January 17, 2005 – Perhaps the most interesting gear development already announced for next season is the new NIS (Nordic Integrated System) developed jointly by Madshus, Rottefella, Rossignol and Alpina. There are two main components to the system. One is a new NNN outsole for both skate and classic boots that’s wider in front and more laterally stable.

Two is that the binding works much the same as current NNN race model, but now clips easily into a binding plate that’s been thermo glued onto the ski – no screws are needed saving installation time and weight. In addition, it’s claimed that the thermo-glued plate provides more stability than conventional binding systems adding overall lateral rigidity, better contact, and power thrust off the ski. The binding can be moved a full centimeter forward or back on the plate to accommodate an individual skier’s positioning preferences.

The new system was officially launched in Europe on Jan 11 and in Montreal at the NSIA Show (National Snow Industries Show). It will debut in the USA at the Snowsports Industries of America (SIA) show in Las Vegas later this month.