Demo bindings on skis are almost the same as regular bindings, but they are specifically designed to be easily adjustable. Their primary purpose is to allow ski shops to quickly change the binding settings to fit different skiers' boot sizes and skill levels when they are trying out or "demoing" skis.
Key Characteristics of Demo Bindings
Based on the provided reference, demo bindings offer distinct advantages, particularly for the retail environment:
- Easy Adjustment: The key feature is their ability to be adjusted quickly and without tools for various boot sizes. This makes them ideal for rental fleets and demo programs where skis are used by many different people.
- Similarity to Regular Bindings: Functionally and structurally, they are very similar to standard bindings. The reference states they are "almost the same as regular bindings".
- Durability: Although designed for easy adjustment, they are still built to withstand the forces and stresses of skiing, just like regular bindings.
Practical Considerations for Skiers
If you are considering purchasing skis that come equipped with demo bindings, you generally don't need to be concerned.
- Functionality: As the reference notes, they "are still bindings". They perform the essential function of connecting your boot to the ski and releasing when necessary.
- Performance: For recreational skiers, the difference in performance between a demo binding and a comparable regular binding is typically negligible.
- Buying Skis: The reference suggests, "Don't worry about them if the deal is good." This implies that if you find a great price on a pair of skis with demo bindings, their presence shouldn't deter you from the purchase.
In summary, demo bindings are a convenient variation of standard ski bindings, built primarily for the ease of adjustment required by ski shops, but they function effectively for individual skiers as well.
