Cross-country skiing is typically done on prepared, or groomed, trails and usually does not involve steep or prolonged ascents and descents as is found in back country skiing. Therefore, the bindings for cross-country skis lock in the toe of the ski shoe while keeping the heel free so it can be used to propel the skier forward with either the classic (kick-and-glide) or skate (side-to-side push) technique. No matter which binding system you choose, make sure you have compatible shoes or boots that will work with that system.
Salomon Nordic System
The Salomon Nordic System (SNS) binding uses two metal rods in the toe of the ski boot, allowing the boot and binding to stay closer to one another. There is only one sole groove. Skate skiers prefer the SNS binding due to the extra security of two pins. These allow for more power from the side-to-side pushing motion in the skate technique.
New Nordic Norm
New Nordic Norm (NNN) system binding features one small metal rod mounted in the toe of the ski boot. This rod runs parallel to the front edge of the boot and is what clips into the binding on the ski. The NNN binding on the ski also has two ridges that fit into matching grooves in the sole of the ski boots. NNN systems are for both skate and classic techniques.
Three-pin
The three-Pin system was once the standard binding, now largely replaced by the NNN and SNS systems. The three-pin binding features three small pins that stick up from the ski, matching three holes in the toe of the boot. Once set on the pins, the boot locks in place by a bail (clamp). Three-pin systems are popular for ski touring using the classic technique.
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