With that first snowfall right around the corner, now’s the perfect time to start getting ready for your skiing and snowboarding adventures. Can’t figure out if your skis or snowboard need a repair, tune-up, or wax? We’re here to help provide some pre-season tips so you can rest knowing you’re fully prepared for your first winter adventure. Here’s how to tell if your skis or snowboard need to be serviced.
Search Your Skis or Snowboard for Visible Damage
Carefully search the bases, edges, or tip/tail on your skis or snowboard for damage. The main thing you’re looking for is if there’s any sort of separation between the base and the edge. Any gouges that you can fit a fingernail in the base of your equipment should be filled by a technician immediately to avoid further damage and keep the riding surface flat.
Inspect Your Skis or Snowboard’s Edges for Rust
You can never just “ski off your rust”. Your skis or snowboard’s edges need to be clean and sharp, so your turns are efficient and easy as you shred down the mountain. In fact, if you notice any sort of rust, we recommend getting your skis or snowboard serviced as soon as possible to prevent buildup.
Is Your Ski or Snowboard’s Base Dry?
If you notice any sort of white film or little fiber-like “hairs”, then it’s time to bring your equipment in for a tune-up as soon as possible. We’ll start by sanding down and/or grinding your skis or board, to ensure that everything is flush. Then, we’ll melt the wax to cover the entire base, then scrape off the excess. Afterwards, we’ll buff and polish the equipment from tip to tail to ensure a quicker ride.
Check if Your Skis or Snowboard’s Bindings Need Adjusting
While binding adjustment doesn’t technically fall under the realm of tuning, properly adjusted bindings are vital for your safety. If you recognize any sort of damage to your bindings, bring your skis or board to your local Sun & Ski Sports. There, one of our ski technicians can help as needed. Plus, all ski techs at Sun & Ski Sports get certified each season to work on ski bindings. So, you can rest assured knowing your equipment is in the hands of experts with the knowledge and experience necessary to release check your bindings. Don’t know what a ski binding test is? Click here for more information.
When to Service Your Gear
If you own skis or a snowboard, we always recommend getting your equipment serviced before that first snowfall. However, in cases where you’ve gone the extra mile to store your skis properly, and you just want to check over your equipment to ensure peace of mind before heading out on the slopes, this list can be used as a guide. Additionally, we recommend getting your skis or snowboard waxed every 5-6 days of riding. Want to get an unlimited amount of FREE hot wax services? Be sure to sign up for our Peak Perks program! In addition to lifetime unlimited wax services, you’ll get 20% off all services. Sign up for free today!
Should You Do a Tune-Up Yourself?
While it’s possible to tune your skis or snowboard at home, we recommend bringing your equipment in to ensure proper care and so it performs its best for as long as possible. In addition to overall longevity, bringing your skis or snowboard in for a tune-up saves you time and effort. Plus, we have all the top-of-the-line equipment and products needed to ensure your repair, tune-up, and waxing services are precise.
View Our Snowboard Service Pricing!
Now that you know how to tell if your skis or snowboard need to be serviced, be sure to stop by your local Sun & Ski Sports for any and all repair, tune-ups, or waxing needs. While you’re there, don’t forget to stock up on the newest and hottest winter apparel and accessories before your first winter adventure!