Skier Type 1, 2, 3
WHICH SKIER TYPE ARE YOU?
Understanding Skier Types for DIN Settings
When setting up ski bindings, your skier type is one of the key inputs that determines your DIN setting. The ISO 11088 standard defines three skier types based on how you ski, not just your ability level. Your skier type shifts the DIN value up or down from your base setting, which is determined by weight, height, and boot sole length.
Choosing the right skier type is a safety decision. Selecting too high a type means your bindings may not release when they should. Selecting too low means they may release unexpectedly.
TYPE I — CAUTIOUS
Type I skiers prefer lower release force settings. The binding is set to release more easily, prioritizing protection from injury over retention during aggressive skiing.
You're Type I if you:
- +Ski cautiously and on gentle to moderate terrain
- +Prefer slower speeds
- +Are a beginner or returning after a long break
- +Are over 50 or under 10 and ski conservatively
- +Prioritize easy release over retention
Effect on DIN:
Moves your skier code one row up on the DIN chart (toward lower DIN values). For example, if your weight and height put you at code K, Type I adjusts you to code J.
TYPE II — MODERATE
Type II is the default skier type. No adjustment is made to the base DIN setting. This type suits the majority of recreational skiers.
You're Type II if you:
- +Ski at moderate speeds on varied terrain
- +Are comfortable on blue and black runs
- +Ski regularly but not aggressively
- +Don't fit clearly into Type I or Type III
Effect on DIN:
No change. Your DIN setting is read directly from the chart based on your weight, height, and boot sole length. This is the baseline.
TYPE III — AGGRESSIVE
Type III skiers need higher release force settings to prevent premature release during aggressive skiing. The binding holds tighter, which means it's harder to release in a fall.
You're Type III if you:
- +Ski aggressively and fast
- +Prefer steep, challenging terrain
- +Are an advanced or expert skier
- +Ski off-piste, in the park, or race
- +Accept the increased injury risk of harder release
Effect on DIN:
Moves your skier code one row down on the DIN chart (toward higher DIN values). For example, code K becomes code L. This is where codes N, O, and P come from on the DIN chart.
Common Mistakes
Choosing Type III because you're experienced. Skier type describes how you ski, not how long you've been skiing. A 20-year veteran who cruises groomers at moderate speed is a Type II, not a Type III.
Choosing Type III to prevent pre-release. If your bindings are releasing unexpectedly, the solution is a proper DIN calculation and binding inspection, not inflating your skier type. Pre-release can indicate worn bindings, improper mounting, or boot/binding compatibility issues.
Ignoring the age factor. Skiers over 50 have a separate age adjustment that reduces DIN by one row, independent of skier type. A Type III skier over 50 would move down one row for type and up one row for age, resulting in no net change.
Know Your Skier Type? Calculate Your DIN.
Enter your skier type along with your other details for a precise DIN setting.
Open DIN CalculatorSafety Warning
If you're unsure which skier type you are, choose Type II. It's always safer to have bindings release too easily than not release at all. Have a certified ski technician verify your settings.
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