Ski mounts
Since today the vast majority of skis are delivered without fixing, the user must independently select this structural element. The use of specialized bindings allows you to achieve safer, more comfortable and technically correct riding.
Views
Ski bindings are specialized equipment that allow you to quickly and efficiently fix your foot in sports equipment. Before purchasing this product, you need to find out what the varieties are.
The main types of mounts:
-
SNS.
-
NNN.
-
NN75.
One of the above-described equipment systems is selected depending on the external conditions, performance characteristics, riding style and many other factors. Varieties NNN and SNS are effectively used for both skating and classic walking. The most universal option is considered NN 75.
In addition to the industrial classification, ski bindings are conventionally divided into automatic and mechanical types. Choosing the right specialized boot equipment can help prevent injury and improve overall safety on races.
According to the structural features of the material, the fasteners are classified into 2 types: semi-rigid and soft. The first option is usually used by professionals, the second - by beginners and children. Less commonly, the rigid type is used, where the design is cable.
SNS
Unidirectional SNS Mounts Is a high-tech and modern development of the French manufacturer Salomon. The main structural element is two protrusions: longitudinal and elastic.
Depending on the riding style, the user selects the fixing rigidity.The system is popular all over the world, which is why you can often find Chinese counterfeits. The use of low-quality products is characterized by a decrease in efficiency and safety.
NNN
The rail fasteners or NNN are designed by the renowned manufacturing company Rottefella. Features two guide pins parallel to each other and an offset bracket.
These design features allow for clearer and more efficient ski control. Functional stops are classified according to their stiffness, as indicated by the color. Can be used by both adults and children. This type is universal for any type of riding.
NN 75
These bindings are also called welt bindings. Quite a simple gimmick in terms of constructive design. Features three separate plated pins and a clip. A distinctive feature - deep holes in the boots, which allows you to slightly press the toe to the mount. It is a versatile type and fits most popular types of footwear.
They can be used both for the skate and for the classic move. The fixation of the leg is insignificant. The lack of pronounced rigidity eliminates strong shocks and technical breakdowns. Differs in a rather low price. The fixing element can be adjusted with zippers, straps or laces.
Popular manufacturers
Since the ski bindings are the most important structural element on which human safety depends, special attention should be paid to the quality of the finished product. To do this, you need to familiarize yourself with the world's most popular manufacturers of specialized equipment.
- Rottefella. Leading manufacturer of quality winter sports equipment. The range includes interesting rail mounts that effectively keep the foot in the correct position. Most of the products support the function of adjusting the foot size. The company has a wide variety of designs. Other advantages include a convenient opening system and versatile heel and toe sections.
- Snowmatic. A domestic manufacturer that has won trust for its reliable and efficient designs. The bindings are suitable for both beginners and classic or more challenging walks. Model range 33-47. When creating structures, a durable metal alloy is used. Mostly automatic devices are presented.
- Fischer. Austrian company producing high-tech equipment for walking and professional level. The hallmarks are the use of intelligent IFP interfaces, patented locking technology and the ability to adjust the size of the foot. It comes in several colors: black, gray and white.
- Atomic. Romanian manufacturer of mechanical ski bindings. The advantage of the product is its versatility, which is why it can be used for most popular boots such as Grip Walk, DIN or WTR. The range is applicable for both professional skiers and beginners. An equally important advantage of the clutches is the auto-extendable skistops, which reduce the likelihood of injury.
- "Cycle". Russian manufacturer with a good price-to-quality ratio of the finished product. Real users note the effective fixation of boots with fairly wide openings. The models have a special locking button that allows you to quickly release from the equipment.
When choosing one of the above companies, you need to pay attention to the fixing method, the response rate and the presence of a skistop. It is important to remember that the binding should be matched to the shoe, and not vice versa. Otherwise, significant discomfort and reduced efficiency are observed.
Components
Ski bindings consist of two separate parts and an additional plate in the toe area, with which the friction of the shoe is reduced. The front part of the structure is necessary to detach the retainer from the side, the rear part from the top. Any modern elements are made from fairly durable composite materials: steel, plastic and titanium.
Main components:
-
heel and head;
-
flexor and skistop;
-
main platform.
In the SNS type bindings, the shoe fixation is realized using one guide element. The front area is secured with a rubber or plastic stop.
The NNN is characterized by an additional structural element in the form of a plate, which has two rails of the linear type. With their help, the boot is securely fixed against lateral displacement. And also in a similar mechanism there is a metal rod in the toe area.
Nuances of choice
It is recommended to purchase ski bindings exclusively in specialized sports stores. In this case, the user can protect himself from buying a fake. Before choosing a product, you need to pay attention to certification and quality. It is recommended to pre-try on the locking mechanism.
The first thing to look for when visually inspecting is the range of possible load for the attachment. This indicator determines how quickly and accurately the ski will shoot back. The front of the fastener is responsible for this feature. With the wrong choice, the chance of serious injury increases significantly.
There are a number of essential structural and functional elements for cross-country skiing.
- Brake. Small teeth located on both sides. When dropped, this element is lowered, increasing the overall safety of the user. It is recommended to choose mounts in which the braking system is installed along the entire length and width of the ski.
- Anti-friction equipment. Specialized pads made of metal or PTFE. These devices are located near the toes. If necessary, they are able to quickly release the sock from the main attachment.
- Lift. The main purpose is to hold the sock in the fastener. The better and more technologically advanced this element is made, the more different inclinations can be done in the process of movement.
When choosing to mount on ordinary shoes, you need to make sure that the purchased equipment is fully compatible with the boots. Otherwise, the comfort of movement is impaired and safety is reduced.
In addition to the above features, special attention should be paid to the type of construction. Manufacturers produce 2 types of fasteners: mechanical and automatic. Contrary to popular belief, the first option is more durable and can be used for longer intense loads. The peculiarity is explained by the fact that the mechanical type is unfastened only manually.
Automatic ones snap on their own, however, if dirt, snow or any other particles get clogged inside the structure, there is a possibility of arbitrary disconnection of the mechanism. Consequently, the safety is reduced both for forest skis and for many other types. Lower cost is a significant advantage.
Experts also advise paying attention to the type of move. As practice shows, it is much better to choose a skating course, which is characterized by a rigid flexor and an additional fixation point. With a soft elastic, the ski will often wobble.
Any ski bindings differ based on the size grid. Most manufacturers supply children's and adult models, the maximum size of which is 52-53.
How to install and remove?
The first thing to do after purchasing the mount is to read the instructions from the manufacturer. When installing this element on skis, it is important to carefully follow the recommendations and step-by-step actions.
Regardless of the brand, the user must first determine the center of gravity of the anchorage structure. To do this, you need to install the mount on the edge and gradually move it perpendicular to the ski. It is necessary to carry out the adjustment until the structure is balanced and stops horizontally with respect to the floor.
The next step is to mark the future holes. It is recommended to use a specialized jig, which will significantly increase the measurement accuracy. If this equipment is not available, you can use the paper template, which often comes with the mount.
The final step is drilling the holes. For this, a drill with a suitable drill is used. Drilling should be done at minimum speed. Previously, it is recommended to wrap about 90% of the drill (up to the tip) with electrical tape.
Step by step build process.
- Clean the drilled holes from dust, add the required amount of adhesive. The kit usually comes with PVA or silicate glue.
- Insert special clips into the holes, and then fix them with several screws. In this case, it is especially important to monitor the smooth installation and the absence of distortions in one direction or another.
- Put the skis in a dry place for 10-11 hours until completely dry. The use of a hair dryer and other drying devices is unacceptable. Otherwise, deterioration of the outer protective layer is observed.
- To change the fixing element, you need to know how to remove it correctly. For this, the plugs are unscrewed from the rear side of the mount with gentle movements. Next, you need to pull out the screws with a screwdriver and remove the strips. To remove the protective cover, you can use a screwdriver that is attached to the external retainer.
- Efficient and safe storage of finished skis requires a dedicated storage space. Usually, a balcony or wall is used for this, on which a stand is installed using brackets. Improper storage conditions can cause various negative processes, including corrosion.