Ski and snowboard preparation

A well-tuned ski or snowboard glides faster, holds more precisely in turns and lasts longer. Here's how we prepare equipment – from the base to the final layer of wax.

1. 1The gliding surface is restored (the base, a.k.a. base)

   • ASplinters and frayed spots are repaired.
   • BDirt is cleaned off and old wax is removed.
   • CGouges are filled with P-Tex material – which is why dirt and old wax must be cleaned off first, as they would prevent the P-Tex from bonding. To remove fine scratches, the entire surface may be ground.
   • DIf necessary, the base edge (base edge) is tuned.
   Base cleaning and preparationWatch on YouTube

   Base repairWatch on YouTube

   Base edge tuningWatch on YouTube

2. 2Excess sidewall is removed (known as sidewall cut)

   If the necessary excess sidewall isn't removed, sharpening the side edge can be very ineffective – the stone or disc simply doesn't reach the steel. For racing and ambitious skiers, the sidewall is also coated with wax paste and polished so that snow doesn't stick to it and slow down your glide.

3. 3The side edge is sharpened to the desired angle

   We choose the angle (known as side edge) according to the skier's style, ability and the surface they'll be skiing on. Read more in the article about the edge bevel angle.

   For icy surfacesdiamond or ceramic disc

   For snowsynthetic stone
   Side edge sharpeningWatch on YouTube

   Edge careWatch on YouTube

4. 4The surface is waxed and polished

   The wax is chosen based on the surface you'll be skiing on and your needs:

   EverydayFor training and casual outdoor skiingEconomical universal non-temperature-specific wax.

   Ice / indoorFor indoor slopes and icy surfacesParaffin-free non-temperature-specific wax.

   RacingFor racing, wet snow and ambitious skiersTwo- or even three-layer temperature-specific waxing: base + temperature-specific wax + speed powder.

Wax thermometer

See which wax you would need for the snow temperature on your trip.