Overview
ISO 8364:2017 - "Alpine skis and bindings - Binding mounting area - Requirements and test methods" defines dimensional, geometric and strength requirements and test methods for the binding mounting area and free space area of alpine skis. Its purpose is to optimize compatibility of the functional unit ski - binding - retention device - boot by giving ski, binding and retention-device manufacturers the data needed for safe, consistent mounting and reliable retention.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Free space area: length forward/backward from the mounting point is specified by ski group (Group 1–4). Width minimums: typically 48–53 mm for Groups 1–3 and 46–50 mm for Group 4 depending on position relative to the mounting point.
- Geometrical tolerances: longitudinal straightness tolerance when the ski base is pressed on a flat surface - 5 mm (Groups 1–2) and 4 mm (Groups 3–4). Transverse profile must follow a constant curve; no elevation beyond the free space surface outside the area.
- Binding mounting area: lengths by group (e.g., 285 mm forward/back for Group 1); minimum drill-hole depth available (d′) 9.5 mm for Groups 1–2 and 7.5 mm for Groups 3–4.
- Screw retention strength: minimum retention for two screws at load rate ≤20 mm/min - 2 600 N (Groups 1–2), 1 600 N (Group 3), 1 300 N (Group 4).
- Stripping resistance: minimum 5 Nm for Groups 1–2. Note: Groups 3–4 may not achieve 5 Nm; manufacturers must provide mounting instructions and cautions where applicable.
- Binding hole patterns and screws: max transverse centre-to-centre screw spacing 42.5 mm (Groups 1–2) and 40.5 mm (Groups 3–4); minimum centre distances depend on direction and group. Required screw penetration after mounting: (8 ± 0.5) mm (Groups 1–2) or (6 ± 0.5) mm (Groups 3–4). Use ISO 6004 screws; mounting plate hole diameter ≤ 8 mm, countersink penetration ≤ 0.6 mm.
- Marking and side walls: clear mounting-point mark required; ski property marking (e.g., “G1”) recommended. Side wall design must allow common mounting devices to clamp to at least the running surface.
Applications and practical value
- Ensures consistent and safe binding mounting across ski and binding brands.
- Guides ski designers on mounting-area geometry, thickness and strength for reliable screw retention.
- Informs binding manufacturers on hole patterns, screw lengths and penetration requirements to meet compatibility and safety.
- Used by ski shop technicians and mount centers to follow standardized mounting guidelines, reducing risk of binding failure and improving consumer safety.
Who uses this standard
- Ski manufacturers, binding and retention device designers
- Mounting hardware and screw manufacturers
- Ski service shops, mount technicians and safety regulators
- Test labs performing retention and stripping tests
Related standards
- ISO 6004 - Alpine ski binding screws - Requirements
- ISO 5355 - Alpine ski-boots - Requirements and test methods
- ISO 10045 - Binding mounting area - Requirements for test screws
- ISO 4287 - Surface texture (profile method)
Keywords: ISO 8364:2017, alpine skis, binding mounting area, free space area, binding screws, test methods, screw retention strength, ski manufacturers, mounting instructions.