Ski bindings
Bindings have two essential functions – providing a connection between you and your skis and breaking that connection if the stress is too severe. For safety bindings release the ski from your foot in case of falls or collisions.
Under normal skiing conditions bindings need to have the ski firmly attached to your foot. Bindings are set according to the weight and height of the skier and can also be adjusted to suit different skiing styles and abilities.
You need to be careful when adjusting ski bindings because improperly adjusted bindings can create a potentially dangerous situation. If bindings are too tight they will not release when needed, but if they are too loose they will release at inappropriate times.
There are several adjustable parts and mechanisms. It’s a good idea to let a ski technician make the initial settings. Knowing how your bindings work allows you to make fine adjustments on your own when you need it.
Bindings are rated according to an international standard of DIN settings. A low DIN setting allows the ski to release quite easily and is suitable for beginners. Higher level skiers want to use a higher DIN setting.
Every pair of bindings is made within a certain DIN range. For example, intermediate bindings may be rated at DIN 3-7. Bindings set at a low DIN will release under sudden or excess pressure. Intermediate settings require more pressure to release while they will still respond quickly to sudden pressure changes. Expert skiers prefer bindings with high DIN settings.
A DIN setting which is either too high or too low can be the cause of serious accidents. A ski suddenly released under high speed will cause the skier to crash. A ski failed to release when the skier falls can result in broken bones and torn ligaments.
Step-in bindings, the most common type used for alpine skiing, have a separate toe and heel piece which attach to the top of the ski. The heel will release the ski boot with excess upward pressure and the toe piece allows to release from excess sideways pressure. More advanced designs of bindings combine these release motions in both the toe and the heel.
Bindings are fitted with brakes (metal attachments) to stop the ski from escaping down the hill if it releases – brakes spring downwards to dig into the snow when the ski boot is released.
Ski poles
Ski poles are essential in providing balance and preventing falls. Length is the most important factor in choosing a set of poles.
If the poles are too short they will cause you to lean forward thus throwing your balance off. Poles should fit under your arm pits while standing.
The handles should comfortably fit your hands. Use your ski gloves when selecting a set of poles and ensure that the strap fits easily around your wrist.
The basket of the ski pole is the part preventing the pole from going deep into the snow. Get the poles to match the snow conditions of your ski area. Poles used in soft snow should have larger baskets than those used for groomed trails.
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