Using a Plastic Scraper

Before scraping allow the ski wax to cool to room temperature. Half an hour to an hour is probably enough but the longer the better.

Remember the important wax is already within the base, you are only scraping off the excess.

Hold the scraper firmly in both hands, apply even pressure and push from tip to tail taking off the excess wax. Use long smooth strokes. Keep doing this until you have little or no wax left visible. 

How to Use Structure Pads

Your DataWax Structure Pad Kit contains two pads:- a rough brown pay and a smoother green pad.

Brown Pad

Use the brown structure pad to “open the pores” in your ski before you wax. This allows the wax to penetrate the base.  Use 2-3 passes of the ski base pressing moderately firmly. Wipe off any dust and debris and clean the base before waxing.

Green Pad

Use the green structure pad to lightly roughen the wax after you have scraped (this prevents surface tension allowing the ski to glide more easily). Use 1-2 passes over the length of the base in long smooth strokes – only gentle pressure is required. Wipe off any excess wax before clamping your skis with Ski Ties.

When to use a Metal  File and a Diamond File (DMT)

In simple terms

• Use a metal file to set the edges to the correct geometry and after damage.
• Use a Diamond file first after damage and for fine tuning.

1                 Setting correct edge angles – (both the base edge and the side edge). To do this you need a good base bevel tool an edger tool and a good (preferably new) file. Always start with a metal file in the tool and when happy switch to a diamond file to finish the job.

2                 Starting with sharp edges after a day of skiing or riding:-

1. Check for burrs. De-burring removes any rough bits of the edge that can make the ski or board perform erratically.
2. Use your diamond file to remove them – usually takes only 1-2 passes.
3. Dry your edges before putting your skis or board away or in the car.

3                 Starting with either blunt edges or damaged edges.

1. Use your diamond file to remove the burrs. If you have hit a rock you should place the diamond file in the base bevel or edger tool to ensued you keep the same angles.
2. Keep using the diamond until the sound changes from a rasping noise to a smooth cutting sound. Most top technicians use water on their diamond files to obtain better cutting and washing away of debris.
3. Use your 5 inch mill file in your base bevel and edger tool to sharpen the edges.
4. Use your diamond file to fine tune and remove and filing burrs (coarse DMT  then fine DMT)

How to Use a “Get a Grip”

Having sharp edges makes it easier to grip while skiing. This is especially important in difficult conditions like hard snow or ice but it is always helpful for enjoyable, effective skiing whatever the conditions.

To edge your skis using a “Get a Grip”, you must  first choose whether you want your edges at 88° or 90°.

90° is sharp enough for beginners and intermediates and  most snowboarders but for more advanced skiers go for 88°. Once you decide you should maintain this angle.

Hold the Get-a-Grip with the plastic touching the base and the file against the side edge. For 90⁰ the plastic grip with 90⁰ will be against the base.

Have the file facing so that it cuts as you pull towards you. Don’t push this will lead to juddering and an uneven edge. You don’t need to press too hard. Pull the guide towards you running in long smooth strokes keeping the pressure even and the plastic guide flat against the base.

Repeat until the edge is sharp along the full length of the ski. Then change edges. It is not important whether you sharpen from tip to tail or tail to tip.

How to Use an “Ergo Sharp Edge Sharpener”

Having sharp edges are essential to grip while skiing. This is especially important in difficult conditions like hard snow or ice but it is always helpful for enjoyable, effective skiing whatever the conditions.

To edge your skis you must  first choose whether you want your edge angle. This can be anything from 90⁰ to 85⁰.

90° is sharp enough for beginners and intermediates and most snowboarders but more advanced skiers and racers need a more acute angle. (see Choosing your edge angle) Once you decide you should maintain this angle.

Adjust the Ergo Sharp with a coin or a screwdriver.

Hold the Ergo Sharp with the plastic touching the base and the file against the side edge.

Have the file facing so that it cuts as you pull towards you. Don’t push this will lead to juddering and an uneven edge. You don’t need to press too hard. Pull the guide towards you running in long smooth strokes keeping the pressure even and the plastic guide flat against the base.

Repeat until the edge is sharp along the full length of the ski or board. Then change edges. It is not important whether you sharpen from tip to tail or tail to tip.