Abstract: A step-in binding for reversibly securing a boot to sports equipment comprises a toe portion (a toe iron or toe box) that engages the toe of the boot and a cable having both ends connected to the front portion. The cable extends from the front portion around the heel of the boot. The cable includes a heel lever that engages both the heel of the boot and a heel block such that the boot heel remains free to be lifted vertically relative to the ski and binding. The heel of the boot is reversibly secured to the sports equipment by frictional forces between a camming surface of the heel lever and an anterior surface of the heel block. The heel lever can be tipped between an open position and a closed position.

Abstract: A step-in binding for reversibly securing a boot to sports equipment is disclosed. The binding comprises a toe portion (a toe iron or toe box) that engages the toe of the boot and a cable having both ends connected to the front portion. The cable extends from the front portion around the heel of the boot. The cable includes a heel lever that engages both the heel of the boot and a heel block such that the boot heel remains free to be lifted vertically relative to the ski and binding. The heel of the boot is reversibly secured to the sports equipment by frictional forces between a camming surface of the heel lever and an anterior surface of the heel block. The heel lever can be tipped between an open position and a closed position.