How to prepare your equipment for ski season
As the ski season approaches we all start to think "Am I ski ready" worried that our legs wont hold out past the first few hours. But have you spared a moments though for "Is my kit ready"?
It's only November, but snow has been falling steadily in the Alps and this season is already off to a great start. We hope you've been hard at work doing our Ski Fit Series to get in shape. Now it's time to turn your attention to your kit.
Skis and Bindings
Just the basics
Run your finger down the side of your skis to check out your edges, paying close attention to nicks (burrs) and rust!. Remove any burrs with a diamond stone ; do not be tempted to use a metal file as they remove too much of the material and shorten the life of your skis. Next: check out the base of your skis. If you can see dry, white, or furry-looking areas this means they need a few layers of wax.
TOP TIP - It's so tempting to get over excited to just get out there and get on snow but don't let that little niggly thought; ''hmm they look a little dry but they'll be okay''. If they look dry, get them waxed - it will make your first day back on skis so much more fun. Check out this youtube video on home waxing:
An expert approach
Alternatively, if you don't feel up to giving it a go yourself simply take your skis into your local ski shop for a full tune-up. Pricing starts from £20, depending on the level of servicing your skis require. Why not drop them into your local Decathlon store, where a full service, including filling, edge sharpening, and waxing will set you back just £29.99. Of course, you could always leave it until you are in resort and if you are visiting Chamonix take your skis to our trusted ski shop partner Concept Pro.
It goes without saying that you should check your bindings at the start of each ski season. Check them for any dirt or grime left from last season and check how they feel with your boots. If you are in any doubt as to whether they are functioning as they should, take them to an expert to get them checked. A faulty binding can cause serious injury.
Boots
So many people neglect their boot care. Your boots are the most important aspect of your ski equipment and taking good care of them is imperative for a pain-free ski holiday!
Just the basics
You should always remove your boot liners and footbeds before using your boots again after an extended period of no use. This is to make sure no rodents or insects took up residence over the summer and to give them some much-needed air. Once aired out, replace the footbeds and liners and buckle the boots.
TOP TIP - Always remember to buckle your boots after removing them. The plastic has memory so keeping them buckled will mean they remain in shape. Leaving boots unbuckled can lead to miss-shapen fastenings and a very uncomfortable first few days on the slopes.
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An expert approach
Making sure you pack them away properly is the best care you can give to your boots. You may wish to check the soles of your boots. Checking the heel and the toe for any excessive damage is a good idea at the start of each season as excess wear will affect how your boots fit into bindings - and more importantly, how well they'll release if you fall. If they look worn, most boots have heel and toe piece that can be replaced.
TOP TIP - If you are considering new boots this season, get some expert advice. A great fitting boot does not happen off the shelf, it's well worth the money and time visiting a professional boot fitter. Remember to book an appointment and allow a few hours for the consultation and fitting. They will make alterations to the shell that will increase your comfort levels. Always remember new boots do take time to break-in.
Transceiver
Just the basics:
Most importantly - check the battery before you head out. Even if your battery life looks good, we'd recommend making it a habit to fit new batteries at the start of each season.
An expert approach
Get some practice. Once you arrive in the snow, grab a friend's transceiver and bury it! Time yourself and try to find the beacon as quickly as you can. You may also want to consider taking part in an avalanche training course, if this is something you have never done before or if it's been a while since you honed your skills. Check out the Avalanche Academy based in Chamonix for handy YouTube clips, course dates, and free seminars!
So there you have it, our guide to making sure your kit is in tip-top shape ready for ski season. We can't wait to see you out on in the mountains, ready to hit the slopes, feeling fit and fully prepared for a fantastic ski holiday.