Install Ski Bindings

From LoveToKnow Ski

To install ski bindings, you will first need to make a few decisions about what type of skis you have and what changes you wish to make. In most situations, it is best to have a professional ski shop or repair shop handle this installation. If you do make mistakes in the process, the results could include injury while on the slopes. In many cases, it is affordable to have a ski shop handle the installation of bindings.

Ski Bindings and Ski Boots

A ski binding is an attachment which links the ski boot (where the foot goes) to the ski itself. This locks the foot in place onto the ski so that jumps, turns and even flips do not result in the loss of the ski. There are various types of ski bindings. Prior to installing any ski binding, you should be sure you have the right binding selected.

Alpine Ski Bindings

Alpine ski bindings allow the ski boot to anchor into the ski at the toe position and at the heel. There is a safety feature allowing the boot to release if there is a potential for injury. This happens when enough torque is applied. The DIN setting must have the proper setting by a technician to ensure the right fit based on the individual's height, ski boot length and weight. The style of the skier also plays a role here. This is why it is important for a technician to do the installation for you.

Other Ski Bindings

There are other ski bindings to select from, too. For cross-country skiing, there are several types of bindings to choose. The New Nordic Norm is one which features a bar installed in the toe area of the shoe, which hooks into the binding. The Salomon Nordic System is similar, but features a bar that is narrower and a large ridge. The 75 mm is the classic type of ski binding for cross-country skis, which feature pins that stick up to hold the ski boot in place.

Telemark ski bindings are another option, especially for those reaching very high speeds on the descent. They have a design much like the Nordic bindings, but they are a more heavy duty model. The Alpine ski touring binding has a design to clip down the heel for downhill movement and allows the heel to release when you are climbing.

How to Install Ski Bindings

There is a variety of different ski bindings available and each one will have a unique type of installation method. If you purchase ski bindings to do yourself, they will come with complete directions for installation and warnings. The process may involve re-drilling holes (since many manufacturers’ bindings do not match others) and it may require specialized equipment.

Ski Bindings

There are some resources available online for specific models of ski bindings. Be sure to look for the specific make of the binding you have prior to trying to use the directions provided.

  • Install the Karhu 7tm Binding: This fantastic, step by step video gives you instructions on how to install this particular make and model of ski bindings.
  • Elan Ski Bindings: Follow these instructions to mount Elan Ski bindings. The video gives you a systematic method for application of the bindings for all Elan skis.

How to Get Professional Ski Bindings

Most local ski shops do offer installation of ski bindings. You may not have to purchase the bindings at the shop to use this type of service. To install ski bindings, you will need to provide the skis, the new bindings and your specific height, weight and preferred method of skiing (aggressive skier, conservative/cautious, or average skier) to the shop for a proper fitting.

The investment into a professional installation may range from $30 up to several hundred dollars depending on the work involved and the location. This investment provides you with assurance that the ski binding has a safe installation.

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