Abstract

A ski safety binding of the type which is convertible between downhill and touring configurations comprises a base plate connectable to a ski via a safety release mechanism and a sole plate, to which a ski boot can be fastened, which is arranged for pivotal movement about a transverse pivot axis located adjacent the toe of the ski boot on the base plate to define the touring configuration. At least one fitting is provided on at least one side of the binding for securing the sole plate to the base plate in the downhill configuration. The, or each, fitting comprises a link incorporating a spring at its forward end and which extends between a point of attachment at the forward part of the base plate and a point at which it is held to the rear of the sole plate at the side thereof. A hook like projection on the base plate is located between the point of attachment of the link on the base plate and the point at which it is held to the sole plate and somewhat below this point and the link can be engaged beneath, or removed from the projection in order to convert the binding between the downhill and touring configurations--even when a ski boot is engaged in the binding.In a preferred arrangement, with two fittings on either side of the ski, the link is in the form of a cable which runs around the back of the ski boot and forms a part of a toggle lever clamp which secures the heel of the ski boot to the sole plate. An abutment on the cable arranged in front of the side projection on the base plate restricts the flexibility of the sole clamp in the downhill configuration.