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The best moments are born on the mountain. So we made the gear to get you there.The best moments are born on the mountain. So we made the gear to get you there
Get Your Gear Mountain Ready

Get Your Gear Mountain Ready

Posted by Peter Glenn Staff on Oct 30th 2024

Getting your skis or snowboard checked and tuned by professionals ensures your gear is ready to go will keep you safe and ready to enjoy every moment on the mountain. Here's why you should make tuning your equipment a priority before your next trip to the mountain: 

Optimal Performance on the Slopes 

Freshly tuned gear glides smoothly and responds to your moves. When your skis or snowboard are waxed right, you'll zip along effortlessly, and sharpened edges give you the grip you need for those sharp turns, even when the slopes are crusty and icy.

Improved Safety  

Bindings that aren't calibrated or edges that won't grip can increase the risk of accidents. Your bindings will be inspected and adjusted to match your weight and skill level to stay secure and release when needed.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Gear  

Regular maintenance prevents long-term damage. Base repairs fill gouges to avoid deterioration while waxing protects the base from drying out. Sharp edges also last longer and are easier to maintain when regularly tuned.

Maximize Your Trip Time

Nobody wants to deal with slow skis or equipment problems. A pre-season tune-up means you spend more time on the mountain. 

Getting Your Equipment Tuned at a Peter Glenn Ski Shop 

When it comes to ski or snowboard tuning, taking your gear to our professional ski shop will ensure your gear is in peak condition and ready for the season. Our trained technicians use specialized tools and techniques to get your skis or board riding smooth, fast, and safe. Here's a breakdown of what happens during a professional tune-up. 

1. Base Inspection and Repair 

Our shop technicians start with a detailed inspection of your skis or snowboard base, looking for scratches, gouges, or dry patches. If the base is damaged, your technician will: 

  •  P-Tex repair: To create a smooth surface, deep gouges are filled with molten P-Tex (a durable repair material).
  •  Base grinding: For larger imperfections, the base is put through a grinding machine to restore it to a perfectly flat surface. 

This process ensures even contact with the snow for better glide and control.

2. Edge Sharpening

Sharp, clean edges are essential for grip in icy conditions and precise turns. Our shops use automated edge-tuning machines to:

  • Sharpen the edges to a specific angle (typically between 88-90 degrees).
  • Remove rust, burrs, and imperfections.
  • Stone grind a diagonal pattern to help dispense water for a smoother ride.
  • Polish the edges with diamond stones for smoother, drag-free carving.

The result is a perfect edge that bites into the snow but won't feel overly aggressive.

3. Hot Waxing 

Waxing your skis or snowboard helps them glide effortlessly by reducing friction. Our technicians will use hot wax, applying it with professional tools:

  • Wax is applied with a heated iron to ensure absorption into the base.
  • The wax is allowed to cool and then scraped off evenly to remove excess.
  • A finishing brush buffs the base, maximizing speed and glide.

Depending on your needs, the technician can apply temperature-specific wax or all-purpose wax for changing conditions.

4. Binding Inspection and Adjustment 

Bindings are the critical link between you and your gear, so your technician will thoroughly check the following:

  • Screws and straps for wear or damage.
  • DIN settings (for skis) to ensure they match your weight, height, and ability level.
  • Step-On or snowboard bindings for proper boot fit and locking mechanisms.

If you've changed boots or gained weight since last season, re-calibration ensures the bindings perform safely and effectively. Bring your boots so the technician can make sure they fit your bindings!

5. Final Quality Check and Adjustment

After tuning, technicians do a final check to ensure everything is perfect. This includes:

  • Testing binding release mechanisms.
  • Checking that boots fit snugly in the bindings.
  • Verifying that edges are sharp and consistent along the entire length.

Time for your Boots! 

Even the best-tuned skis or boards won’t feel right without well-fitted boots well-fitted boots. Our Peter Glenn Fit Specialists can adjust your boots so they feel great from the first run to the last. They will ensure your boots fit properly, reducing pain and boosting performance so you can ski or ride confidently and, most importantly, comfortably. Our boot specialists will:

Custom Fitting: 

They will look at  your foot shape, size, and pressure points to recommend the right boots or make adjustments to your current boots.

Heat Molding:

They will use heat to mold boot liners and insoles to match the contours of your feet for a snug, personalized fit.

Shell Modifications: 

They can make precise adjustments to the plastic shell by grinding or stretching it to eliminate discomfort or hot spots. 

Alignment Check: 

They will assess your stance and foot alignment to optimize balance and control on the slopes. 

Insoles and Orthotics: 

Peter Glenn has custom insoles to improve arch support and reduce fatigue during long days on the mountain. 

By getting your equipment professionally tuned before your trip, you can spend fun, safe, and stress-free days on the mountain. Start the season right by visiting a Peter Glenn Ski Shop, so you and your gear are ready to ride!

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