Introduction
Snowboarding is an exciting activity that is enjoyed by many people worldwide. But like any other gear, snowboards also require maintenance and care to ensure their longevity. Snowboards that are not well maintained will have a shorter lifespan and will not perform optimally during riding. Unfortunately, purchasing a new snowboard every season can be costly, and this is why it’s essential to learn how you can revive the life of your snowboard without breaking the bank.
In this article, we will discuss the tips and tricks that you can use to revive your snowboard’s life and keep it in good condition so that it can serve you for years to come.
Clean Your Snowboard Regularly
Cleaning your snowboard is essential for its longevity. After a day on the mountain, your snowboard will accumulate dirt, grime, and snow. Leaving these elements on your gear can deteriorate the quality of the base and edges over time. To clean your snowboard, you only need a few things:
– A soft-bristled snowboard brush
– A snowboard-specific cleaner
– A clean towel
Start by brushing your snowboard with a snowboard brush to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, apply a snowboard-specific cleaner on the base and edges of your snowboard. Use the clean towel to wipe off the cleaner, and your snowboard is ready to go.
Store Your Snowboard Properly
Storing your snowboard properly is another way to revive its life. When you store your snowboard, make sure it’s in a cool, dry, and shady area. Avoid exposing your snowboard to direct sunlight as this can damage the base and top sheet. It’s also essential to properly store your snowboard bindings. You can either remove the bindings or loosen the screws and leave them on the board.
Furthermore, it’s recommendable to store your snowboard on a snowboard rack, particularly when you are not using it. A rack will prevent your snowboard from collecting dust and debris, and it will also help maintain its shape.
Edge Maintenance
Maintaining the edges of your snowboard is crucial for a smooth ride. Over time, edges can become dull, and this can impact your board’s responsiveness and control. Snowboards with sharp edges are better suited for riding on hard pack and icy conditions.
Sharpening your snowboard edges can be done at home or at a shop. However, if you intend on doing it yourself, you will require some tools:
– An edge sharpening tool
– A file or diamond stone
– Goggles
– Gloves
Start by securing the snowboard to a workbench or table to allow easy and comfortable access to the underside of the snowboard. Once secured, use an edge sharpening tool to carefully brush along the edges, removing the burrs and sharpening the surface.
If you don’t feel comfortable sharpening the edges yourself, you can take your snowboard to a shop where a qualified technician can do it for you.
Wax Your Snowboard
Snowboard waxing is an essential maintenance task that ensures a smooth and effortless ride. Waxing your snowboard provides two main benefits:
– Protection against the elements – the wax acts like a protective barrier against harmful elements such as dirt, water, and ice.
– Improved performance – waxing your snowboard improves your board’s speed, control, and glide.
Waxing your snowboard is relatively simple, and you will require a few tools and materials:
– Waxing iron
– Snowboard specific wax
– Plastic scraper
– Razor blade
Start by cleaning the base of your snowboard using a snowboard cleaner. Once clean, apply the wax to the hot waxing iron and place it on the base of the snowboard. Work the iron along the length of the board, distributing the wax evenly.
After the wax has been applied, leave your snowboard to cool for a few hours or even overnight. Once cooled, use a plastic scraper to remove the excess wax from the base. Finish by brushing the board to ensure a smooth finish.
Replace Damaged Parts
If your snowboard has been used for a while, it’s inevitable that some of its parts will wear out. Replacing the worn-out parts is essential for the longevity of your snowboard. Common parts that need replacing include:
– Binding Straps – Over time, bindings straps can become worn out, torn, or broken. Replacing the bindings straps will improve your safety while snowboarding.
– Binding Buckles – Buckles are another essential part of bindings that need replacing. Warm, dry conditions can cause the buckles to become brittle and fragile.
– P-tex – P-tex is a nylon material that is used to fill the gouges and dents on the base of your snowboard. It’s essential to repair these damages as they can lead to water damage and rust accumulation.
Conclusion
Reviving the life of your snowboard doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. The tips and tricks outlined in this article are simple yet effective ways to ensure your snowboard’s longevity. By cleaning your snowboard regularly, storing it properly, maintaining the edges, waxing, and replacing damaged parts, you can keep your snowboard in good condition and extend its lifespan for years to come.
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