The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Snowboarding Gear: Look After It and It’ll Last You a Lifetime.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert snowboarder, having reliable and well-maintained gear is paramount. While hitting the slopes can stand you in good stead and help to improve your technique, having high-quality and suitable snowboarding gear is crucial for maximum performance and, more importantly, safety.
Caring for your snowboarding gear doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. With a few simple steps and the right maintenance schedule, your snowboard, boots, and bindings will look as good as new and provide you with years of reliable, quality performance.
The first step to taking care of your snowboarding gear is to always clean and dry it thoroughly after a day on the mountain; this will not only prevent the build-up of bacteria and dirt, but also help to keep it looking its best for longer. For big chunks of mud or snow, use a brush to remove any excess before trying to wipe away the remaining dirt using a soft cleaning cloth and some warm soapy water. Remember to also clean out your bindings as, like your other gear, they’ll easily accumulate build-up of dirt and grime.
The second step, which many snowboarders often forget, is to wax and tune your gear. Applying a good quality wax regularly will help to protect your gear from the elements, including water, dirt and sun exposure. Start by liberally applying wax to your board and brushes in circular motions, before buffing away any excess. Doing this will also help to enhance your control of the board, allowing you to gain more grip and to become more stable as you carve over the snow.
When it comes to tuning your snowboard, the process is fairly straightforward. Start by replacing and tightening any loose screws and bolts on the board, bindings and boots, before checking and adjusting the angles of your binding plates to suit your riding position, this will ensure you have maximum control when riding. Next, use a stone and a file to burnish your edges and remove the burrs; not only will this help to reduce friction and drag, but it will also help to improve your board’s grip. Lastly, use a vise to check the camber of your board, should the camber need adjusting, you may need to take it to a professional.
The third and final step to keeping your snowboarding gear in great shape is to always store it correctly. When not in use, store your gear in a warm, dry space and away from any damp or wet areas. Where possible, use a board bag to keep it shielded from dust and dirt, as well as to protect it from any knocks and bumps. Also, make sure you always separate your boots from the board; this will not only keep them from getting damaged when the board is being transported, but it will also help keep the gear from getting tangled.
Regularly taking the above steps and maintaining a strict maintenance schedule can help to keep your gear in excellent condition for many years. Don’t forget to give it the respect it deserves and your gear will treat you well in turn. Invest in the best gear you can afford, use it as instructed and look after it, and it’ll be sure to last you a lifetime.
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