The front binding (1) comprises two jaws (5a, 5b) holding a boot vertically and laterally by means of their actions on the sole of the boot and articulated on a carriage (4) that is movable in translation between two extreme positions in which the action of the carriage (4) on release means gives rise to the release of the boot by rocking of one or other of the jaws (5a, 5b). The carriage (4) is returned to an intermediate position by an elastic means. The binding is noteworthy in that the rocking pins of the jaws (5a, 5b) are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the binding. The binding makes it possible to hold a boot having a sole that makes it easier for the user to walk.