If you go on frequent ski trips, you’d know there’s a difference in how your skis perform as time passes. All the more so with back country skiing when the edges of your skis had had its share of bumps, knocks and bruises from hard ice, protruding rocks, stones and dirt. Skis need TLC, especially the edges and base that touches the snow as you ski downhill.
The TLC your skis and snowboard need are regular tune ups it starts with a complete inspection of the base and required repair. We’re talking here about cracks and gashes, chips and gouges on the ski base. You can’t get any fine-tuning done without repairing the ski base.
And that would mean applying the ski version of “welding”, using hot melted PTEX plastic that’s pressed against the base to fill in those holes and scrapes.
Once these fillers are set and brushed for any hidden fine particles in their micro grooves, the true bar is used to determine which parts need leveling before a file is used. The edges are also sharpened according to the desired bevel that would determine how the skis perform on turns and curves.
Base grinding is often used in place of manual filing for shops that work on multi skis. Getting the bottom surface well leveled is essential for a smooth ski performance.
The ski tune up ends with waxing for a hydrated and fresh base.
