How to Adjust Your Shift Bindings (Atomic, Salomon & Armada)
If you ski hard and spend time in the backcountry or resort, your bindings are the most important connection between you and your skis. The Shift binding—found on Atomic, Salomon, and Armada setups—offers a versatile blend of touring efficiency and downhill power. But knowing how to properly adjust them is key to performance and safety.
In this video, The Ski Monster breaks down exactly how to adjust your Shift bindings, including forward pressure, AFD, and DIN settings.
⚠️ Safety Reminder: Always have your bindings inspected and adjusted by a certified shop technician. This video and guide are for educational purposes only—never skip professional verification before skiing.
Step 1: Understanding the Shift Binding Setup
Before diving in, it’s good to know that Atomic, Salomon, and Armada Shift bindings are functionally identical. The only differences are in color and branding—the adjustment process is exactly the same across all three.
Step 2: Heel Piece — Forward Pressure Adjustment
Start at the heel piece. The small forward pressure indicator shows if your boot is properly tensioned in the binding.
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Look for the raised metal section on the binding’s indicator—it should sit flush between the two arrows on the housing.
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If it’s too far back or hidden inside the binding, grab a Phillips head screwdriver and make small turns until it’s perfectly aligned.
- Clockwise will move the heel piece forward and will increase forward pressure. Counter clockwise moves the heel piece back and reduces forward pressure.
Again, we want the raised metal section landing in the middle of the small opening with arrows on the binding housing. This ensures the right amount of pressure is applied to keep your boot secure while still allowing proper release.
Once done, pop your boot out and back in to double-check that the forward pressure indicator is still centered.
Step 3: Toe Piece — AFD Adjustment
Next, move to the toe piece to adjust the AFD (Anti-Friction Device). This plate helps your boot release smoothly during a fall, so the setup has to be precise.
Here’s how to do it:
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Grab an AFD test card (about the thickness of a business card or 0.5 mm).
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With your boot clipped in, tug the boot backwards to force the toe up to expose a small gap between the boot and AFD plate.
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Slide the card between them. If it moves too freely, the plate is too loose. If you can't insert the card, and pressure is too tight.
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Use the Phillips screwdriver on the screw located on the left side of the toe piece for the original Shift Binding. The screw on the new Shift2 is located under the "MN" marking on the backside of the toe piece.
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Raise the plate until the card slides with light friction—not so tight that it bends or rips.
Step 4: DIN Setting Adjustment
Your DIN setting controls how easily your bindings release. It’s based on your height, weight, age, skier type, and boot sole length.
You’ll find DIN screws on both the toe and heel pieces:
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On the toe, the indicator window is on the front.
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On the heel, it’s on top of the housing with the window just below the brake lever.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to make small, even adjustments to match your recommended DIN value. Remember: a little goes a long way here.
Step 5: Final Check
Once your forward pressure, AFD, and DIN are all dialed, click your boot in and out a few times to make sure everything feels smooth and consistent. The boot should engage securely and release predictably.
If anything feels off, or if you’re unsure about your setup, bring your skis to a certified shop for a full inspection.
Shop Products
For stronger, heavier, or aggressive skiers should check on the Shift 13.
- Armada Shift² 13 MN Alpine Touring Ski Bindings
- Salomon S/Lab Shift² MN 13 Alpine Touring Ski Bindings
For lighter weight or casual skiers should check on Shift 10.
- Armada Shift² 10 MN Alpine Touring Ski Bindings
- Salomon S/Lab Shift² MN 10 Alpine Touring Ski Bindings
Leave It to the Pros
Even though it’s helpful to understand how Shift bindings work, professional calibration is non-negotiable. Incorrect setup can lead to injury or equipment damage.
If you’re near Boston, stop by The Ski Monster —our expert technicians will get your bindings adjusted, tested, and ready for the mountain.