

Step 1. Find the center of gravity of the ski by placing it on any small object, such as a construction angle or the handle of a screwdriver. It should be balanced - the toe and heel should hang in the air. Draw a line on the ski above this place. This will be the center of gravity.

Step 2. Take the binding and place it on the ski so that its leading edge lies on the outlined line. Carefully, without moving the mount from its place, insert into it the boot in which you are going to go hiking (if you are going to go in shoe covers, then also). Adjust so that the sole of the boot, its toe and heel are in the center of the ski. Only in this case you are guaranteed the correct installation of ski bindings.

Step 3. Carefully, holding the mount in this position, remove the boot. Immediately place marks with a pencil through the holes in the fasteners. Using these marks, drill small holes with a drill (drill 1.5-2 mm in diameter). Or make them with an awl.

Tighten the screws included in the kit with a screwdriver or screwdriver.

Step 4. Attach the cable and insert the boot into the mount. Unscrew the frog slider as much as possible so that it is at the very end of the bolt.

Insert the cable into the slider. Snap the frog and use your hand to pull it as far toward the tip of the ski as possible. Mark the location of the hole closest to the nose for installing the frog. The second will be closed by the frog, so first drill one hole (but not through, no more than 5 mm deep), screw a screw into it, then open the frog and screw the second screw in place of the second hole.

Step 5. Tighten the slider so that the frog has enough strength to snap into place and the boot sits tightly in the mount. Place a heel pad under the heel of the boot. Insert the strap into the cheek slots. Ready! Ski binding installation completed successfully!

Useful articles:

Created by competing companies: SNS from SALOMON and NNN from ROTTEFELLA. There is also a Russian version of 75 mm walking bindings. All other designations are just modifications of these types. When installing bindings on skis, there are four main requirements:
1) good controllability and maneuverability;
2) reliable connection of two components - shoes and skis;
3) maintaining strength at the installation site of the fastening;
4) Minimum possible weight;

It is necessary to clarify that the characteristics of the ski directly depend not only on the correct installation of the fastening, but also on its position.

Both SNS and NNN have a huge range of binding models that are aimed at a wide range of skier levels. Depending on the purpose of the fasteners, they may differ in strength, weight and rigidity of shoe fixation.

All modern models connect the boot and the binding using a special bracket, which is located in the sole of the shoe and which is clamped by the binding. For all standards of cross-country bindings, the rule is that the axis of the fastening and the axis of the center of gravity of the ski must be aligned. That is why all ski manufacturers are guided by this rule and make their products so that when the axes are aligned, they show the best performance. In this case, the strength of the entire structure will be maximum. An important factor will be the golden mean in terms of rigidity and elasticity, as well as good handling.

Modern conveyor production of skis does not always allow achieving complete product identity, especially when skis are made from natural material. In this context, it is especially important to create the NIS standard, which greatly simplifies the fastening process and reduces the risk of incorrect installation.

Often, skis in the area where the bindings are installed have a platform that adds strength to the ski and ensures good fixation of the binding. However, inexperienced skiers often move this platform when installing the binding. This can cause serious damage to the ski and may result in injury. Therefore, the installation of the ski mount should be carried out using a special tool that will allow you to avoid mistakes.

To install the fasteners you will at least need:

  • paper template for marking; Ideally, a special conductor.
  • ruler;
  • drill with the required diameter (3.4 - 3.6 mm); Ideally, a special drill with a stop for deburring. (If the burrs are not removed, then there is a possibility of the fastening being skewed during installation)
  • glue; Flexible and moisture resistant.
  • screwdriver;
  • drill;
  • skis and bindings.

Marking process.

However, we strongly do not recommend that beginners perform markup without a template - this is fraught with inaccuracy with all the ensuing negative consequences. Also, do not forget that some fastening parts may move and therefore markings for the platform clamps must be done with the fastening closed. Otherwise, the displacement may be several centimeters.


Professional jig template for installing fasteners.

Don't forget that each standard (NNN and SNS) has its own template and conductor, which are significantly different from each other.

Drilling process.

For such delicate work, it is advisable to have not a simple drill, but one with speed control, as well as drills that precisely fit the diameter and depth of the final hole. Specialized workshops use equipment that allows you to center the drill and stop it exactly at the required depth.
Typically, a 3.6 mm drill is used to install SNS fasteners, and a 3.4 mm drill for NNN. Hole depth - 10 mm.

In addition, a special drill cuts off burrs that remain on the paintwork of the ski. If you use a regular drill and do not remove the burrs, then when installing the fastener, misalignment may occur and the fastener will not fasten correctly.

Mounting installation.

Before installing the fastener, it is necessary to fill all the holes with special glue, which will cover all the cracks left after screwing in the screw. Thus, it will provide additional waterproofing and durability (otherwise the moisture that gets in there will begin to cause rotting processes from the inside).

In professional centers, craftsmen use specialized glue from Salomon and Rottefella. But in principle, it is even possible to use ordinary PVA - it can also ensure the tightness of the structure. And here Epoxy resins cannot be used. They can damage important structural elements of the ski. The fastening is completely fixed - no play should be left. After installation, the glue should dry for about 9-12 hours.

Installation of fasteners on the NIS platform.

To simplify the installation of mounts, which also allows for adjustment of the mount location depending on the center of gravity. Now skis with such platforms are produced by manufacturers Rossignol and Madshus.

You need to insert the mount along the special guides until you hear a click, which indicates that it is in place. Exactly the same principle should be used to install the thrust bearing. But for this you will need a special key, which is included in the kit.

The NIS platform allows you to vary the mounting location not only depending on the type of ski, but also depending on weather conditions and the condition of the track. You can change the position using a special key, moving it a few “clicks” in the desired direction and locking it.

Reliability, ease and speed of installation are the three main advantages that this binding platform gives the skier.

Installation of bindings on skis purchased from us is done using professional equipment for free!

If you have a modern NNN or SNS type mount from Salomon, then you are terribly lucky. So, as they themselves can determine the center of gravity of the ski. It is enough to take a ski, find its thinnest part (like a ruler) and place it edge-on on the floor, then take the second ski and place it across, it is very advisable to place it at a right angle. After which we observe the process of how the scales work (the front and rear ends of the ski should hang in the air at the same height). But if you purchased a mount that is quite heavy, then you should measure the center of gravity a little differently. Everything is so accurate with the first ski, but the second one needs to be placed through the boot fixation groove.

After the skis are in the desired position, you will need to mark a perpendicular line on the top side of the ski and always above the mount itself. Repeat this procedure with the second ski. Read on and answer the question: how to properly install bindings on skis?

So, now you need to determine the center of gravity of the boot. It is important to understand whether it is old or modern. The first ones should be attached at the very cut of the boot, and for the second, the center of gravity is set along the cut of the boot. But we are guided by SNS standard mounts, don’t be alarmed, there is absolutely no difference for others. Other than that, it doesn't matter what style you use when running. Find a rod on the boot that will fit into a special groove in the mount; it is this groove that should be where the center of gravity of the ski is.

By the way, under this groove, in the center, there is another groove in which the middle part of the mount is attached. Then we take the fastener, apply it to our markings, and in the places where the screws should be, we use an awl to make small holes. Once marked, you can remove the mount and check that the center mark is aligned with the center and the back marks are equally spaced from the edges. We repeat the operation with the second one so that we can install the bindings on the skis.

We take the core and measure how deep the screw will go into the ski - this is done so that later we don’t drill through the ski. When we have measured it, we take a drill with a diameter of 6-4 mm, smaller if possible, and drill. Important: after measuring the depth, mark it with electrical tape, or even better if there is a ruler on the drill.

Now that we have 3 holes ready in each ski we can remove the plastic clip that releases the ski. Then we fix the fastening in it with a screwdriver. You don't need to tighten it all the way, about halfway. By the way, don't use glue. Previously, skis were made of wood, but glue has a detrimental effect on modern skis.

Replace the removed bracket. We assemble the mount and install it end-to-end, while closing the previous screws until they stop. Don’t forget to mark the holes on both skis, and then tighten the bolts (you definitely won’t need glue here). After all this, close the “heels” with plugs. That's all, I hope it worked for you.

Installation and adjustment of bindings on alpine skis is often performed by specialists who know how to do it correctly. But, if you wish, you can carry out the preparation yourself. To do this, you need to approach the process with full responsibility, without violating safety rules.

To install the fasteners yourself, preliminary preparation is required. Need to:

1. Take into account the parameters of the skier for whom you need to prepare equipment;

2. Stock up on the necessary tools:

  • the skis themselves, bindings for them, as well as ski shoes;
  • roulette;
  • screwdriver;
  • screwdriver;
  • pencil or marker;
  • drill;
  • screws.

Installation stages and types

The bindings are a lever through which the foot transmits a command to the ski. Their second function is to ensure safety for the feet. In situations where there is a high probability of injury, the bindings free the foot from the ski.

  • The design of the fasteners consists of a front head and a rear heel. Each of these parts allows you to adjust the actuation forces;
  • The actuation force should be understood as the maximum load indicator. Once it is reached, the fastener is triggered and opens, freeing the leg. The scale on the mounts helps you set this indicator;
  • The higher the scale division, the greater the load required to operate;
  • The presence of brakes on the bindings prevents the skis from rolling far if they come unfastened;
  • Manufacturers often sell skis with rails on them. This allows both fasteners to be moved and adjusted.

There are two types of installation of fasteners:

  1. Using drilling;
  2. Using already built-in special rails or platforms.

Let's talk about each method in more detail.

Using drilling

Installing fasteners using drilling is when fastenings are mounted with screws. The advantages of this type are:

  • Possibility to choose any equipment to your liking;
  • Installation without gaps or backlash. Thanks to this, ski control is as precise as possible.

Disadvantages of this type of installation:

  • Availability of tools for installation;
  • Experience and skills in this type of work;
  • Inability to use skis if the difference in boot length exceeds 2 cm.

Important: When reinstalling fasteners using drilling, the number of screw holes in the ski increases. This has a bad effect on the durability of the equipment. Reinstallation using this method is not recommended.

The installation process itself consists of several stages:

  • The first step is to determine the center of gravity of the ski. To do this, you can install it on a small hill and find the point at which it balances. Mark this place with a marker;
  • All mechanisms are accompanied by instructions when sold. If it is not there, then you should take into account that for classic skis the top point of the foot should be at the previously found mark. If the skis are skating, then 8–15 mm closer to the nose;
  • The pin location (top point) is where the hinge attaches;
  • Then the fastener is shifted so that it is on the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the ski;
  • Now you can drill the front part of the fastener onto the center screw. If there are guides, then you need to center them together.

If not, then a shoe is inserted into the installed element and also installed in the center. This will help determine the correct heel position. Now the boot can be removed and the necessary holes can be made for the remaining fasteners;

  • When using a rigid fastening, the heel of the boot should cover the heel pad by 10–15 mm. System bindings (with rails) require an installation where the boot is completely on the rail.

Use of already built-in special rails or platforms

Installing mounts using built-in rails or platforms greatly simplifies the entire process and has the following advantages:

  • The simplest possible installation and adjustment of ski bindings, without resorting to the help of specialists and without using tools;
  • Possibility of self-adjustment of ski bindings for boots of a different size or manufacturer;
  • Possibility to shift the center of the boot.

The disadvantages include:

  • Mounting choices are limited (since it's already integrated);
  • All such fastenings give a small gap over time, which affects the accuracy of ski control;
  • Increasing the weight of sports equipment in general. This is an obstacle to performing some elements, especially for experienced skiers.

Rules for setting up the mount

After installing the fasteners, they need to be adjusted. This is done for comfort and safety. Proper adjustment of alpine ski bindings allows you to:

  • Take into account the skier’s parameters: weight, foot size;
  • Confidently hold and maneuver while riding;
  • Consider the load placed on your legs and ensure their safety.

If skis were purchased with bindings installed on them, the adjustment is often made by the seller himself. Some manufacturers do not allow self-adjustment. This is a prerequisite for the warranty to be valid for their products.

Under adjustment The correct placement of the front head and back heel for the skier should be understood. It is important to consider:

  • The experience and skills of the rider, as well as his physical condition;
  • Driving style (calm or aggressive);
  • Condition and difficulty of the ski slope.

Skier parameters and corresponding actuation force on the scale on the bindings:

Weight, kg Height/cm Boot sole size/mm
255 or less 250-270 271-290 291-310 311-330 331 or more
10-13 0,75 0,75
14-17 1 1 0,75
18-21 1,5 1,25 1
22-25 1,75 1,5 1,5 1,25
26-30 2,25 2 1,75 1,5 1,5
31-35 2,75 2,5 2,25 2 1,75 1,75
36-41 3,5 3 2,75 2,5 2,25 2
42-48 148 or less 3,5 3 3 2,75 2,5
49-57 149-157 4,5 4 3,5 3,5 3
58-66 158-166 5,5 5 4,5 4 3,5
67-78 167-178 6,5 6 5,5 5 4,5
79-94 179-194 7,5 7 6,5 6 5,5
95 or more 195 or more 8,5 8 7 6,5
10 9,5 8,5 8
11,5 11 10 9,5

In this table you need to find your indicators. When they are on different lines, you need to select the one located above.

Then the required column is determined by the corresponding sole length. The cell at the junction will determine the appropriate actuation force. This method is suitable for beginners or skiers with a cautious riding style.

  • If the skier feels confident and has certain skills, then the indicator from the line below should be used.
  • In the case where aggressive driving is practiced on difficult routes, an indicator 2 lines lower would be correct.

There are some things to keep in mind when working with fasteners:

  • Don't adjust the mounts too much. This increases the likelihood of injury;
  • Too weak a setting will also prevent you from enjoying the ride. Skis will jump off with any, even harmless, fall. This is inconvenient even for a beginner, especially for a professional;
  • Please note that the length of the boot sole may vary depending on the manufacturer. This means that skiers with the same foot size may not necessarily use the same skis with adjusted bindings.

We also invite you to watch a video on how to install bindings on alpine skis at home without the use of special tools and devices:

Interesting too

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. There is no need to delve into how they work, just know that with them you won’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. It will help you find the exact locations for drilling and installing fasteners.

  • You need a conductor.
  • A marker that can then be washed off with water.
  • Drill.
  • 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 the tip and back are aligned and the ski begins 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.