Skis fastenings running boots. How to choose ski bindings. How to choose ski bindings

In the front part of the product there are stops made of rubber material, which help to rest the toe of the boot during sudden movements.

Depending on the riding style, the consumer has the opportunity to choose the hardness of the rubber. It is this that has a direct influence on regulating the rigidity of ski control.

NNN ski bindings have two parallel boot guides. The boots are fastened with a bracket in the toe area. At the same time, the bracket is shifted 1 cm back, almost under the fingers, which helps to improve the skating stroke of the control.

This design of the bindings prevents snow from sticking to the boot when skiing, since the risk of lateral movement of the boot is reduced to zero.

Advantages of NNN mounts

• variety of choice of boots
• possibility of purchasing both manual and automatic fastening
• wide choice of fastenings regardless of age categories
• affordable price

As a rule, when purchasing fasteners for the first time, beginners are recommended to use the automatic type, which is easy to use

NNN ski bindings in Moscow can be purchased through our online store NovaSport.ru. The price is unique, the product is of quality and originality, the service is at a high level. If difficulties arise with choosing the type of fastening, the sales consultant is ready to provide qualified assistance. Delivery is carried out in a way convenient for the customer in the shortest possible time.

Skis are one of the most popular equipment for winter sports. There is a heated debate among amateurs and professionals about the best mounting option - NNN or SNS. Which alternative is more reliable, and what is the general difference between them? The differences are visible even with a superficial study of the issue.

What is NNN and SNS mount

NNN is a special system for fastening boots to cross-country skis, proposed by Rottefella from Norway. A distinctive feature is the presence of two parallel flexors (stops), into which the toe of the shoe rests when pushing. The fastening is universal and is suitable for any boots produced for NNN, with the exception of children's and youth boots.
NNN mount
SNS is a system for fastening shoes to cross-country skis, created by Salomon from France. The most important feature of the design is the presence of a central protrusion into which the toe of the boot rests when pushing. The presence of two brackets (one of which is located in front of the toe) for fixing the shoe allows for increased controllability of the ski, which is more responsive to the athlete’s movements.
SNS mount

Difference between NNN and SNS mount

Thus, the question of choosing between NNN and SNS depends on the individual athlete, his needs and preferences. The technical differences between these types of fastenings are as follows. NNN has two parallel protrusions for fastening boots, SNS has one central one. This point must be taken into account when choosing boots, as they must be compatible with the fastening system.
At the same time, the NNN lock is located under the fingers, which makes the ride more manageable. The SNS has it in front of the toe, and this is considered a more reliable solution in terms of wear. NNN fastenings are presented with 4 alternatives in terms of rigidity, while SNS only three. However, you can choose the appropriate option for professional sports only after training, since you need to take into account the anatomical features of the athlete.

TheDifference.ru determined that the difference between NNN and SNS mounts is as follows:

Location and number of guide protrusions. NNN has two parallel protrusions, SNS has one central one.
Fastening system. The NNN fastener is located under the toes, 10 mm from the toe of the boot, while for the SNS it is located directly in front of the toe.
Controllability. NNN provides more control over the ski when skating than SNS.
Number of species. NNN is available in 4 stiffness options, SNS – in three options.

To enjoy skiing, you need to buy quality equipment that protects against injury. Ski bindings are one of the most important types of equipment for an athlete, as they affect the handling of skis. The attachments are the so-called drive that holds the leg.

The front part of the NNN binding system is equipped with flexors made of rubber. The toe of the boot rests against them when pushing off. Ski control directly depends on the rigidity of the device. There are three types of hardness: soft, semi-hard, hard. When purchasing flexors for ski bindings, you need to take into account the skiing style of the athlete.

The main difference between NNN fastenings and SNS is the presence of protrusions for shoes located along the device. The system is equipped with two protrusions installed opposite each other. Similar systems have only 1 protrusion. In NNN equipment, the boot fixation bracket is slightly shifted back under the toes, which increases the clarity of control when skating style.

NNN mounts have the following advantages:

• compatibility with various types of boots;
• automatic and manual operating mode;
• a large selection of models, including children's and teenagers;
• low cost and good quality.

The automatic fastening NNN has one drawback - if moisture gets in, the structure freezes and stops functioning.

In SNS bindings, the boot is secured to a wide longitudinal guide. In front of it are stops made of rubber. The stiffness of sports equipment can be changed.

There are these types of SNS systems:

• Pilot - used for skating style of riding;
• Profil is a universal model that is well suited for different styles (skate, classic, combined).

System advantages:

• strength and reliability;
• Possibility of use for mini-skis.

Flaws:

• Suitable only for certain types of shoes;
• can be used exclusively on routes that are processed by snowcats;
• a narrow range of special shoes, which makes choosing much more difficult.

Thanks to two axles, Salomon Nordic System Pilot bindings improve traction between boot and ski.

Automatic or mechanical?

Advantages of slot machines:

• easy fastening without extra effort;
• low cost.

Disadvantages of automatic devices:

• ice and snow should not be under the boot bracket;
• if the area is not completely cleaned, the boots may come off spontaneously;
• after skating, the boot may not be unfastened due to the fact that it is frozen - in this case, the boot is removed along with the equipment and warmed up indoors.

Advantages of mechanical devices:

• easy to fasten;
• Having finished skiing, the bindings can be easily unfastened, even when snow sticks.

• the price of mechanical products is higher than that of automatic ones;
• When fastening and unfastening, you need to bend over.

This type is used by professional skiers. If your budget allows, it is preferable to purchase mechanical devices, since the service life of such structures is longer than that of automatic ones.

Bindings for hunting skis are made of leather. When purchasing such structures, it is better to consult a specialist.

Varieties

Bindings must be selected individually for each athlete, depending on his riding style.

For alpine skiing

The device is divided into 2 parts and has plates under the toe that reduce friction of the boot. Lateral detachment occurs due to the front part, and top detachment occurs due to the rear part.

All types of fixtures are the same size. Any company (Burton, Fisher, Step, Decathlon) is suitable for use. Thule also produces ski mounts for cars. We also sell a bracket for storing skis on the wall.

The adjustment of freeride devices depends on the person’s weight. When setting up the device, you need to take into account the experience and riding style of the athlete. When adjusting, you need to take into account the following nuances:

1. To determine the unit of operation of the devices, divide the athlete’s weight by 10. Beginner skiers need to subtract 2 units from the resulting parameter.
2. The maximum control limit is ±3 units from the result obtained at the beginning.
3. The amount of force can be indicated in kilograms. Therefore, you need to subtract 25 kilograms from the weight.
4. To establish the correct fastening unit, you need a hint in the form of a table; it can be found in the kit.

The following types of designs are produced for mountain plastic skis:

• with manual fastening, their only drawback is their high cost;
• automatic or semi-automatic machines jam due to liquid ingress.

Amateurs use semi-rigid or soft structures.

For cross-country skis

The choice of equipment used for running depends on the routes.

There are 3 types of devices:

• NN 75.

A special feature of the NN 75 standard is the spring design - 3 spikes, which are mounted on a metal plate with a spring bow. This type is used by amateur skiers.

The advantages include:

• low price;
• the ability to use the standard mounting option for teaching children.

The disadvantages include:

• Difficulty in fastening and unfastening the device;
• low quality.

Despite the simplicity of the devices, the NN 75 mount is gradually leaving the market.

SNS mounts are used by professional athletes. Manufacturers produce automatic and mechanical models.

• excellent quality;
• reliability;
• ease of use, junior models are easy to use even for a child.

• the need to purchase special shoes;
• Suitable only for trails that are groomed with a snowcat;
• It's difficult to find suitable shoes.

New Nordic Norm connects to skis in two ways:

• fastened with screws;
• are put on special “sleds”.

Advantages:

• large selection of models for children and adults;
• the presence of two types of equipment;
• Models for children and teenagers are produced.

Among the disadvantages is that when water gets in, the machines freeze.

Professional athletes use mechanical structures. Beginner skiers should choose automatic systems as they are easier to use. Low speed of movement, small differences, flat track - all this is suitable for automatic machines. Freezing is dangerous if high speed develops while riding. Use the tables provided in the instructions. For cross-country skis, choose semi-rigid or soft ski bindings. Men's models are distinguished by their rigidity. Such devices are produced by the Fisher company. The female versions of mounts are cartels. You can install the devices yourself. Mounts for roller skis are selected individually.

Naturally, skis are one of the most important components of a skier’s equipment, but not everything. You will need bindings and special boots. And their diversity will confuse any beginner in skiing. And in order to decide on the choice of this ski equipment, before going to the store it will be useful to familiarize yourself with what you should look for when purchasing.

Choosing boots

Cross-country ski boots, like skis, are divided into three types according to the intended skiing style and four according to the target audience.
Depending on your cross-country skiing style, you will need the following boots:

• for the skating style you need a high boot with a rigid cuff to secure the leg. The load on the leg with this style is higher, therefore the presence of a cuff is mandatory - without it, the skier can damage the leg;
• a low boot with a soft sole is suitable for a traditional style;
• There are also universal boots, they come with or without a removable hard cuff, with a moderately hard sole.

• boots for professionals. These boots are subject to the heaviest load, and therefore, during their production, much attention is paid to reliability and quality. Professional cross-country ski boots use the latest technology, so you rarely see leather elements in them - there are synthetic materials that are superior to leather in many respects. Boots for professionals are expensive, but they will last quite a long time;
• boots for sports tourism. These boots also have serious requirements. They are mainly purchased by tourists with extensive experience, as well as climbers. Boots for sports tourism make them comfortable for walking, without skis, if necessary. They are most often made in combination, with a replaceable cuff; the material is genuine leather with synthetic inserts. They must be reliable and durable, shock-resistant;
• boots for recreational skiing. There are no high demands placed on such boots, so there are both expensive and cheaper ones: depending on the materials from which the boots are made;
• boots for children. Children's boots should be comfortable, durable and warm. In addition, they should be both easy to put on and easy to take off.

The structure of ski boots is fundamentally different from the structure of cross-country ski boots. Ski boots consist of two elements - an outer boot and an inner boot.
The outer boot is responsible for the impulse transmitted by the skier during movement - the stiffer the boot, the better the skis handle.
Different companies designate the stiffness of ski boots differently. Some companies characterize them simply: “soft”, “hard”. Others, namely Nordica and Salomon, have derived an absolute value of stiffness - kilograms of force per degree of deflection (meaning forward bending). For beginners, MirSovetov recommends boots with a stiffness in the range of 15-60 kgf/deg. For those who have already mastered skiing and have basic skiing skills, this bar rises to 40-80 kgf/degree. Further, when you are already quite confident on your skis, you should take a closer look at ski boots with a hardness of 60-90 kgf/deg. And the hardness of 115 kgf/deg and more is designed for those who engage in skiing professionally; they are not worth taking into consideration for now.
In general, the stiffness of the outer boot can be adjusted - but if the skier is standing on skis for the first time, this, of course, will not help him. The stiffness adjustment is designed for advanced skiers. Depending on the slope or effort applied, it may be slightly modified.
On the front part of the boot there are metal or plastic clips, equipped with length adjustment for a clearer and more comfortable fixation of the leg. The number of clips can be from 1 to 4 per shoe.
In addition to clips, boots can be equipped with screws designed for different purposes. For example, with a folding heel, such a screw is built into a large clip; when it is tightened, the tape securing the leg is tightened inside the boot.
Ski boots may also have a power belt that secures the cuff (shaft) along its upper part.
The cuff itself can be adjusted forward and backward, which serves to more accurately fit the boot to the skier's stance. Additionally, ski boots may have another functionality called canting. This option allows you to change the angle of the boot cuff left/right, adjusting it to the skeletal structure of the legs of a particular person.
At the back of the boot there is an element responsible for improving the transfer of force to the ski.
When walking off-slope, it is helpful to have the top of the boot loosened. For this purpose, there is a “walking-skating” switch, which just frees the leg enclosed in the boot from being constrained.

Another existing difference in ski boots is the entry principle. In boots with a front entry, the cuff opens at the front, which allows the boot to better fit the foot. Most often, this principle is used for sports and expert models; in such boots, the cuff does not have an adjustment for tilting back. Center-entry boots feature a partially fold-down back of the boot, making it easier to put on and take off. Finally, rear entry boots, which are the most comfortable for beginners, have a flip-up heel, making them fairly easy to put on.
The inner boot in ski boots is made of soft materials. It both eliminates the need to wear a sock under the boot and allows for a more precise fit.
The materials for inner boots differ in their properties. For models intended for beginners, the boot is made in such a way that it takes on the exact shape of the foot within the first minutes. In expert models, this takes time - the inner boot is made of a tougher, more unyielding material. On the one hand, it provides better contact with the ski (as well as the rigidity of the outer boot), but on the other hand, skiers without the proper level of training will find it uncomfortable in such boots. It will be possible to switch to them over time.
Choosing boots for mountain skiing is more difficult. Regarding the size, there is one basic rule that should be followed: if the foot is wide, it is better to take half a size larger, because under load it will definitely become even wider. For the same reason, you must try on shoes while standing.
Try it on with a thin elastic sock. It should be perfectly even and smooth, without any folds, and end above the end of the cuff.
You need to understand that it is useless to rely on a manufacturer when choosing - each of them produces boots with their own characteristics - with a wider or narrower toe or heel, with different insteps, and so on. The price for a ski boot is also not the most accurate indicator. The most expensive boots are expert ones and will be very difficult for a beginner. It is extremely important to choose comfortable boots - if there is even a little pressure when trying them on, you should not take them - on the slope this discomfort will intensify many times over, which can cause a spoiled holiday (at best).
When trying on a boot, you need to fasten all the clips. You should start fastening the boot with the second clip from the toe, the one that tightens the arch of the foot, thereby fixing the heel. After this, you should listen to the sensations - are your toes resting on the toe, is it possible to move them a little; The heel should not dangle or come off the insole when tilted. You need to move your leg back and forth, from side to side.
Now you can try to tighten the clips as much as possible. There is a pitfall here: do not forget that the inner boot has not yet collapsed, and that later you will need to tighten the clips more. And if, when trying them on, they are already tightened as much as possible, then later, when it is really needed, the clips cannot be tightened.
If it seems that the shoe is still too small, MirSovetov recommends putting half a size larger on the other foot and again listening to the sensations of which foot is more comfortable. When trying it on, you need to sit down - if it throws you back, it means the boot is too stiff. It’s better to spend 15-20 minutes in your boots, stand, and walk a little. Having bought boots, you don’t have to put them away before skiing - you can wear them at home, preparing your feet for the slopes...
As for companies producing ski boots, there are many of them. Rossignol, Salomon, Fischer, etc. have proven themselves well.
It is useful to know that, along with typical target groups, manufacturers distinguish ski boots for carving and women's models.
There is no need for carving boots for beginners; they are designed for athletes who have been skiing for a long time and have a strong footing. The differences between these models are as follows:

• on the one hand, increased rigidity of the outer boot in the lateral direction and, conversely, weakening of the resistance of the cuff when tilted back and forth;
• Along with the usual “walking-skating” switch, there is a third one (“soft”, “carve”), which is responsible for the soft resistance of the boot when bending forward or backward.
• this model almost always uses a “platform” that raises the skier’s foot higher above the surface of the ski.

Selection of mounts

• front (Nordic 75);
• with a “gutter” (SNS system);
• with “rails” (NNN system).

• automatic;
• mechanical.

Skiing
In alpine skiing, the safety of the skier largely depends on the bindings. Everything is done so that when moving, they securely fix the boot, preventing it from moving, but at the same time, in the event of a risk of falling or injury, they immediately unfasten.
Modern bindings for ski boots are made of heavy-duty materials - titanium, steel or high-strength plastic. The main fastening elements are: the fastening head, the fastening heel, the platform and the ski stop.
Mounting head. This is the front part of the fastening, which is responsible for releasing the toe of the boot when the skier falls - sideways and backwards. Its most important characteristic is elasticity. This is the ability of the head to not open during short impulse impacts, but to return the “left” shoe to its original position. Vertical elasticity can be up to 20 mm, lateral - up to 45 mm. In addition, some models have a TwinCam system, which allows the boot to move sideways by half the sole. If the displacement continues, the head unfastens; if not, it returns the shoe to its place.
Fastening heel. Performs the same functions as the head, only it frees the heel of the boot if necessary. It also has an indicator of vertical elasticity (up to 25 mm).
According to the method of fastening, they are divided into:

• manually fastened;
• semi-automatic - they are set manually and then snap into place when pressed with your foot;
• automatic - the fasteners snap into place when pressed;

It is very important to initially choose the most suitable skis, bindings and boots for them. Because any discomfort while skiing will discourage further skiing. But at the same time, it is very difficult not to make a single mistake when choosing for the first time. The final understanding of what you really need will come only with time, with riding experience. Therefore, if possible, before purchasing your first equipment, try out several different skis, boots, and bindings (for example, renting or borrowing from friends). Then you will be prepared for the purchase not only theoretically.
In the next article, in order to finally prepare you, we will tell you

Cross-country skiing is divided into racing, amateur and touring. As a rule, the purpose is indicated in the product card.

1. Racing (marked Racing and Racing PRO). These skis are designed for athletes and amateurs who want to improve their speed. This is an option for specially prepared trails.
2. Amateur or recreational (Active, Fitness). This is an option for those who sometimes go for a ride in the park, do it for fun and do not strive for records. Skis are slightly wider than racing skis; expensive materials and technologies are rarely used in their production.
3. Tourist (Back Country). These are skis for hunters, tourists and fishermen, people who need to move around, without pistes or ski tracks. Such skis are much wider than recreational skis in order to support a person’s weight on loose snow.

Skis

Classic skis (designated Classic or Cl) are longer than skate skis, have a sharp toe and a soft last. There may be notches under the block (designated TR) that prevent slipping during repulsion. On the left is a ski with notches, on the right - without.

If the ski does not have notches (designation WAX), a special ointment provides an anti-slip effect. However, it will be quite difficult for beginners to apply it correctly, so a ski with serrations will be the best option.

To choose the size of classic skis, add 20 cm to your height or simply raise your hand: the lowered palm of your outstretched arm should touch the top of the ski.

It is also worth paying attention to the stiffness of the skis. First, determine the center of gravity: place the ski on your hand so that both ends are in balance. Then fold the skis with the sliding side towards each other and squeeze with one hand 3 cm below the found center of balance. There will be a distance of 1–1.5 mm between skis of suitable stiffness.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for classic skis are low and soft, without special inserts to secure the foot.

You shouldn't buy boots back to back. If your big toe rests on the toe of the shoe, your foot will quickly freeze. Better take boots half a size larger.

What to buy

Sticks

When choosing poles for classic skating, pay attention to their length. With short ones, it will be uncomfortable for you to walk on flat terrain, with long ones, it will be uncomfortable to climb slopes. Select poles according to your height: the lanyard exit (the place where the strap is attached to the pole) should be at the level of your shoulder.

Poles are made from aluminum, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Aluminum ones can bend under load. So, if you weigh a lot, choose glass and carbon fiber. The latter provides the greatest rigidity and lightness of the poles. These poles are used by professional athletes.

Also pay attention to the material of the handle. Poles with cork handles are well suited for walking in cold weather: cork does not get cold on the hand, unlike plastic.

Skis

Skis for skating (designated Skate or Sk) are shorter and have a smooth last, since with this type of skiing the notches only get in the way, clinging to the snow and reducing speed.

To find the ideal length for skate skis, add 5–10 cm to your height.

It is also worth checking the stiffness of the skis. The gap between skis compressed with one hand should be 1.5–2 mm.

What to buy

Boots

To prevent injury and excessive stress on the foot during skating, additional support is needed. Therefore, skate boots are taller and stiffer than classic ones and are supplemented with a special plastic cuff.

What to buy

Sticks

Skating poles are longer than classic poles. The lanyard should be at the level of the skier's chin or lips.

How to choose all-mountain skis, boots and poles

If you plan to master both classic and skating, you can purchase universal equipment.

Skis

All-mountain skis (designated Combi) are longer than skate skis, but shorter than classic skis. To determine the required length, add 15 cm to your height.

As for knurling, some all-mountain skis have a replaceable center: if you want to ski in a classic style, use knurling; if in a ridge, remove the nozzle with notches.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for all-mountain skis are almost no different from classic ones. They are just as soft and flexible, but have a plastic cuff that supports the ankle.

What to buy

Sticks

For universal skis, poles are suitable for both classic and skating.

What types of fastenings are there?

Three types of mounts are now common: the legacy NN 75, NNN (with or without NIS platform) and SNS.

Surely many remember this mount from childhood. This is an ordinary metal brace that fixes the leg, but it does it rather poorly.

With the NN 75 it is almost impossible to skate. In addition, they don’t make good boots for this mount. The only advantage is the low price.

What to buy

NNN (New Nordic Norm)

This mount consists of two guides (flexors) located at some distance
from each other, and the rubber stop.

There are two options for such fastenings: automatic and mechanical. The automatic NNN mount snaps into place by simply pressing your boot onto the shackle. In the case of a mechanical one, you will have to open the lid with your hands, and after installing the boot, close it.

However, the mechanical fastening is more reliable: it cannot accidentally come loose, for example, during a fall. Additionally, if you plan to ski in warm weather, water that gets into the automatic binding may freeze and cause a permanent blockage.

Also, the fastenings differ in the degree of rigidity. If the NNN rubber stop is white, the mount is intended for hard riding; if it is green, it is intended for softer riding. Black stops are suitable for standard skating, and red ones for soft skating.

If you prefer skating, choose bindings with white or green rubber bands. If classic - with black or red.

To install NNN on skis, you need to find the center of gravity and drill a hole for the mounts. However, there is a simpler and more convenient installation method: special NIS platforms.

The Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was developed in 2005 for NNN mounts. Skis adapted for NIS are equipped with a special plate on which the binding is installed. There is no need to drill the skis, just slide the mount along the guide plates and click into place.

The mount is easy to install and remove, eliminates the need to search for the center of gravity of the ski and can be used with different pairs of skis.

What to buy

This is a mount with one wide guide and two brackets. SNS fasteners are also divided into automatic and mechanical.

Unlike NNN, SNS has only three levels of severity. They are marked with a numerical value and color. For a classic move, you should choose bindings with a flexor stiffness of 85 (yellow), for a skate - 115 (red), and for universal use - 95 (pink).

In terms of comfort, stability and lateral stability, there is little difference between SNS and NNN mounts.

Most cross-country ski boots are designed to fit a specific type of binding. Therefore, first choose boots that fit perfectly on your feet, and only then choose the bindings that fit them.

Due to NIS, NNN fasteners are more convenient to install, but SNS are more stable: due to the NNN platform, they are higher than SNS screwed on with screws. On the other hand, a higher position increases the force of the push. In general, both mounts are used by both amateur and professional athletes.

What to buy

What materials to choose

Skis made from solid timber or glued layers of wood are becoming a thing of the past. Modern models also use wood, but, as a rule, the core consists of it, and the sliding surface is made of plastic.

If you're used to skiing on wood skis, plastic may feel uncomfortable due to kickback. Plastic is more slippery and, unlike wood, does not “ruffle” when rubbing against snow.

However, with proper lubrication of plastic skis, it is quite possible to avoid kickback. As for the advantages, plastic skis are more durable and, unlike wooden skis, allow you to ski at above-zero temperatures.

According to the manufacturing method, skis are divided into Sandwich and Cap. The former are several layers of plastic and wood glued together, the latter are a wooden core with a monolithic plastic cover.

For cheaper skis, the core is made of wood with air channels. In professional and more expensive ones, it is a wooden honeycomb or made on the basis of acrylic foam with a mesh of carbon and fiberglass, lightweight polyurethane foam with carbon and fiberglass inserts (Polycell technology), Densolite foam or other lightweight synthetic materials.

The sliding surface is made from different types of plastic. For cheaper options, extruded plastic is used, for more expensive options, high molecular weight universal plastic is used.

Nowadays, many new technologies and materials are being used that keep skis light and at the same time provide strength. However, all this affects the price.

So if you're a beginner, it's worth trying a regular ski with a wood or Densolite foam core and an extruded or high molecular weight plastic skid surface. The price of such skis depends on the specific brand and ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 rubles.

What brands to pay attention to

Among the well-known Russian manufacturers is the STC factory. It makes both racing and recreational skis, the Sable, fiberglass ski poles.

Professional models have a honeycomb core and a PTEX 2000 (carbon fiber) sliding surface, and amateur models have a wooden core and a plastic coating. Skis are made using Cap technology and are sold at very affordable prices.

Among foreign brands (whose products are often produced in Russian factories, including STC), the Austrian ski and equipment manufacturer Fischer is quite popular.

Fischer produces men's, women's and children's professional and amateur skis, using combined materials such as a wooden core with Air Tec Basalight basalt fibers. Fischer skis can be purchased at prices starting from 5,000 rubles.

No less famous is the French ski brand Rossignol, whose production is located in Spain and Ukraine. The cheapest amateur skis with a light wood core and a plastic sliding surface can be bought for 5,500–6,000 rubles. Almost all skis of this brand are equipped with the NIS platform.

The third brand from the rating is the Norwegian company Madshus. Amateur skis of this brand are made using Cap technology with a wood core with channels, glass and carbon fiber braiding and a plastic sliding surface. The cost of the cheapest skis of this brand is 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Around the same price category, the cheapest amateur skis are from the Austrian brand Atomic and the French company Salomon. Cheaper Salomon models have a core made of dry Densolite foam and a sliding surface with the addition of graphite; more expensive, professional models have honeycomb cores and a sliding surface with the addition of zeolite.

Each brand develops its own technologies: lighter cores, adding various minerals to improve gliding, changing ski geometry. Therefore, it is best to focus on the purpose of the skis (for what purpose, recreational or sports) and the availability of a suitable length and stiffness for you.