When choosing skis with a notch, the buyer should know that this is a pleasure, and not sports option. They are not designed for rapid sliding on the slopes of mountains, reaching high sports victories. For these purposes, you need to choose professional cross-country skiing. So do notched skis need to be lubricated or is it not important for them? It turns out that lubrication will give improved glide to this type of hiking.
There is an opinion that they do not need to be lubricated, given the structural features of the model. Manufacturers have placed a notch in the middle of the sliding surface. This provides this feature without claiming high performance on the track. The sliding effect is present on the new inventory until the notch begins to wear off. Thereafter, it will be provided with notched ski wax to keep the skiing even and fast. Skiing will bring pleasure on a frosty winter day, provided that the surface is treated and there is a supply of ointment during the exits.
What ointment to choose?
How to smear plastic skis with a notch for traction with snow? Three types of ointments:
- The first is a soil that firmly holds the product. Without primer, the coating disappears in a few hours.
- The second includes holding compositions. They are used for lubrication: mountain, running models, for skating. Professional athletes lubricate skis with notches for classic skiing.
- The third includes ointments for adhesion. They have 2 functions at the same time: to maintain sliding, to grapple at the moment of push.
Ointments also vary in consistency:
- At positive temperatures, liquid formulations are used. This is enough for a forest walk.
- For semi-solids, a temperature of about 0 o is suitable. WITH.
- Solid ones are used in frosty weather.
Air temperature and snow conditions are indicated on the package.
Top Producers
Manufactured by renowned global manufacturers:
- Norwegian company SWIX operating in the market sporting goods since 1946 for the production of: paraffins, ointments, accessories, clothes, sports equipment.
- The Swiss company TOKO, founded in 1916, specializes in their production. Currently, the company has a good reputation among skiers and snowboarders.
- Finnish company Vauhti (which means "Speed"), which has been producing Vauhti since 1937. Currently known as a major equipment manufacturer.
lovers and professional athletes familiar with the products of these companies.
What is needed to apply the ointment?
In the recent past, apart from wooden, there were no types of inventory. They were protected from moisture by staining, the bottom was tarred. Today there are two types of skis:
- Plastic - with the addition of composite materials and alloys. They have a range of positive characteristics (perfectly glide, not subject to moisture).
- Combined - the base material of which is wood of various species and plastic, they do not need to be tarred.
But the opinion that notched skis do not need to be lubricated is erroneous. New plastic devices are lubricated with paraffin before going out on the track or for a walk. This tool is in all sports and online stores. The procedure is carried out as follows:
- The sliding surface, clean and dry, is rubbed with paraffin.
- With a special or home iron, as well as a knife blade, which is strongly heated for this, the paraffin is distributed over sliding surface.
- The pores of the plastic are filled with melted paraffin.
- The remains are removed with a scraper.
- Surfaces are polished with a rubbing cloth or a stiff nylon brush.
When heating paraffin, you need to carefully monitor the temperature. It should not exceed +200 ° C, otherwise the surface of the skis may burn out. It will take at least two hours to dry the paraffin.
Only after this procedure, ointments begin to be applied.
How to lubricate notched skis?
Owners of such models know that they practically do not need lubrication. But, if the crust is icy and the notches can no longer cope, while the weather is too warm, the sliding surface will have to be lubricated.
Instruction step by step
Lubrication should be applied as soon as the skis kick back. The instructions suggest practical advice for proper lubrication of notched skis:
- Initially, it is necessary to place a small amount of the composition on the cargo area.
- If the problem persists, slightly increase the application area towards the toe.
- Provided that the return is not completely eliminated, you need to add to the cargo area. It is designed for -2 / -4 o C.
A prudent athlete always has an ointment in stock. In this way, problems with recoil can be avoided - the run will succeed.
Important! Glide ointments are applied to the end and socks, and deductions are applied to the middle of the sliding surface. Fans of the classic move, skating - on the sliding surface.
When choosing skis, you need to know for what purpose they are purchased. This depends on the type of lubricant. In order not to get the opposite effect, it is important to use for the intended look. For notched skis, either do not buy, or only for grip, then a walk through the forest will leave a pleasant impression.
In order to comfortably run in a classic course, the skis must slide forward and “hold” back. Non-holding skis are a torment for a skier. we have already discussed in a separate article. Today we will tell you how to smear skis for a classic move so that there is no “recoil”. The process is very similar to preparing skating, but you need to additionally smear the holding area.
Where is the holding wax for skis applied?
Holding ointment is applied to the skis in the zone "pads". Last - the area under the boot and forward about 30 cm.
This image shows the approximate length of the last (depending on the length of the skis) for beginner skiers.
When choosing a pad, you should not accurately calculate centimeters and clearly follow the instructions. The ideal holding area is different for everyone.. Start with the recommendations on the diagrams, and then adjust, depending on the glide and ski holding.
Skis have “recoil” - increase the block forward.
Skis do not glide well and brake with ointment - reduce the block.
Important! Only adjust the block at the front of the ski. At the back, the holding ointment should reach a maximum of the heel of the boot.
Once you find your last length, mark it on your skis with a marker or sticker.
Quick preparation of classic skis
What do you need to prepare skis without an iron and other accessories?
- slip ointment for fast application
- holding ointment for quick application
In this method, everything is simple: the sliding area is smeared with sliding ointment, holding - with holding ointment. We wait 2 minutes and you can ride. Learn more about applying liquid slip waxes.
The method is very convenient and fast. But not as effective as preparing skis with solid ointments. A quick preparation of skis is enough for an average of 5 km. If you plan to ski more, then you need a different way to lubricate your skis.
Preparation of classic skis with hard waxes
The principle is the same, but a holding ointment is applied under the block, and the sliding zone is treated with paraffins using an iron. How to treat skis with paraffins we wrote in the article:.
What is needed to apply a holding ointment?
- solid holding ointment
- synthetic grinding
- masking tape (preferred but not required)
- sandpaper size 100 (preferred, but not required)
How to apply grip wax on skis?
Under the holding ointment, it is advisable to process the block with fine sandpaper. Ideal with 100 grains. Carry out such an operation only when you find a block for you. The rough plastic will hold the ointment better and it will last longer.
To make it more convenient to smear, you can mark the area of \u200b\u200bthe block with masking tape. So you will not stain the sliding surface of the ski with the holding ointment when you rub the ointment.
The ointment is applied in thin layers, each layer must be rubbed with a synthetic cork. It is better to apply 2-3 thin coats than one thick coat. A thick layer of ointment is difficult to evenly grind.
To increase the mileage covered with one application of the holding ointment, the primer layer can be applied under the iron. That is, first sandpaper, then melt a thin layer of ointment with an iron, and then everything is as usual.
Such processing of skis is enough for 50 km or more. If the weather has changed, then the old ointment must be removed and a new one applied according to the weather.
How to remove old grip wax from skis?
The old holding ointment is removed with a scraper. To do this, it is better to have a separate scraper so as not to stain the sliding surface with ointment.
After removing the ointment with a scraper, the residues are washed off with special solvents. The procedure is optional, but after 2-3 treatments it is better to completely clean the holding area using washes.
Go in for sports, move, travel and be healthy! 🙂
If you find an error, a typo, or you have something to discuss, write in the comments. We are always happy to communicate 🙂
25.07.2013
notch. To be or not to be?
It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer to this question. We can only give dry facts - most of the skiers of the entire planet ride skis with notches. The positive moment of using this type of skis is clear to everyone - issues with caring for them are limited only to packaging and transportation. The scheme "unpacked, got up, went" attracts a huge number of people.
The negative aspects of using skis with notches are no less obvious - really high-quality skiing on them is limited only to tracks with loose snow. Well, if you decide to improve the quality of skiing, then it is no longer possible to apply ointment to notched skis. What type of skis to choose is everyone's business. But you must clearly understand - what is your priority - carelessness or quality of skiing in any weather.
The following article will be useful for those who have made a choice in favor of skis without notches and have taken care of the question of how to care for them.
Ski maintenance kits.
2-4 jars of different ointments, a scraper and a grinding plug - this is the minimum set that is needed for proper ski care. In order to use the classic style of riding, you will need a holding ointment. She lubricates the space that is located under the block (part of the ski under the boot). This is done so that the skis do not go back during the kick-off.
Good for a beginner to start. It usually includes 4 jars of ointments. For the first experience, it is enough to lubricate the skis only under the block, applying them with a cork.
So, having lubricated the place under the block, the ointment must be gently rubbed with a tool specially designed for this -. As a result, you should get a shiny, even layer of ointment. If you suddenly have any problems and the layer is not quite uniform - do not worry - it will be enough to rub it additionally.
Notice one very important nuance. When you go skiing, be sure to take 2 tubes of ointment with you - one for less cold weather and one for warmer and a cork scraper. Next, we will consider typical cases of error with the choice of ointment.
1) Skis do not hold and slip back.
In this case, it is enough just to apply a layer of a warmer ointment and rub it well with a cork. This procedure can be done in just a few minutes.
2) Skis “slow down”
So they say in the case when they stop driving normally. Often this symptom is accompanied by sticking of snow or even ice (especially under the block). Professional athletes use the terms “sticky” (snow) and “icing” (ice) for this case. It is possible to correct the situation. However, it will take a little more effort and time than in the first case. First, use it to remove snow or ice. If you do not have a scraper at hand, then this can be done with other improvised means. For example, a tree branch, another ski, or even car keys. After the described procedure, you need to get rid of drops of moisture. This can be done with an ordinary glove, intensively rubbing the ski. Then the cork comes into play - a couple of minutes of active rubbing will give a result. Having finished with such a “heating” of the ointment, you can apply another one - more suitable for the weather. In 99% of cases, this technique will help to cope with the problem.
Real situation. It's minus 5 outside. How to lubricate skis in this weather?
Consider a situation where the temperature outside is minus 5 degrees. We will use . From the temperature regime of this set, you should choose a suitable ointment (blue ointment with a temperature range of - 2 ... - 8). Do not forget that you will definitely need to take 2 more jars of ointments with you, designed for "neighboring" temperature ranges. In our case, these will be purple ointment (0 ... -2) and green (-5 ... -12). In such a situation, you can change the ointment both in case of warming and in case of cooling.
After a walk, the ointment is removed with a scraper (or any other convenient plastic surface). You can finally remove the ointment with the help of cotton wool, which is moistened with a special one.
Liquid ointments for walking at positive temperatures
Often there is a situation when there is still a lot of snow on the street at a positive temperature. The skier uses the "warmest" ointment (0 ... - 2) and goes into battle. But here a problem arises - the skis do not hold, and he simply does not have a warmer ointment to solve the problem. At first glance, the situation is deadlocked. But the way out of it is as follows: it is enough to purchase an additional universal one. It is worth noting that handling this type of ointment will require some experience and more time. However, the pleasure of riding is worth it!
The main feature of applying a liquid ointment is that all work must be carried out in a warm room and not in any way on the street. The layer should be uniform with excess removed. After application, rub the ointment well with a scraper. The main difficulty in working with liquid ointments is their consistency. Therefore, apply it very carefully, and rinse immediately after riding.
Economical ski lubrication kits.
Every self-respecting manufacturer necessarily has in its assortment inexpensive kits that contain 2-3 tubes of solid ski waxes and rubbing. Sometimes another tube of liquid ointment and a scraper are added to it to remove it. For beginners, this is an ideal option to acquire certain skills and solve problems with ski lubrication for several years.
Paraffins or slip ointments.
The use of glide waxes makes sense if you already have insufficient travel on your skis and need more high speed movement. Absolutely all modern plastic skis can glide on the snow without additional treatments. This glide is usually enough for forest skiing. Well, if you fell in love with skis so much that you are going to take part in races, then you need to purchase not only, but also, and most likely. But that's a completely different story.
Short review 13 running belt bags, in which we point out important details and give recommendations for use. Each of the presented waist bags is great for sports, but each has its own specific tasks and features.
12.09.2018
If you are a leisurely skier in the winter, or even an amateur athlete, then you are very likely to use additional funds to improve the performance of your skis, such as paraffins, waxes, accelerators and emulsions. These tools can significantly improve the glide of your skis, thereby increasing your motivation if you are an amateur or improve speed performance and time to cover the distance if you are training for results.
04.02.2018
To achieve a given standard for cross-country skiing, it is necessary not only to train long and hard, but also to use professional ski equipment and accessories. First of all, pay attention to skis for skating or classic skiing, because their weight, dynamic characteristics and the quality of the sliding surface determine how long you can maintain a high pace.
02.02.2018
Sports should always be as high quality and comfortable as possible, only then will a high result be achieved without the slightest disappointment. A lot depends on sports equipment. Running clothing is breathable, retains heat, actively wicks away moisture, keeps you dry, protects from wind, and is ultra-light. Running is enough efficient view sports, easy and affordable, so there are only more people wishing to lead a healthy lifestyle, respectively, the demand for sportswear is only increasing. Running in heavy jackets that are not able to regulate and maintain the correct temperature would be simply impossible, very hard and hot. That is why today there are many different sportswear, capable of giving athletes maximum pleasure while jogging, not restricting movements, giving lightness and airiness. It is especially important to take care of your clothes when you have to run on long distances. Low-quality synthetic clothing will definitely provoke " Greenhouse effect”, sweat will be more strongly released, moisture will begin to accumulate and lead to severe itching, burning, discomfort while running. Good mood the athlete will instantly evaporate, such a workout can definitely be considered spoiled. Moreover, it is unlikely that there will be a desire to repeat such an experience. Cotton also causes similar troubles, since such a fabric quickly gets wet and dries for a long time, respectively, even in extreme heat a person can quickly catch a cold. The athlete will not get any pleasure from running, he will be constantly overcome by the desire to quickly stop exercising and take off his hated clothes. Plus, it is heavy jackets that will lead to athlete fatigue, and not physical exercise. So, the privilege is definitely on the side of high-quality polyester jackets. If a running jacket meets the following requirements, then it is chosen as correctly as possible: It has excellent durability, but at the same time its weight is completely insignificant. The texture is pleasant to the touch. Regulates the temperature regime in accordance with the season. Protects the user's body from any atmospheric precipitation. It is somewhat cool in the jacket at the beginning of the distance, but at the end of the workout, the athlete feels only warmth, coziness and increased comfort. A sports windbreaker is selected according to size, it should fit perfectly to the body, not restrict movement, be comfortable and practically merge with its owner, be completely imperceptible. High-quality models retain their shape for a long time, bright and saturated shades, durable, protected from ultraviolet exposure. The excellent quality of the summer windbreaker will give you the opportunity to enjoy every movement, soaring ease, incredible comfort throughout your workout. Dynamic natures will always choose from a wide range of suitable models in style and color scheme. If you wish, you can even experiment with the image, why not? A sufficient selection of sports windbreakers gives every chance to assume that the planned business will be crowned with success. Despite the sometimes aggressive external environment, the athlete will always remain self-confident, surrounded by unshakable comfort. Summer running windbreaker Mac in a Sac Ultra is a worthy choice. The fact is that adherents healthy lifestyle life, professional athletes, amateurs cannot miss training, therefore, they go for a run at any time of the year and in different weather - high humidity, strong wind, cool. In this case, you can not do without light sports windbreakers - an excellent summer option, the product "breathes", regulates the temperature balance, and is easy to use. A striking example of such jackets is the Mac in a Sac Ultra model. The windbreaker is made of high quality materials, polyester. It has a small moisture resistance, sufficient to protect against drizzling rain. Incredibly light - when not needed, it neatly folds into a bag, able to always protect from wind and rain, it is not blown. Athletes only dream of such a fashionable product, available in the most daring and vibrant colors. The material used is not capable of provoking an allergy. For convenience, the jacket is equipped with front pockets with zippers, reflectors, a ventilated back, and an adjustable hood. The weight of the windbreaker in the bag is 185 grams. These garments come with a two-year warranty, super light jacket suitable for men and women, designed for use in summer, winter and autumn.
Skis with a notch are specially produced for beginner athletes. They are designed to immediately provide easy skiing, without additional processing and preparation. Many owners are sure that in such a situation, a notch is not required. They are already prepared for use during production. But such processing in any situation will simplify skating.
Walking models of sports equipment with a notch are initially focused on a simple walk through the forest or riding along a ski track laid by amateurs. The location of the notch in the middle of the surface provides in itself a sliding stroke with an easy glide. How much additional processing is required in such a situation and is it necessary with a notch additionally?
New products don't really need this. But during use, the notch is gradually erased, worsening driving performance.
Attention! To restore the original sliding properties, it is recommended to treat the surface with various means. This will help you stay in any weather, including melting snow.
The range includes different types of lubricants for application.
Lubrication types
The most common and easiest to use option is becoming. It is sold in lump form and in a spray can. To form an even and smooth surface, the composition is applied several times, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly. This will hide the slightest cracks and irregularities on the surface.
Depending on the preferred riding style, additionally recommended:
- for holding, produced in solid and liquid form, packaged in jars;
- means that improve the quality of sliding, based on microcrystals with a melting point of up to 160 degrees.
The choice of type of product depends on the riding surface and the intended mode of movement. Sliding options increase the quality of movement without delaying the move. Holding, excluding slippage, on the contrary, form the opportunity to linger in place, creating a strong push.
Attention! Such processing is required repeatedly during the use of skis. With frequent use, the application is carried out several times a season, especially after riding on a crust or on a melted surface, partially covered with moisture.
The method of how to properly lubricate with a notch is chosen depending on the purpose of skiing.
How to remove old ointment
To obtain the effect of leveling the surface, the previous grease must be carefully removed before application. To properly remove the remaining protective layer, the surface of each is wiped with a warm, damp cloth. An iron is used for heating.
When processing a wooden surface, the use of this type of heating can last up to several seconds. Plastic products are cleaned more carefully. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures damages surfaces and should be as short as possible.
Where is the holding ointment applied?
Depending on the type of lubricant chosen, the methods of applying it differ. Sliding options are applied simply to the entire surface. Applying a layer of holding means requires taking into account some nuances.
They are applied to the so-called block, that is, the middle part of the canvas, from the heel to the fastening. This area has a length depending on the model (60-70 centimeters). After application, the composition is distributed evenly with a rubbing plug until a shiny and even layer is formed. After each skiing, it is recommended to wash off the composition.
Application rules, ski lubrication devices
The formation of a reliable layer is created by observing the application rules:
- the surface is thoroughly cleaned;
- the ski is placed vertically, with the side of application of the composition;
- it is important to properly cover the entire surface with the agent, which will ensure a uniform ski run;
- the application is carried out in several layers, each of which is thoroughly dried beforehand.
To facilitate the work, specialized ski lubrication devices are used. This can be a machine on which products are firmly attached, an iron to secure the connection to the surface.
Any skis, including walking ones with a notch, after timely processing, receive improved running properties for leisurely walks and sports.
Chief editor of the magazine "Skiing".
I. Should I buy notched skis?
This is a question to which, alas, there is no single answer. I can only tell you quite definitely - it is notched skis that are used by more than half of the population of our planet on skis, and this figure, you see, says a lot. The advantages of using notched skis are more than obvious - you will never need to bother yourself with the question of whether how to coat skis. Agree, such a statement of the question captivates - he took the skis, got up and went.
The cons are just as obvious. Such skis will hold well on soft loose snow, and will not hold on more or less hard tracks. And, the most offensive, if skis with a notch do not hold, it is almost impossible to smear them. It's up to you to choose skis with notches or skis that involve the use of ski wax. Most importantly, do not deny yourself this miracle - the opportunity to slide along the spring track with your companion or companion, as in this case, these elderly Finns in Vuokatti. Please note that the husband and wife are dressed in the same costumes. Abroad, it is now fashionable - with this option, family members (especially if with children) look like one team.
I will say right away that I am not a fan of using these skis and from an early age I taught my children to smear skis. This is a more difficult option, which guarantees, however, normal riding in any weather. However, the final choice is still up to you, and the article below is addressed to those who have made their choice in favor of "regular" skis, and are faced with the question of how to spread them.
II. Ski lubrication kit of two, three, sometimes four jars of ointment, rubbing plug, scraper. This is the most minimal kit you may need to lubricate your skis. To ski in a classic style, the skis must be smeared under the block with a holding ointment. The block is the middle part of the ski, starting from the heel of the boot and located 15-25 cm upwards from the mount. This middle part of the ski (block) must be smeared with holding ointment so that your skis do not slip when you push your foot back.
This figure shows just the middle part of the ski, which must be smeared with ski ointment. Skiers call this ski area a block. As you can see, for short skis less than 180 cm long (children, teenagers, not very tall adult women), the block should be 60 - 65 cm long. Higher skis over 180 cm long should have a longer block - 70 - 75 cm. For the first steps, a set of inexpensive domestic or imported ointments is quite suitable for you - it usually consists of four briquettes, sometimes jars made of thick metal foil or soft plastic. You will also need a synthetic rubbing cork. It is quite enough to buy a set of 4 ointments (for example, domestic Vista, Uktus, Festa or imported ones - Swix, Toko, Briko, Start, Holmenkol, etc.) and smear skis only under the block, rubbing them with a cork. Great example economical ski oiling kit, named after the king of skis, multiple world champion and Olympic Games Gunde Svana (Gounde pack). Includes red ski wax (+1 - 0), purple ski wax (0 - 3), blue ski wax (-1 - 7) and synthetic stopper rub. This set is enough for the eyes for all occasions, except for the spring "wet" days, but about the "wet" days - a little lower.
So, having smeared the ski under the block with ointment, it (ointment) should be rubbed with a rubbing stopper. Ideally, after rubbing, you should get an even, slightly shiny layer.
If for some reason an even layer does not work out, do not bother with this circumstance, it is quite enough to simply smooth the ointment.
Recipe for lubricating skis with solid ointments. You smear the ski with a jar or briquette of ointment, and then rub it with a rubbing cork until a uniform shiny layer appears. Now about one more nuance. If you are going skiing in the woods, it is advisable to always take with you a warmer and colder ointment than the one you just put on, as well as a cork and a scraper. Consider the two most typical cases of missing the ointment.
1. Skis are not held, or, as skiers say, “give away”,
that is, they do not allow you to push confidently, when you push with your foot, they slide back. In this case, it is enough to put a warmer ointment under the block on top of the old one and rub it with a cork, and the situation will be corrected - you can again enjoy riding. It will take you only a couple of minutes to correct the lubrication.
2. Skis, as skiers say, "stupid", that is, they don’t ride at all, and sometimes they are also covered with ice or snow under the block - in that middle part of the ski where you applied too warm ointment. Skiers call this situation “sticky” if snow sticks to the wax, or icing if ice forms on the wax. There is a way out, you only need a little large quantity time.
So, if ice or snow has formed under the block, peel them off with a scraper. If there is no scraper, this can be done with a branch, a point ski pole, the key to the apartment, the edge of another ski, etc. After that, intensively rub the ski block first with a glove, removing the lubricant from the remaining snow and moisture droplets, and then intensively with a cork, warming up and, as it were, drying the ointment. You will have to apply much more effort compared to rubbing in a warm room. Now that the ointment has dried and warmed up, you can put an additional layer of colder ointment on top of the unsuccessful lubrication. As a rule, in 99 percent of cases, this technique corrects the situation and allows you to continue walking through the forest.
III. Consider a specific example: how to smear skis at minus five degrees?
For example, the temperature outside is minus five degrees. You have a set of ski ointments "Visti", consisting of five briquettes. The most logical option for lubricating skis at minus five degrees below zero will be smeared with blue ointment - 2 - 8. However, remember Golden Rule: on a ski trip, you should always take two briquettes (jars) of border ointments in your pocket or pouch. In this case, it will be - 0 - 2 (purple ointment) and - 5 - 12 (light green). This way, whether it's warm or cold, you can adjust your lubrication and enjoy your skiing.
After returning home, remove the old wax from the ski with any plastic scraper (a piece of a plastic ruler, an old audio cassette case, etc.). After that, you can safely apply new grease to the remnants of the old grease. If you want to clean the skis clean (which, in general, is completely optional), this can be done with a piece of cotton soaked in gasoline or turpentine. If funds allow, buy a normal plastic scraper and a bottle of branded cleanser.
1. Remove the main amount of ointment from the sliding surface of the ski with a scraper.
2. Spray the remaining wax on the ski with a can of remover.
3. Wipe off wax residue from the ski with a piece of cotton wool, cloth or branded tissue.
IV. A set of liquid ointments, a wash, a scraper for skiing in positive weather.
As I said, four inexpensive cans of ointment, a scraper and a grinding plug will be enough for you for almost all occasions. But there are situations when there is still a lot of snow, and the air temperature is already steadily positive. Sunday, sun, drops drive you outside with skis, you smear yourself with the warmest of the ointment blocks you have (say, VISTI 0-2 or Swix + 1 - 0), and the skis ... categorically do not hold, “give away”. It's a shame? And how! And, nevertheless, there is a way out of this situation, and it is quite simple - buy a tube of universal liquid ski wax (skiers sometimes call liquid ski wax klisters) and get a bottle of wash (gasoline, kerosene, turpentine). I want to warn you right away: buying liquid ski waxes will put you in the category of slightly more advanced skiers, because handling them will require a little more fuss and experience. But the gain in the form of comfortable skiing on the spring track will be simply incomparable. p>
So, you will completely manage with a set of two tubes of liquid ointment - red (plus) and purple (zero and a slight minus). We smear ourselves with red ointment at any positive air temperature, and purple - at zero and a slight minus. It is important to understand here that spring snow is almost never soft and fluffy, like in winter. As a rule, in spring it consists of hard large snow-ice granules. Skiers call this snow firn. For such icy snow in sub-zero weather, you need a purple klister.
Universal liquid klister from the company "Swix" for skiing in any spring weather. The manufacturer orients it to all temperature ranges - from +3 to -5 degrees. That is, this universal klister replaces both the red liquid ointment, which works in the plus range, and the purple one, which works on hard icy firn at sub-zero temperatures. Good thing for skiing on sunny spring days. Along the way, advice: if such an ointment does not hold, the skis give back, when pushed, they roll back, you can try to put another small layer on top or increase the length of the block up - this is guaranteed to help. If the skis are dull, they “cling”, you need to be patient a little, ride. As a rule, the excess liquid ski wax on the spring icy snow soon disappears, and skiing becomes more comfortable.
Another versatile klister from Swix. The difference from the one above is that it is focused on a slightly warmer temperature (+10 - 3). But, in general, both of these klisters have the same purpose - to be your lifesaver during a spring skiing trip on a sun-drenched track. Because in spring you ski either on hard firn snow or on soft, “wet”, “flowing” ski tracks. So, you simply need such a klister for such days.
How to smear skis with liquid ski wax? This should be done in a warm room, evenly squeezing greasy drops of ski ointment onto the block (middle part) of the ski and then rubbing this ointment with a scraper.
How to smear skis with liquid ski wax? Apply ski wax in rather greasy strokes to the last of the ski and then evenly spread the wax over the ski with a scraper. After rubbing with a scraper, you should get a layer of ointment about a millimeter thick. After this, the skis must be taken outside for 3 to 5 minutes and the ointment is frozen. If you leave a warm room and immediately get on your skis, you can peel off the ointment at the first steps in hard snow.
And now about why you have to fiddle a little more with liquid ski waxes compared to solid ones (jars or briquettes). The fact is that liquid ski ointments, which in their consistency are very reminiscent of condensed milk, tend to stain hands and clothes, and in order to avoid these sad consequences, after training, the skis should be immediately cleaned with a scraper, and then with a wash. The second option is to pack the skis in a case, bring them home and clean them there. And yet, most skiers prefer to clean their skis immediately after the end of the workout - there are fewer soiled clothes and sticky hands, and the ski bag does not get dirty from the inside. Mandatory necessity cleaning skis after a walk is perhaps the only inconvenience of using liquid ointments. But the constant companions of liquid ointments are usually the spring sun, a wonderful ski track and a wonderful mood. So, believe me, the game is worth the candle.
V. Economy kits of ointments for lubricating skis.
As a rule, all leading manufacturers put on sale economical ski wax kits containing two or three cans of solid wax and a grinding stopper.
Another example of an economical ski wax set - even cheaper than the Gunde set and even more versatile. As you can see, there is no purple ointment in this set, and the rubbing cork is connected here with a metal scraper-cycle. With such a scraper it is convenient to clean sticky ice or snow from skis.
Sometimes this kit also includes one or two tubes of liquid ointment, a scraper. It happens that this kit is packaged in an inexpensive waist bag (skiers say “pouch”), and sometimes it also includes a spray bottle with a wash. This is very a good option in one fell swoop to solve all your problems with ski lubrication for the next few years, so be sure to use it if possible.
A very good, slightly more “advanced” set of ointments and accessories for lubricating skis from Swix. In addition to three ointments, natural cork and a plastic scraper, it also contains a very convenient cosmetic bag with a zipper. In such a bag, ointments will never stain your clothes, and it will be much more difficult for them to get lost among your luggage.
VI. Glide ointments, or, as they are also called in Russia, paraffins for lubricating skis.
This is an area that I strongly discourage you from trespassing. Trust me, modern plastic skis glide beautifully over the snow without any special treatment. This slip is enough for your eyes for any, even the longest walks through the forest in any weather. Therefore, you can forget about the ends of the skis (that is, what is located above and below relative to the block - the middle part of the ski) and do not process them with anything.
