How to Choose the Right Ski Bindings for Your Skis

Last week, we shared tips on  when to know it’s time for a new pair of skis. When the time is right, you’ll likely need new bindings, too. Ski bindings are one of the most crucial parts of your ski setup. They serve as the connection between your boots and skis, which means that they are responsible for power transfer, proper release when you need it, and an overall safe, enjoyable time on the mountain. As you dive into the world of bindings, it’s crucial to understand how they work and which binding type and model will serve you best based on your skill level and style of skiing.

There’s a massive range of bindings available, and it’s easy to get sidetracked by technical jargon or peer pressure. Factors like DIN settings, brake width, and mountain compatibility are the determinants you should be focusing on, and the ones that play the biggest role in performance and safety. Where you ski—on the resort, in the backcountry, or some hybrid—also determines which bindings will be the most practical choice.

To help you better understand the world of bindings and find the best choice for your ski days ahead, we’ve outlined what you need to know about the world of bindings, including some common mistakes to avoid. With the right knowledge you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which bindings are right for you. And, if you’re still unsure, our experts can help guide you through the process

DIN setting is a phrase that gets thrown around all the time. Let’s break down what it actually means. Your DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) is the industry standard for release settings in ski bindings. It dictates how much force is needed for the binding to release your boot in case you fall. It’s one of the most important aspects of your binding, and having your DIN at the right setting can greatly reduce your risk of injury.

DIN setting is largely determined by weight and skill set. If you’re a beginner or a lightweight skier, you want to keep your DIN settings low to make sure you have the early release you’ll need. That is, you won’t need to apply much force for your bindings to pop right off. That typically looks like a DIN setting between 3-7.

Intermediate skiers and those of average size can handle a DIN setting a little higher, between 6-12, depending on weight. This should offer the right amount of hold and release—not flying off when you hit trickier terrain, but still able to release with ease if a yard sale occurs (we’ve all been there!). A great match for this range is the Marker Griffon 13, which pairs well with the Renoun Endurance 88  for all-mountain performance.

For more aggressive and/or heavy skiers, a high DIN setting will serve you best. Advanced riders need retention at high speed and through rough terrain, and for larger skiers, you’ll naturally have enough force to release a DIN setting at a lower level, even if your skill set doesn’t qualify as advanced. If you’re pushing the limits, the  Look Pivot 15  is a top-tier choice, especially when paired with the Renoun Citadel 107  for freeride stability.

Because this setting is so important to having a safe ski day, and to save yourself from an ACL surgery, it’s a good idea to check in with an expert if you’re unsure where to set your DIN. Take your skis to your local ski shop or chat with our support team to get the right intel. And, as in most scenarios, leave your ego out of it. Whatever you do, do not crank your DIN to feel like the toughest kid on the hill. It won’t end well. 

As a general rule, you want to select a binding that has a brake width with 5-10 mm of your ski’s waist width. So, for example, if your ski waist width is 95 mm, a 95-105 mm brake width would be compatible. If your brake is too narrow, it won’t properly deploy or just plain won’t fit on your ski. Too wide, and your brakes could catch in deep snow or groomers, making your own bindings a safety hazard. For example, if you’re riding the  Earhart 88 (88mm waist), a Marker Griffon 11 with a 90mm brake would be an ideal fit.

If you split your time fairly evenly between resort and out of bounds, and don’t mind a little extra weight on the up, a hybrid binding is the right call. The Salomon Shift 13  is an excellent hybrid choice, particularly for the  Renoun Endurance 98, offering both alpine power and touring efficiency.

For the uphill purist, a backcountry binding will be your best bet. A tech toe and backcountry heel binding are lightweight and designed specifically for touring—but be warned, they require special boots, called AT boots, to be compatible with the tech toe binding. (We carry the ATK FreeRaider EVO , which pairs nicely with the Endurance 98 or Citadel 107.)

Not all bindings fit all skis. Some skis come pre-drilled for specific bindings, while others allow multiple mounting options. Check your ski’s compatibility:

• Standard Alpine Mounting: Most skis accommodate standard bindings.

• Integrated Systems: Some brands, like Marker or Atomic, have rail systems requiring their specific bindings.

• Tech Bindings: For backcountry, ensure your skis have inserts or can be drilled for tech-style bindings.

We’ve learned about DIN and the importance of having the proper DIN setting. Other factors beyond DIN to consider include:

• Elasticity : This refers to the amount of movement a binding allows before releasing. More elasticity can help prevent ejecting while still making sure your boots release in case of wipeout. The Look Pivot series  is known for high elasticity, making it a great choice for freeriders on the Renoun Citadel 107.

• Toe and Heel Release Mechanisms : Some bindings release laterally at the toe, while others release at the heel. Some bindings do both. This can impact safety in different types of falls—bindings with multidirectional release reduce the risk of knee injuries by allowing safer ejection in twisting falls.

• Stack Height & Ramp Angle : The height difference between the toe and heel of the binding can impact balance and skiing posture. In race bindings, there’s typically a higher ramp angle to allow aggressive carving. Freeride bindings often keep the stance flatter for better stability in variable terrain.

• Materials & Weight : Lightweight bindings are usually made from carbon or aluminum and are great for touring, while resort skiers may prioritize durability over weight savings.

Bindings should be professionally mounted and adjusted. A professional can set the correct release settings based on your weight, height, and skill level. A tech will also check forward pressure and toe height adjustments, making sure your bindings are appropriately safe.

Ski bindings are crucial to your day on the hill. The binding you choose needs to match weight, height, and ability, as well as the terrain you’ll be riding in. If you’re overwhelmed by options and information out there, give us a call to get some guidance on the best binding for you.

Renoun Skis Reviews team has over a decade of ski design and manufacturing experience, and decades of combined ski-industry experience ranging from certified PSIA ski instructors to shop technicians, racers, and coaches. We also have a deep passion for and love of all things skiing. The team utilizes this experience to provide unparalleled reviews that dive deep to help guide your purchase for just about any ski-related item and help inform you of any ski-focused tips and tricks about maintenance, on-hill performance, and even the best places to enjoy your Après-Ski. Through written and video content, the Renoun Skis Reviews team is here to help inform you on all things ski-related.

Our team curates recommendations based on an intensive research and review process and leverages our unique expertise in the industry. A product must be exceptional in quality and have unique features to qualify for consideration in our review process. For all tips and tricks, all advice is based on on-hill and ski manufacturing knowledge, as well as intensive research to ensure accuracy and help skiers like you stay informed.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at info@renoun.com.