In this blog we will look at how to select the correct wax for the snow conditions, snow temperature and type of skiing being undertaken. Wax selection can make all the difference and not just for a racer. Having the right wax means your skis will slide over the snow with more ease, allowing your skis to turn with less effort.
General Skiing or Boarding
For general skiing or snowboarding on snow, the most popular waxes contain a low concentration of fluorocarbon which makes the wax smooth fast and easy to apply. If you are new to waxing or you are not sure of the snow conditions, then choose a Universal wax. If you are clear about the conditions you can use temperature specific waxes like those from DataWax which include Butane HP, Magma HP or Sunfire HP.
Racing and Freestyle
If you are racing and need to squeeze the very best speed from your skis or the most height from your jumps use a high concentrate fluorocarbon wax as these are VERY fast. They can also be temperature specific and location specific – for artificial surfaces, high Fluoro waxes are best with added graphite.
Touring and Cross Country
Fluorocarbon at high concentration is known to interfere with the glue on skins so it is best to avoid “fluoro” containing waxes. The DataWax HC (Hydrocarbon range) contains no fluoro and is therefore perfect for this use. They are still fast waxes and are also economical for general use.
Late Season Man made and Indoor Snow
Snow that has been recycled tends to contain particles of dust and other contaminants. These particles create static electricity which makes sliding more difficult. Graphite in wax dissipates the static and makes your skis and board run smoothly and quickly.
Artificial Slopes
Artificial slopes are very abrasive and friction heats the base causing it to be sticky and “burn” or dry out the base. Waxing serves two purposes: firstly, to help protect the base from melting and secondly, to make the ski or board go faster. At present there is only one company that manufactures wax specifically for dry-slopes with special additives to prevent friction – DataWax. They have two iron on waxes Polar X and Polar GX, the latter is a high Fluoro graphite wax for competing.
Do you have a favourite ski wax or any ski servicing tips and tricks? Tell us all about it below in the comments, and look out for more ski servicing blogs in the coming weeks.
Write a comment