If you buy roller skis or want to use your winter boots on them, the binding system matters more than the brand name on the binding. The two systems you will see most often are NNN (New Nordic Norm) and SNS (Salomon Nordic System). They look similar at a glance. They are not compatible.
This guide explains the difference, why FF Rollerskis uses NNN, and how to match boots to bindings. For the Norwegian original, see the difference between NNN and SNS.
The two systems, in plain terms
NNN (New Nordic Norm) is the most common system for cross-country skiing and roller skiing. An NNN boot has a metal bar at the toe and two grooves along the heel. The binding locks onto that bar and sits in the grooves.
SNS (Salomon Nordic System) was developed by Salomon. An SNS boot has a compatible SNS sole with a single metal bar at the toe and a second bar a little further back. Those two bars hold the boot in the binding.
Because the sole and the lock are built differently, NNN boots do not fit SNS bindings, and SNS boots do not fit NNN bindings. Mixing them is not a workaround. You need a matching pair.
NNN boots often use a bootgrip sole, with rubberised material in the toe and heel area, for grip when you walk in the boot. SNS does not have an equivalent bootgrip function, although some SNS boots use rubberised material in parts of the sole.
Skate and classic boots also differ in cuff height and ankle support: skate boots have a higher cuff and firmer support. That is about the discipline, not the binding family.
The Salomon myth
Salomon developed SNS, so many people assume every Salomon binding is an SNS binding. That is not true on FF roller skis.
According to FF Rollerskis’ Norwegian guide, all Salomon bindings on FF skis use the standard NNN grip, the same as Rottefella. FF has chosen Salomon bindings mainly for how the lock holds the boot. The guide states that the NNN standard itself is the same on both, but that the Salomon lock holds the boot more firmly in position than, for example, a Rottefella binding.
FF Rollerskis uses the NNN system (Salomon or Rottefella) on its roller skis. On all Pro models, the Norwegian guide says FF recommends and uses Salomon Pro or Salomon Pro Race. Pro Race is also available with a junior binding.
If you already have NNN winter boots, those are the boots you use on FF roller skis. Using winter boots on roller skis is, according to the same guide, the most common approach.
What happened to SNS?
SNS still exists on older boots and bindings, but it is no longer the system to plan around for new equipment. FF’s Norwegian guide states that new SNS bindings are no longer being produced, from 2023, and that NNN remains the norm.
If you already own SNS boots, they will only work with SNS bindings. They will not clip into an NNN binding on an FF roller ski. Keep the SNS setup you already have, or move to NNN boots if you are buying new roller skis from FF Rollerskis.
This page does not treat other sole or binding names as alternatives for FF roller skis. The confirmed setup for FF is NNN, with a Salomon or Rottefella binding.
How to choose, in practice
- Look at the sole of the boot you will use. NNN has a toe bar and two heel grooves. SNS has two bars and no NNN-style dual groove.
- Match the binding to that sole. Do not mix the systems.
- If you are buying FF roller skis, plan for NNN boots. See classic roller skis and skate roller skis, including FF 360Flow Classic, FF 360Flow Skate, FF V Pro Classic and FF Pro Skate.
- If you need help choosing boots rather than binding systems, see The Essential Guide to Skiboots.
For an overview of the range, start at the roller skis page.
FAQ
What is the difference between NNN and SNS bindings?
NNN (New Nordic Norm) and SNS (Salomon Nordic System) use different soles and locks. NNN uses a toe bar and two heel grooves. SNS uses two bars in the sole. The systems are not compatible.
Can I use NNN boots in an SNS binding, or the other way around?
No. NNN boots do not fit SNS bindings, and SNS boots do not fit NNN bindings.
What binding system does FF Rollerskis use?
FF Rollerskis uses NNN (Salomon or Rottefella). Salomon bindings on FF roller skis use the standard NNN grip, the same as Rottefella.
Can I use my winter ski boots on FF roller skis?
Yes, if the boots are NNN. That is the most common approach. SNS winter boots will not fit an NNN binding.
Are new SNS bindings still being made?
According to FF Rollerskis’ Norwegian guide, new SNS bindings have not been produced since 2023, and NNN is the system that remains the norm.
Which FF roller skis is this relevant for?
The NNN system is the one FF uses. For models, see the classic and skate roller ski collections.