It is vital to take good care of your ski equipment to make sure it lasts as many seasons as possible, whilst also performing well. Maintenance is essential to a safe and enjoyable skiing experience. This comprehensive guide will show you how to maintain your ski gear, including boots, skis and other accessories.
Regular Professional Maintenance
It’s important to maintain your equipment at home, but it is also beneficial to have the equipment serviced by a professional at least once per season. Professional tuning can fix any problems that go beyond the basic maintenance, and make sure your gear performs at its best. Consult with any reputable ski shop, such as Naski Sports, who will be able to provide professional maintenance to all of your ski equipment, making it last for years to come.
Skis
Skis are the key component in your ski setup and require regular maintenance.
How to Effectively Clean Your Skis
It’s essential to clean your skis after each day of skiing to remove any dirt, salt or grime that may have accumulated. Here’s how:
- Wipe them down: Use soft cloths to wipe your skis. Pay special attention to their edges and base.
- Use warm water: Use warm water with a mild detergent for tougher dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals which can damage your skin surface.
- Drying: Make sure your skis have been thoroughly dried before storing them to avoid rust and corrosion.
Edge Maintenance
Your ski’s edges are vital for performance and control. They will remain sharp with regular maintenance.
- Inspection: Check for burrs and rust on the edges.
- File: Use diamond stones or files to remove burrs from the edges and sharpen them. Follow the angle recommendation of the manufacturer.
- Rust removal: Light rust is easily removed using a gummy rock. You may need to hire a professional for severe rust.
Base Maintenance
Your skis’ base should be well-maintained and smooth to ensure that you have a fun and fast ride.
- P-Tex Repairs: P-Tex can be used to fill in small scratches. Then, melt the P-Tex and pour it into the scratch. After cooling, use a plastic scraper to remove the excess.
- Waxing: Regular waxing will keep your skis moving smoothly. Apply the wax with a heat gun, then let it cool and scrape away any excess. Brush the base to achieve a smooth finish.
Ski Boots
Ski boots that are properly maintained can last longer and be more comfortable.
Drying
Your boots will likely be damp after skiing. This can cause odours and damage.
- Remove Liners: Remove the liners and dry them separately.
- Air Dry: Place the liners or shells in an area with good ventilation. Avoid direct heat sources as they can damage materials.
- Boot Driers: Use a boot dryer to dry your boots faster and more thoroughly.
Cleaning
- Wipe down: Use damp cloths to clean your outer boot shell.
- Liner Cleaning: If your liners smell or are dirty, you may hand-wash them using mild soap and warm water. Make sure they are completely dried before re-inserting them into the shells.
Buckles and Straps
Regularly inspect the buckles and belts to make sure they are working correctly. Replace worn-out parts and tighten loose screws.
Poles
Ski poles can be neglected in routine maintenance, but they require the same care.
- Check Baskets: Make sure the baskets have a secure attachment and replace them when damaged.
- Check Straps and Grips: Inspect the straps and grips for wear. If they’re worn out, replace them.
- Straighten: If your poles have bent, straighten them gently by hand or bring them to a professional repairer.
Storage
It is important to store your equipment properly during the off-season to maintain its condition.
- Clean & Dry: Make sure all of your gear is dry and clean before storing.
- Storage Place: Keep your equipment away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Ski Straps: Use ski straps to prevent your skis from rubbing together.
- Boot Buckles: Buckle your shoes loosely to keep their shape.
Conclusion
It is important to take care of your equipment to ensure its performance, safety and durability. Follow these maintenance tips to enjoy a more enjoyable and smoother skiing experience, as well as extend the life of all your equipment. If you take care of your skis, poles, and boots, they will last for many more seasons.
