12 best ski bindings

Fast and reliable fixation of boots with skis is ensured by an automatic mechanism and a high-quality wear-resistant spring of Snowmatic bindings.For installation on adult skis, the set is equipped with mounting bolts. The design is suitable for initial training and skiing in a classic cross-country style, and also allows you to take the first steps in skating. The model is applicable to both the female and male part of the population, since it is presented in two sizes - M (35-42) and L (38-47).

According to users, the fastenings, due to the all-metal holding system, cover the shoes tightly, without backlash and gaps, however, under critical loads they may not unfasten. For many riders, this seems like an undoubted plus and proof of the exceptional reliability of the mechanism, but in fact, loosening the fixation when falling should occur without fail. For this reason, it is important to consider that this mount is not designed for high speeds and requires compliance with safety regulations on any track.

The Xcelerator series of racing mounts has got a new bright representative, which incorporates a number of very significant differences from previous models. According to ardent adherents of this brand, Pro Classic bulk have become much more convenient due to the introduction of Quick Lock technology into the system. Thanks to it, the rider has the opportunity to move freely and securely fix the mount on the mating NIS platform. Of course, such a function is slightly redundant for lovers of classics, but for professionals (who are the main target audience) it comes in handy.

In addition, the ROTTEFELLA Xcelerator Pro Classic bulk material has been slightly stiffer, slightly changing the balance and increasing the accuracy of the transfer of forces to the skis. The appearance of the kit did not let us down either: the Norwegian company provided users with a great color option, meeting all the expectations placed on it.

According to consumers, the FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN is one of the best in its class. Made for the interface of the IFP platform, they have a good fixing effect and do not interfere with the correct transfer of force to the ski. They are used mainly for the classic style of riding - this is facilitated by both the rigidity of the fastening and recommendations for use.

An equally pleasant fact is that the FISCHER TOUR STEP-IN IFP is installed and adjusted without the use of any additional tools. The cost, given the general trend of the market, is excellent, especially in view of the charge of the fasteners for a long service life. All in all, this is an ideal purchase for advanced and semi-professional skiers who need a good feel for their skis.

The PROLINK range of bindings was developed by Salomon for the 2017/18 racing season. It presents 12 models, including children's, walking and sports. It is important that their mounting holes match with other models of fasteners from this company.PRO SKATE is designed for cross-country skiing and provides maximum control of movement due to the high coefficient of power transfer. Among the design features of the model are the low-profile connection of the sole of the boot with the mount and composite guide ribs.

In reviews and reviews, Pro Skate equipment consistently receives positive ratings. In particular, they note their excellent stability and excellent combination of rigidity (Flex 115) with lightness (250 g/pair), which is made possible by the use of modern composite materials. Users also like the novelty in the design - a carbon lever, which is responsible for the flawless opening and closing of fasteners. New sports achievements with such bindings are guaranteed for both amateur skiers and professionals.

Kingpin13 skitouring bindings are one of the few solutions for all occasions. The model can rightly be included in the only set of equipment for skiing on trails in resorts and cross-country trails outside of them. It performs at its best on the descents, maintaining the efficiency of the PIN mechanisms in touring mode, but being one of the lightest in its class: a pair of bindings without skistops weighs less than 1.5 kg. The construction is also renowned for its unrivaled durability, plus it is DIN/ISO certified and compatible with all boots with PinTech inserts.

At the same time, on the Russian and English forums, you can find a lot of user complaints about breakdowns in the head of the model. When they became mass, the manufacturer voluntarily recalled its products with serial number 340973 - 411727 and finalized the design, taking into account their own mistakes. The model in today's performance is devoid of problems and even though it took the last place in its nomination, but with a very small margin.

The ATOMIC Warden MNC 13 mechanism combines the power and precision you need on any trail with the progressive power transfer that's important in loose snow. The model is equipped with the same platform as the Tracker series, with the difference that the manufacturer has certified it according to the MNC (Multi Norm Compatibel) standard. This means that Warden bindings fit the soles of all standard DIN, Touring, GripWalk and WTR boots. Thus, they can be considered the best choice when you need one piece of equipment for two types of skis - alpine and backcountry.

Another undoubted plus of the design is the equipment with self-retracting skistops of the Freeski Brakes system. On the one hand, these devices do not allow the athlete to be injured when falling, on the other hand, they automatically prevent hooking when landing backwards. If the width of the skistops does not fit, they can be easily changed. In general, the bindings fully justify the manufacturer's positioning as a model for an expert level of skiing.

One of the most advanced and expensive fastening models in the Salomon range. Ideal for dynamic, somewhat aggressive freeride and backcountry riding, it provides a secure foothold and precise power transfer to the edge.

The main feature of the Guardian MNC 16L model is based on Multi Norm Certified (MNC) technology, which provides a high degree of mounting versatility. They are compatible with a wide range of WTR boots, Alrine Touring and Alpine. The actuation force varies from 7 to 16 din, the height of the toe and the width of the platform are automatically adjusted. If it were not for the prohibitive cost, which justifies itself only with professional skiing, the Guardian MNC 16L could easily claim the title of the most popular binding.

Rossignol PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 can be called the benchmark among ski bindings of the highest level of performance. This set was built on the basis of Dual Standard technology, which implies the possibility of pairing bindings with soles of two standards - WTR and classic. The actuation force varies from 5 to 14 din - an excellent result for a professional model.

Particularly loved by consumers is the Full Action forefoot reinforcement technology, which provides optimal energy transfer and (together with a pivoting heel) cushioning.This fact largely determines the use of PIVOT 14 DUAL WTR B115 for freeride, especially aggressive descents on slopes of various profiles, as well as for freestyle. The cost of mounts can hit the wallets of ordinary consumers very hard. And not easy, because the new PIVOT model is designed exclusively for professional skiers.

It is important for every skier to choose bindings that correspond to his level of training. For example, children who are just starting to ski need a low DIN tension setting so that the skis drop quickly in the event of a sharp increase in load. The inexpensive but reliable Larsen Auto in size M is perfect for them. It is equipped with a lever that allows you to open the clip with your hand or the pressure of a ski pole to free your legs. In addition, the opening can be played back automatically.

In the reviews, the mechanism is given a confident “four”, positively characterizing its cost, ease of use and workmanship. The fixation of the boots is provided quickly, however, the holes are narrow, and sometimes you have to use force to insert and pull them out. The problem can also manifest itself when snow accumulates under the locking button - in this case it can be difficult to unfasten the shoes from the skis.

Universal bindings for cross-country skis for children, suitable for both skating and classic skiing.Supports compatibility with all NNN standard soles, contributes to stability and good track sensitivity.

Despite the fact that the FISCHER XC JUNIOR is made from a combination of plastic and carbon, young users and their parents report good durability, befitting Fischer's reputation. The resource of bindings is guaranteed to be enough for several seasons, and their further preservation in working condition largely depends on the riding style of a young athlete. For all its classiness, it will not be possible to call this set professional: it is rarely used in serious competitions, preferring to “uncover” it in training and free skates. There are some difficulties with fixing the boot, since it is done by hand, but when fully prepared, these problems simply dissipate.

As a leader in the design and manufacture of sporting goods for many years, HEAD is relentless in developing better and better gear for athletes of all ages, skill levels and sports. So, in 2019, she had a proposal for the younger generation of skiers with decent technique and the ability to control speed. This Head WC i.Race Team ski features a rigid titanium/graphene sandwich construction that works perfectly with the Evo 9 AC bindings. Together they make the perfect racing gear for kids over 35kg who have been doing pretty well in a sports school for several seasons.

Among the advantages of this model is the indestructibility of the elements and the safety of the structure.The system developed and patented by HEAD specialists is responsible for the latter - the full diagonal of the head of the fasteners. It provides for the release of the skier's legs in the event of a fall, but requires the correct puff setting in the range from 2.5 to 9 DIN. In addition, the Evo 9 AC features an updated SX head design that delivers better power to the edges, more precise control and better feedback.

A set of simple ski bindings "Mayak" can be found in almost any hunting store in the country. The main feature of this model is unexpectedly high quality, due to the use of "tenacious" materials.

The platform for the foot in the "Mayak" bindings is made of hard rubber that does not harden to a state of kinks at low negative temperatures. In addition, there is a softer overlay on the inside of the platform, which guarantees a good grip with the sole of the shoe with a weak fixation. The heel and toe straps are leather, which can withstand three or four full hunting seasons. Sometimes defective fasteners come across, when used, rivets fly off the belts. But this is not scary: such problems are easily eliminated in purely home conditions. Thus, "Mayak" is a good representative of bindings for hunting skis, worthy of getting into the TOP of the best.