Service
cross-country skiing equipment - the right choice in the Sportano shopCross-country skiing is a sport that is becoming increasingly popular, both as a form of recreation and as a competitive sport. However, in order to enjoy it to the full, proper preparation and servicing of equipment is essential. Properly serviced skis not only increase the comfort and safety of skiing, but also prolong the life of the equipment.
In the assortment of the Sportano sports shop you will find high-quality products for servicing your cross-country skiing equipment from renowned brands such as TOKO, HOLMENKOL and Swix.Lubricants
for skiing: why are they important.Lubricants for cross-country skiing play a key role in ensuring optimum conditions for the sport. The right choice and application of lubricant has the effect of minimising friction between the bottom of the ski and the snow, which in turn translates into better performance and higher speed. Below you will find more details that highlight why lubricants are so important.
Importance in different weather conditions: lubricants are particularly important in changing weather conditions. Each type of grease is formulated for optimum performance in specific temperatures and snow types. For example, greases for warm weather differ in composition from those used in extremely cold weather. Choosing the wrong grease can result in increased friction and loss of speed.
Types of grease: there are different types of grease, including fluorine, hydrocarbon and synthetic greases. Fluorine greases are often used in competitions as they offer very low friction, but are also relatively expensive. Hydrocarbon greases are more versatile and cheaper, but may not offer as good performance as fluorine greases. Synthetic greases are a newer category, designed to minimise environmental impact.
How to apply grease correctly: grease application is as important as grease selection. Too much grease can lead to excessive accumulation on the surface of the ski, which will paradoxically increase friction. Conversely, too little grease will not provide the expected protection and performance. Proper application technique, often using specialised tools such as spreader plugs, is therefore crucial.
Factors influencing the choice of lubricant: the choice of lubricant does not only depend on the weather conditions and the type of skis. Other factors such as personal preferences, style of skiing and length and intensity of training also matter. Some skiers have their favourite brands and types of grease that perfectly suit their individual needs.
Regularity of application: regular lubrication is essential to keep skis in optimum condition. Even the best lubricant loses its properties after a while, so it is important to monitor its condition and apply a new layer as needed.
Choosing
The right ski vicesChoosing the right ski vices is an often underestimated but crucial aspect of ski servicing. Vices are devices that stabilise skis during the various stages of servicing, such as waxing, waxing and scrubbing. Their main task is to hold the skis in the correct position so that the necessary work can be carried out accurately and efficiently.
Ski vices vary in both functionality and price. The simplest models are simple clamps or clamps that hold the skis to the workbench. These are relatively cheap and can easily be found in most sports shops. On the other hand, more advanced clamping systems offer a wide range of settings and positions that can be particularly beneficial to professional service technicians and advanced skiers. Such vices are usually equipped with different types of security and adjustment mechanisms, which makes the job considerably easier.
The final choice of ski vices depends on several factors. Firstly, on the type of skis we intend to service. Cross-country skis will have different requirements than downhill skis, which will influence the type of vise that is most suitable. Secondly, the individual needs and skills of the person doing the servicing are important. People who service their skis occasionally may be happy with simpler and cheaper models, while regular and intensive use may require investment in more advanced vices. Thirdly, budget is also important. Professional vices are much more expensive, but their purchase is justified if you want very high precision and efficiency.
Aspects such as comfort and ergonomics cannot be forgotten either. Good vices should be easy to use and allow fast and simple clamping and releasing of skis. In addition, it is worth paying attention to the materials from which the vices are made, as these affect their durability and the safety of the skis. Metals such as aluminium are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while steel offers higher strength but is heavier and can corrode.Waxes
Ski waxes: types and applicationsSki waxes are another key component in the servicing of ski equipment. Although they may appear similar to lubricants, waxes have their own specific uses and differ in their chemical composition. Their main purpose is to increase the slipperiness of the underside of the ski, which affects speed and handling on the piste. In addition, waxes protect skis from negative environmental influences such as moisture and corrosion.
There are different types of waxes on the market, primarily differing in terms of operating temperature. Some waxes are formulated for use in warm conditions and on wet snow, others are designed for very cold temperatures and dry, powdery snow. There are also multi-purpose waxes that can be used in a wide range of conditions, but their effectiveness may be slightly lower than that of specialised waxes.
It is not only the temperature, but also the type of skis and the style of skiing that affect the choice of wax. Waxes for cross-country skis tend to have a different composition than waxes for downhill skis, which will affect the differences in ski behaviour on the piste. Those who prefer an aggressive, dynamic skiing style may need a wax with a different chemical composition than those who ski more calmly and statically.
Applying wax also requires a certain amount of skill and technique. A wax iron is usually used to spread the wax on the underside of the ski. The process involves heating the wax evenly and applying it to the underside of the ski. Once cooled, excess wax is usually removed using special scrapers and the surface is further polished. It is important not to overheat the skis during waxing, as this can adversely affect their properties and durability.
Ski waxes can also contain various chemical additives to enhance their performance. The most well-known category is fluoride waxes, which have a very low coefficient of friction, but are also relatively expensive and can be harmful to the environment. Recently, eco-waxes, which are biodegradable and do not contain harmful substances, have gained popularity.Cyclones
for skis: how and when to useCyclining is one of the more advanced stages of ski servicing, involving sanding down the underside of the ski to remove any bumps, scratches or deposits. This process significantly affects the ski's performance on the snow, its glide and its overall efficiency. Special tools called cyclers are used for sanding and are available in a variety of options, both manual and machine.
Hand cyclers are smaller and more portable, making them ideal for skiers who want to do basic maintenance at home or even in the field. They are also much cheaper than their machine counterparts. Machine cyclers are professional machines that offer a much higher level of precision and efficiency, but they are also much more expensive and typically used in specialist ski services.
Cyclining is a process that is best carried out seasonally or after an intense period of skiing. Of course, if you notice significant damage or unevenness on the underside of your skis, sanding may also be necessary during the season. It is also worth paying attention to the angle of sanding, which should be tailored to your specific ski type and style of skiing.
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