Why Compatibility Is the #1 XC Ski Purchasing Mistake
Unlike alpine ski bindings (where DIN settings can be adjusted), cross-country ski binding systems are proprietary and completely incompatible with each other. Buy SNS boots for NNN bindings and you have an expensive paperweight. This mistake costs beginners hundreds of dollars every season.
There are currently three relevant systems: NNN (Rottefella), SNS Pilot (discontinued Salomon legacy), and Prolink (current Salomon). Understanding these systems is mandatory before any XC ski purchase.
NNN System (New Nordic Norm — Rottefella)
NNN is the most widely adopted XC ski binding system globally. Created by Norwegian company Rottefella, it's now used by Fischer, Atomic, Rossignol, and many others. NNN boots feature two parallel guide rails and a single metal bar at the toe. Bindings have a corresponding channel and bail that clips over the bar.
Subtypes:
- NNN Classic — standard recreational and race classic bindings
- NNN Skate — stiffer binding with more torsional support for skate technique
- NNN BC (Backcountry) — wider 75mm norm for backcountry use; NOT compatible with standard NNN boots
- Rottefella Auto — step-in version for easier entry
SNS Pilot System (Salomon Legacy — Discontinued)
The SNS (Salomon Nordic System) Pilot was Salomon's binding standard for 30+ years. It uses a single ridge along the boot sole and a different bar/bail position than NNN. SNS Pilot is discontinued — Salomon no longer produces SNS boots or bindings as of 2022. If you have SNS gear, you can still find replacement parts, but it's a dead-end system for new purchases.
SNS boots are identified by a single central ridge on the sole and the word "Pilot" on most models. They are not compatible with NNN or Prolink bindings.
Prolink System (Salomon's Current Standard)
Prolink is Salomon's replacement for SNS Pilot. The key strategic decision: Prolink boots are NNN-compatible. A Prolink boot fits on both Prolink bindings AND NNN bindings. This was a major shift — Salomon essentially adopted the NNN standard while rebranding it.
Prolink bindings are slightly different from standard NNN bindings (different bail design) but the boot sole is identical. This means:
- Prolink boot → works on Prolink binding ✓
- Prolink boot → works on NNN binding ✓
- NNN boot → works on Prolink binding ✓
- SNS Pilot boot → works on Prolink binding ✗
Full Compatibility Chart
| Boot Type | NNN Binding | Prolink Binding | SNS Pilot Binding | NNN BC Binding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NNN Boot | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Prolink Boot | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| SNS Pilot Boot | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| NNN BC Boot | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Which Brands Use Which System
| Brand | Binding System | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fischer | NNN | Also makes Prolink-compatible boots |
| Atomic | NNN | Full NNN lineup |
| Rossignol | NNN | Full NNN lineup |
| Salomon | Prolink (current) | SNS Pilot discontinued 2022 |
| Rottefella | NNN | Makes the NNN binding standard |
| Madshus | NNN | Norwegian brand, full NNN |
| Alpina | NNN | Budget-friendly NNN options |
Recommended Boots & Bindings
Sources & Further Reading
- Rottefella. "NNN System Technical Overview." rottefella.com
- Salomon. "Prolink Binding System." salomon.com
- REI Expert Advice. "Cross-Country Ski Binding Systems." rei.com
- XC Ski Nation. "NNN vs Prolink vs SNS — What's the Difference?" xcskination.com
- Fischer Sports. "NNN Boot and Binding Compatibility Guide." fischerski.com
See also: Classic vs Skate XC Skiing Technique | Best Beginner XC Skis 2026 | XC Ski Waxing Guide
