How to Mount Bindings on Downhill Skis

Mounting skis on your own requires taking a drill to a brand new pair of skis and boring several holes straight into the glossy topsheet. This can make anyone hesitant and is why most people trust the job to a certified technician. However, the cost to you for a professional to do the job is usually around $50. So if you are committed to learning the craft of ski mounting, you can probably save some money over a long ski career.

Things You'll Need

  • Skis
  • Boots
  • Bindings
  • Binding template
  • Sharpie
  • Drill
  • Screws
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the paper "jig" that the skis came with that acts as a template for where to mount the bindings. If the skis did not come with one, check the brand's website or ask around at ski shops if you can borrow or buy one. These jigs will save you lots of time, and it's worth it to seek one out.

    • 2

      Find the mark on the sidewall of the ski that marks the center of the running surface of the ski. This mark is called the Ball of Foot (BOF). Draw a line on the ski to show the BOF. To figure out where the boot belongs on the ski, look for a mark on the side of the boot, similar to the BOF, that indicates the exact center of the boot. Make this mark on the ski, as the boot sits centered on the ski. Draw a line tip to tail on the ski that marks this point of the boot. You will have a crosshair for where to mount the bindings.

    • 3

      Mount the toe pieces first, as they are immovable once mounted, whereas the heel pieces can be adjusted. Hold the boot in the proper position using the method described above and hold the toe piece firmly against the boot, as if it were already mounted. Use a sharpie and mark the drill holes through the top of the binding in each of the mounting holes.

    • 4

      Repeat the process for the heel piece. Note that the binding pieces must be perfectly straight when the holes are being marked. You can check if the holes are lined up with each other using the template for the bindings. With all the holes marked, drill holes in the skis and mount your bindings using the proper screws. Check with the manufacturer as screw size is not universal.