In brief The binding is the most important factor for causing or preventing skiing injuries. Its function is to hold the ski during normal maneuvers but release it when injury-producing loads are encountered. Binding-related injuries are usually due to improper design, installation, adjustment, and maintenance. Advanced skiers who want to avoid inadvertent release can use two-mode release bindings, but beginners should use multimode bindings. Before skiing, skiers should make sure their bindings release in all directions without causing pain. Equipment should be up to date and functionally tested by a qualified shop mechanic.