How to remove old grease from skis. Features of the choice of holding ski ointments

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 classic move so that there is no "recoil". The process is very similar to the preparation of skating skis, 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 desirable 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 do not stain the holding ointment sliding surface skis 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 🙂

24.07.2014

Ski ointments holding. Care of cross-country skis and sliding surfaces.

Before using skis, they need to be processed. Skis are prepared according to weather conditions. In order to avoid recoil during the classical course, the skis under the block are lubricated with holding ointments.

For recreational skis, the block on which holding ointments are applied starts from the heel of the boot, and continues for forty to fifty centimeters towards the toe of the ski. In cold weather, the ointment is applied in a very thin layer over a large surface - 50-55 cm. For skiing in warm weather, the ointment should be applied in a thick layer, or more correctly, several layers at a distance of 35-40 cm.

Preparation of the sliding surface of the skis.

The block where the holding ointment will be applied can be processed with sandpaper. This will protect the ointment from quick erasure, as it does not adhere well to a smooth surface. The ointment applied to the treated surface will stay at a greater distance. Then an ointment is applied to this place, which is suitable for these weather conditions.

Applying ointments.

Solid ointments.

For lovers of skiing, it is enough to have just a few. This type of ointment is often available in aluminum foil or plastic jars. Being in a warm room, release a small part of the ointment from the foil and rub it on the sliding surface under the block. After that, smooth the ointment with a synthetic rubbing to a thin even layer. Then take the skis to fresh air for airing. If you need to apply another layer of ointment, then do it already on the street.

For not very cold weather, blue ointment of any brand is suitable. Usually blue ointments are designed for temperatures from minus ten to minus two degrees.

In colder weather, you need to use green ointment, or just apply blue in a thinner layer. The warmer the weather, the thicker the layer of ointment should be. But the ointment should not be applied immediately in a thick layer. It is better to increase the thickness of the ointment by applying several new layers.

When the air temperature is close to zero, purple ointment is used. It is also used in colder conditions, with old coarse snow or with high humidity.

At temperatures above zero, use red or yellow ointments. They belong to semi-solid ointments. They are produced in the same form as the rest, but slightly differ in their consistency - softer. They should be applied to a sliding surface very carefully so that clots of ointment do not form, which will be difficult to grind to a thin layer.

Klisters

Solid ointments not always effective. For example, when icy, they are quickly erased and do not always perform their functions well. In such situations, skiers use. The use of klisters requires extreme accuracy and certain skills.

Klisters are applied to the sliding surface in small drops, and then leveled with a plastic scraper, and rubbed, usually with the fingers. It is possible to use rubbing for these purposes, but it will be saturated with liquid ointments and will become unsuitable for use when applying solid ointments.

Klisters cannot be used on fresh snow or temperatures around zero degrees, even if solid ointments can no longer perform their functions. In this case, it is better to apply a layer of klister, cool it, and apply a layer of semi-solid or solid ointment on top. After sufficient cooling of the skis on fresh air test the lubrication on a flat or gentle slope. If there is kickback, wipe the skis dry and apply another coat of the same wax. If this does not help to remove the recoil, apply a layer of softer ointment.

Instead of the usual solid and liquid holding ointments, universal quick application ointments can be used. In this case, you will need only two ointments - for warm and cold weather. These ointments are liquid, come in a package with an applicator, and are very convenient to use. But they can not always provide a secure hold, especially in those conditions when the use of liquid ointments is recommended.

The use of express ointments.

With the help of an applicator or spray, it is applied to a sliding surface. After the solvent has evaporated, it should be triturated. This can be omitted if the ointment has laid down in an even layer. Before the next use of skis, wash off the old layer, allow the skis to dry, and apply a fresh layer of ointment.
If you purchased skis with a notch against recoil, then they do not need to be smeared with holding ointments. In order to prevent snow from sticking to the notch, it is treated with a special silicone-based liquid. Under certain conditions (ice, coarse snow), such skis will not be able to provide a secure hold, and nothing can be done about it. Skis outside the holding area also require preparation and maintenance.

Ski care.

New skis can be skied several times without much maintenance. But soon a light coating may form on the sliding surface, which is a sign of its oxidation. In this case, you need to use slip paraffins. The easiest way is to use . This type of paraffin comes in a package with an applicator. Has a liquid consistency. Simply apply it from the heel of the boot to the heel of the ski and from the front edge of the holding area to the toe of the ski, then let dry. After that, you can safely go for a ride. Repeat the procedure every time you see "bald patches" on the sliding surface.

It is not necessary to apply slip paraffin to the area cleaned with sandpaper. Also, do not apply holding ointment outside the cleaned area.

No need to try to wash off the paraffin wax with a solvent. Its layer itself wears out with use. It just needs to be updated from time to time. If you want to clean the surface of slip paraffin, then you will need. With such a brush, you can not only remove the ointment, but also remove worn-out old areas. If you have purchased the nylon part, you can polish the slip paraffin layer, which will improve the quality of the slide.

It is advisable to clean the skis of ointments and dirt several times a season and soak them with paraffin. This is a rather difficult process that requires certain skills and some tools (scraper, iron, paraffins, brushes), so you can do it at a ski preparation service center, or buy everything you need in the section.

Outcome.

The minimum necessary ski maintenance kit consists of several holding waxes, one glide wax, synthetic rubbing, washing and a combination brush. This set will last you more than one season.

For more professional care you will need an iron, a set of paraffins, a scraper, a set of brushes. By contacting the service center several times a season, you will save your money and time.

Latest publications

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 of the highest quality and comfortable, only then will it be achieved high score 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 suitable models in style and color. 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 lightweight jacket suitable for men and women, designed for use in summer, winter and autumn.

Ski waxes (paraffins) help to speed up the slide or prevent kickback during backward movement. There are expensive and budget options on the market, but the price is not the main criterion when buying. More important is the type of skis (wood, plastic), air temperature, snow conditions.

Ski waxes and paraffins

By type, the ointment can be a solid stick, spray, gel, paste or liquid. Solid formulations are applied heated. In addition to paraffin ointments, there are compositions based on microcrystals.

Universal ski wax (wax) suitable for large temperature ranges. Solid ointments are applied at low temperatures, semi-solid - thaw, zero temperature, liquid ski ointments are needed when the air is heated above zero degrees. The colder it is outside, the thinner the layer of holding ointment should be. In the thaw or spring, the adhesive is applied to a small part of the sliding surface under the block (deflection).

Rex ski waxes are used by the pros

The best solution is Swix and Briko. In second place are Toko, Ski Go, Rex. These ointments are made by Swiss, Norwegian and Finnish firms. The domestic manufacturer "Dynamo" (Ointments Visti, Marathon-XXI, Temp) is cheaper, but the technologies developed since 1956 allow us to keep the brand. Since 2002, the Russian company has updated its range and released ointments for speed run to new requirements.

Russian ski wax MARATHON-XXI

Ski paraffin ointments are low-fluoric, high-fluoric and simple. Paraffins with a high fluorine content are much more expensive, and they are needed for spring snow. The composition may contain graphite (relieves static stress) and iron oxides.

Applying ski wax

In the instructions, the process of applying ointment to skis looks complicated. Requires a ski machine, tools, skills in such operations as cycling, priming, applying "weather" paraffin. Work for 30-60 minutes, and even from the smell you need to ventilate.

Sometimes everything is very simple: I stuck a wax strip and removed the protective layer

Everything is easier in life. Moreover, if you just want to ride, and not drive for distillation with.

Experienced skiers first sand the block with fine sandpaper. Then apply the ointment in two layers. Each layer is prepared like this:

• solid paraffin is applied with a hot iron;
• when the ointment has cooled, rub it with a cork.

And sometimes you have to work with the iron!

Ski ointment should not be applied in a thick layer, otherwise lumps will appear on the surface of the ski after rubbing.

Ski wax for plastic skis

Plastic skis must be lubricated before skiing, otherwise they will “give away”. Moreover, two compounds are needed for plastic: “slips” (usually paraffins) and “holds” (adhesions). For a classic move, the nose and heel of the ski are treated with sliding ointment. The holding compound is needed so that there is no back sliding (recoil). Under skating the entire surface of plastic skis is smeared with paraffin.

Temperature conditions ski waxes

The color of the ointment from any manufacturer usually indicates a certain temperature regime. For example, red liquid VISTI is used at +4, and light green at -20 g.

Ski wax for wooden skis

Today, wooden skis are a thing of the past. Although they have an advantage: even without lubrication, they can be ridden. But it’s better to lubricate old skis with ointment for sliding. In this case, ski wax should be applied to the central part of the deflection (that is, under the block). The deflection is the main sliding part of the ski. The length of the block is 50 cm from the heel of the boot in the mount towards the toe of the ski.

Good old VISTI has been known to skiers since 1956

Ointment for wooden skis can be bought inexpensively. For example, they are well suited for the Luch tree, MVIS. Ideally, choose the composition for the temperature so that the ointment “rolls”. You need to apply a thin layer and rub with a rub. “One layer is enough, but two layers are better” - this skier's saying should also be remembered.

How to wash off ski wax

Remove the remnants of the ointment from the surface of the skis with a plastic scraper or a cloth with a solvent. The old ointment is removed as follows: the skis are rubbed with a thin layer of paraffin, rubbed, and then washed off with a rag soaked in solvent.

Ski wax is used to improve gliding on snow and prevent rollback during shocks. In stores you can find many different options, differing not only in composition, consistency, but also in price. However, cost is not important criterion when choosing the best option. The main things to consider are the type of skis, the condition of the snow cover and the air temperature.

Release form

Ski ointments and paraffins can be of different textures and shapes:

• hard block;
• gel;
• spray;
• liquid;
• paste.

If the ointment is in solid form, then it should be warmed up before use. Paraffin products are suitable for amateurs, but microcrystals are used for professional purposes.

Different weather conditions require the use of different texture products. If you need a universal remedy, then it is better to purchase wax. If the temperature is below zero, then it is better to use semi-solid paraffins. In the thaw, liquid ointment will be the best solution.

The layer of ointment should be thinner if it is cold outside. In the spring, it is better not to apply the product to the entire surface of the skis, but to limit yourself to a small area.

Briko and Briko are considered the best examples for ski surface treatment. A popular option is Swix ski wax. How to apply such products is described below, and it does not take much time. However, their cost will not suit everyone. If you need to choose a high-quality, but inexpensive ointment, you can pay attention to the domestic manufacturer - Dynamo. Great experience and developments in the field of sporting goods brought the company to the proper level.

Application of ointments

There are ski waxes for sliding and holding. In classic riding, it is necessary to treat the front and back of the skis with slip agents. To reduce recoil, ski holding waxes are used, which are applied in the center.

The choice of means is justified by the style and method of skating. If skis are purchased in order to usefully spend the weekend, then the costs will be minimal. But with professional races, processing will be required frequent.

The minimum processing includes the following steps:

1. Cleaning the base of the skis.
2. Application of paraffins.
3. Polishing.

How to apply

To enjoy winter skiing, it is important to know how to use ski wax. Sometimes the attached instructions require too complicated actions and additional equipment. However, experienced skiers argue that the process can be simplified.

First you need to sand the block. Next, the ointment is applied in two passes:

1. Hard paraffin is applied with a hot iron.
2. After cooling, rub with a cork.

It is important to avoid applying a thick layer. Otherwise, lumps appear after rubbing. Also, when used at home, the smell may disturb, but when aired, it quickly disappears. It is important to prudently close the floors so as not to stain the coating with paraffin. Ski wax can leave a stubborn grease stain.

Sliding aids

Paraffins are very popular as slip lubricants. However, professional athletes also use additional devices: emulsions and accelerators. Such funds are spent very quickly, but they are not cheap. Therefore, if only amateur trips to the park are planned, then you can do without them. It is worth considering that, despite the fact that paraffin has an unlimited shelf life, it is better not to take it for future use. Depending on the conditions, another option may be needed.

If the air is dry and the humidity is less than 50%, then classic paraffins will do. With high humidity and thaw, it is better to use fluorinated ones. In this case, the choice of funds is unlimited. Can be replaced with an emulsion, gel or spray. They are fairly easy to apply. It is enough to spray them or use the applicator. After that, the skis are dried, warmed up with a hair dryer and polished. This method takes little time, but the ointments are consumed quickly.

Ski holding

These products are available in liquid and solid form. The holding ointment performs the following functions:

1. Allows the skier to push off. In this case, under the middle part of the ski, increased pressure is formed, and the ointment adheres to the snow.
2. Does not slow down sliding. As you move, the pressure decreases.

Amateur riding does not require complex application. Ski wax must be suitable for the weather conditions. In the case of budget options, you should choose a temperature range 3-4 degrees lower than expected on the street. If the weather is lower and the skis are slowing down, then a product with a lower indicator should be applied on top. If the coating is excessively slippery, then an ointment designed for low temperatures is required.

amateur ski trips should stock up on 3-4 jars of ointment. Temperature range - from +3 to -15. Before applying a new layer, it is recommended to remove the remains of the old one. For this, special washes are provided.

Solid and liquid ointments

Ski ointment, supplied in a liquid state, is called a clyster. It is applied on both sides of the groove in a thin layer. Then it is necessary to evenly distribute with a thin scraper. Clyster can be used at sub-zero and plus temperatures. However, it should be noted that the tool stains the case. Therefore, before going outside, skis should be wrapped in a plastic bag. After riding, the ointment begins to drain. It must be removed with a scraper.

At sub-zero temperatures, it is better to use ointments in solid form. But when using them, the following troubles may appear:

1. Podlip. Snow sticking occurs if the outside temperature is above zero.
2. Icing. Ice crystals freeze on skis. The situation arises if weather conditions portend a thaw.
3. Excessive braking. If the condition of the snow cover differs on the main track and the normal track, then poor gliding is possible.

Preparing plastic skis

There are a wide variety of products available for treating wood surfaces. Ski wax for plastic skis is also available. But the main tool is paraffin. Their role is different:

1. Sliding lubricant - paraffin.
2. Means of holding - ski ointment.

Notched plastic skis only require glide wax. However, holding means can be added under the last. Paraffins and ointments are selected depending on the temperature range.

How to apply ski wax on plastic skis:

1. Dry and clean the surface.
2. Paraffin is rubbed with vigorous movements using a cork or a special iron. Be especially careful not to burn the ski.
3. Excess is removed with a scraper.
4. The surface is rubbed with a sponge.

The holding ointment is applied under the block, and the skis are taken out into the street to harden. Only then can they be used.

Required Tools

Any professional skier has a number of care products. sports equipment. It is not necessary for an amateur athlete to have a whole arsenal, but it is desirable to have basic tools. If the skis are made of plastic, then you need to purchase a special iron, scraper, paraffin and nylon brush.

If skiing attracts and is supposed to go skiing regularly, you should purchase the following tools:

1. Plastic scraper. Needed to remove excess paraffin. It is better to choose rounded. It cleans the grooves better.
2. Nylon brush. Required for hot paraffin application.
3. Fiberlen. It is used as a material for finishing polishing.
4. Sandpaper. It will be needed for sanding wooden skis so that the ointments hold better.
5. Metal brush. Useful only for professionals to remove the old structure. Fans don't need to buy.
6. Wash. Used to remove old funds. Recommended for purchase, even if skis are rarely used.
7. Rubbing cork. Designed for leveling ointments. Cork is used with paraffins, and plastic is used with ointments.

In addition to special tools, skiers cannot do without accessories. In order not to stain clothes with ointments, it is better to carry them in a case.

Required kit

Depending on the level of training and the frequency of skiing, each skier should have a certain set of ointments. For walks in a park or forest, it is enough to assemble a minimum set. You will need holding ointments, a scraper and a wash. It is enough to purchase 3-4 jars of the product, which vary in temperature.

For full ski care with regular use, you will need an extended kit. At the same time, you can even take part in competitions and use skis in any weather without losing glide. Should be purchased:

1. 4-5 jars of ointments.
2. A set of various paraffins.
3. Ski iron.
4. Wash.
5. Scraper.
6. brush.

For professional purposes, it is required to supplement the kit with holding ointments with fluoride, accelerators, knurling, emulsions and sprays.

Conclusion

Skiing is quite a popular phenomenon. Professional athletes have specially trained people on their staff who prepare skis for competitions. Fans have to take care of sports equipment themselves. In order for the skis to glide better and walks give real pleasure, it is necessary to use special ointments and paraffins. Their use is not difficult, but significantly increases the patency. When choosing, it is worth considering the material of manufacture of skis and the recommended temperature range.

Do not purchase funds in reserve. The necessary set consists of 3-4 jars. Be sure to buy a scraper and a wash.

Today we will share with you general information on ointments, lubricants and ski preparation. What a beginner should know in terms of how to prepare skis, what is needed for this, how often it needs to be done. Regardless of what kind of skis they are, in most cases they need to be lubricated.

Do budget skis need to be lubricated?

Budget skis, that is, at a price of up to 5,000 rubles, you do not need to lubricate. The fact is that skis are made from two types of materials: extruded polyethylene and sintered. The slipper, which is made using Extruded Base technology, almost does not absorb. Such a ski glides more on its texture. Sintered Base is a more expensive and more complex technology. Such a surface has pores that can absorb paraffin. Thus, paraffin works: in the process of work, it comes out of these very pores. There is no point in lubricating cheap skis - the lubricant on them will not last long.

Are classic and skating skis lubricated the same way?

And it lubricates differently. Both types of skis have a sliding surface that lubricates the same under equal weather conditions, but classic skis also have a block on which a holding ointment is applied.

Is it possible to do ski preparation at home or do I have to go to the service?

You can cook skis at home. But for this it is necessary to purchase equipment that will allow you to work with skis. From a minimum, an iron is needed - in order to apply paraffin using the hot method.

An ordinary household iron will not work here, it is absolutely impossible to work with such an iron, it is for completely different purposes.

Profile - a special device that is mounted on the table and allows you to fix the ski with the sliding surface up. In this position, the skis need to be prepared. At least two brushes: steel with a fine pile and nylon, soft. Steel is needed in order to clean the ski before applying paraffin and clean the paraffin after application - to open the pores. After that, a soft nylon brush is used to polish the sliding surface, making it even more slippery. You also need a plastic scraper for the initial removal of paraffin after it has been applied and cooled. Paraffin must enter the pores, and it must be removed from the surface of the skis. What we have now listed is necessary for the preparation of skating skis.

To prepare classic skis, you also need a cork for rubbing the holding ointment on the block and a wash. It is very difficult to remove an old and dirty holding ointment with anything other than a wash. The old holding ointment must be removed before applying a new one. A wash is a special solution, quite caustic, which is able to corrode holding ointment, resins and complex contaminants. This is the bare minimum for a home.

Why is it better to prepare skis in a service?

There is a certain sense in buying all this equipment if big family and everyone is skiing. If a person is seriously interested in skiing, then it makes sense to buy in order to “wax” yourself and your friends. I would still always turn to the service, there the equipment is more professional than an ordinary skier can afford to buy. Service irons, as a rule, differ from home irons in a thicker sole. Applying powders or even cold lubricants with a home iron is sometimes very difficult. The thing is that the sole loses temperature and it takes more time to melt the lubricant. As a result, many begin to literally rub the lubricant. The ski overheats and the plastic surface melts much easier than the unheated surface. The valuable factory structure suffers greatly from this. This is especially true for warm skis with large and sharp structures.

Lubricant classification

First of all, you need to divide the lubricants according to the temperature of the snow. Four main ranges. Warm lubricants - plus and zero, zero and a small minus. Frosty - by minus 5-15 and by minus 15-30. The colder the snow, the harder the grease will be and the melting point will be higher. In frost, the snow is rough and warm lubricants quickly work out. Frosty snow gets stuck in soft paraffin, which worsens the glide a lot. Warm (soft) lubricants have better water repellency than solid lubricants.

Further, it is worth dividing any lubricants according to the fluorine content. Fluorine significantly increases the water repellency of any lubricant. Lubricants without fluorine are the most budgetary, but it does not mean that they are bad at all. In conditions of low humidity, they are able to give very good glide. The average content of fluorine already gives some advantages at high humidity. Often they are used as an independent lubricant. But riders have more like ground for more fluoric compounds and accelerators. They are much more expensive than fluorine-free lubricants. High fluoride and ultra are used at very high humidity of snow and air. They are expensive and a beginner skier can even be discouraged by their price.

How much will it cost to maintain skis manually and how much will it cost in the service

Four paraffins for the whole winter or even for two seasons will cost 600 rubles per briquette. An amateur iron will cost 4 thousand, a profile - 5 thousand, a scraper - 200 rubles, a scraper for a groove - 200 rubles, brushes will cost 3 thousand. Total for 15 thousand "pass". If a person prepares his skis for only one pair during the season, then it does not always make sense to purchase this equipment. In the service, skis for a beginner will be prepared in 10 minutes. In total it will cost 300 rubles. At the same time, they will give recommendations, assess the condition of the skis, and tell a lot of interesting things. Lubrication applies approximately 20-25 km of travel

Should I remove the grease or let it sit until the next time?

For athletes, before each training session, before each race, the skis are completely cleaned and new lubricants are applied immediately before going out on the snow. And a beginner should apply lubricant in case of weather changes or if the lubricant has developed. Skating before applying the lubricant, in any case, be cleaned with a wire brush. As for the classics, you will need a wash for the ointment.

For good manufacturers

In service, I mainly use Swix, Start, Vauhti, Maplus, Toko, Ski-go, Holmenkol lubricants. It can be said with dignity - these are the best of the best. These lubricants are used both in world-class racing and in mass sports.