Matching bindings with skis primarily involves ensuring physical compatibility, safety features, and intended use align. The most critical physical match is the ski brake width, which must correspond correctly with your ski's waist width.
Understanding Ski Brake Width
A key factor in matching bindings is the width of the ski brake. Your skis' waist width will determine the ski brake width (the distance between the two brake arms). The brake arms must be wide enough to clear the edges of the ski when retracted but not so wide that they catch on the ski or are easily deployed accidentally.
For example, as per the reference, if your skis are 80mm wide at the waist, you will need bindings with a brake width of at least 80 mm and preferably no wider than 95 mm. A good rule of thumb is to choose a brake width that is equal to or slightly wider than your ski's waist width, typically within 15mm.
Why Brake Width Matters
- Functionality: The brakes need to deploy properly when your boot releases to stop the ski from sliding downhill.
- Clearance: They must clear the ski when you are skiing.
- Avoid Interference: Overly wide brakes can sometimes drag in snow or interfere with your boots.
Considering DIN Settings
Beyond physical fit, matching bindings involves selecting a binding with an appropriate DIN range. The DIN setting (Deutsches Institut für Normung) is a standard that dictates the release tension of the binding. This setting is crucial for safety, ensuring the binding releases your boot in a fall to prevent injury while remaining secure during normal skiing.
Your individual DIN setting is calculated based on several factors, including:
- Weight
- Height
- Age
- Skier Ability
- Boot Sole Length
Binding models have a specific DIN range (e.g., 3-11, 6-14). You need to choose a binding where your calculated DIN falls within the middle of the binding's range, not at the extreme ends. A certified ski technician will calculate your exact DIN and adjust your bindings accordingly.
Choosing the Right Binding Type
The type of binding you need depends heavily on the type of skiing you plan to do and the type of ski you have.
- Alpine Bindings: The most common type, designed for resort skiing. They require standard alpine ski boots (ISO 5355).
- Alpine Touring (AT) Bindings: Also known as tech or frame bindings, these allow the heel to free up for uphill travel (skinning) and lock down for downhill skiing. They are used with compatible AT boots.
- Park Bindings: Often feature reinforced components and different ramp angles suited for freestyle skiing.
- Integrated Bindings: Some skis come with pre-mounted binding plates or systems designed specifically for that ski model.
Ensure your boot is compatible with the binding type you choose. Alpine bindings work with alpine boots, while AT bindings require AT boots (though some newer bindings are compatible with multiple boot types - check specifications carefully).
Key Matching Points
Here's a summary of the essential compatibility checks:
| Feature | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brake Width | Must be equal to or slightly wider than the ski's waist width (e.g., 80mm ski needs 80-95mm brake). | Crucial for function and safety. |
| DIN Range | Your calculated DIN must fall within the binding's range. | Determined by skier data; critical for release safety. |
| Binding Type | Must match your intended skiing style (Alpine, AT, Park, etc.). | Ensure boot compatibility (Alpine, AT, GripWalk, etc.). |
| Ski/Binding System | Check if the ski is flat or part of an integrated ski/binding system. | Integrated systems require specific matching components. |
Properly matching bindings to your skis and boots is paramount for safety and performance on the slopes. Always have a certified technician mount and adjust your bindings.
