skis & bindings

Question
Hi there.
I am 5' 4 1/2", weigh about 146,  I currently ski on rented 160 parabola (sp?) skis, at an Intermediate level, (black diamonds).  

About 10 years ago my friend bought me a pair of Fischer Sport 170 straight skis %26 Look Z5 3D System Bindings, both of which have never been used. In fact the bindings are still in the box.   I am planning a skiing adventure %26 was wondering if it is worth getting the bindings put on the skis and using them???
 
Thanks for your time!
Kelly  

Answer
Hey Kelly,

The first thing you need to know is that there is a list published every year with information from all the binding manufacturers that is called 'indemnification list'. Indemnify means to 'secure against hurt, loss, or damage'. If a binding is on this list, the manufacturer will still take responsibility for failure of the bindings. The thing to know about this list is that most ski shops will not work on any bindings that are not on this list. This doesn't mean that they won't work on them, you may have to sign a waiver releasing them from any responsibility because without the manufacturer standing behind the bindings, they don't want to be held liable.

My suggestion would be to call all the ski shops in your local area to see if they would be willing to mount your bindings. If they say no, ask if they offer any type of waiver to release them from responsibility. You may find a shop that is willing to set up your skis and bindings. Be sure to mention that both the skis and the bindings have never been used. That may help them make a decision about helping you.

Also, there is probably nothing wrong with the bindings or the skis and once mounted, they should work just fine for you. It is just a liability thing for the shops that will be an obstacle for you. If you just can't find a shop that will work with you, maybe you have a skier friend that would be willing to mount the bindings for you. Finding the settings for your bindings can be done via Google 'DIN settings for ski bindings'.

The main thing to realize is that skiing on an older standard type ski vs. a newer parabolic type ski will be a bit different. Getting an old style ski to carve turns will be a bit more work but with a little time on the skis, you should get used to them fairly easily.

Hope this helps.
Keep on skiing,
Windlover