One of the most popular ways to enjoy the outdoors during the winter is by skiing. Whether you are a professional skier or a passionate enthusiast, there is a ski that will make it possible for you to hit the slopes once more.
With the right equipment, the experience is almost as good as the first time around. The following will offer insight on how to properly take care of your vintage skis in order to maximize their service life and minimize the chances of having them break down.
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Get Yourself A Helper
It goes without saying that manual labor is one of the primary responsibilities when it comes to maintaining a vintage ski. The more you use it, the more you will appreciate its mechanical properties. So, the next time you are hiking or traveling, take the time to stop by a bike shop and ask if they have any repairs available. Depending on how experienced you are, they may even give you an estimate on how much it will cost to properly fix your bike.
Vintage skiing equipment is often extremely heavy and thick. In some cases, they were made of hand-hewn wood and metal. So, if you are planning on mounting them on your wall, be prepared to do some serious physical labor. If you are not able to do so yourself, then consider getting some help from friends or family members.
Use The Right Equipment
The majority of older vintage skis are made of metal and wood. If you have ever seen the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” then you know exactly what kind of equipment these are. The following will discuss ways in which you can determine whether a particular pair of skis will suit your needs based on their material composition and the purpose for which you will use them.
Wood Vs. Metal
Each of the materials used to make up vintage ski equipment—wood, metal, and concrete—possess unique qualities that you need to consider when deciding which one is right for you. If you are looking for a fast, versatile ski that you can use for all types of snow and terrain, then metal and wood are your best options. However, if you plan on riding mostly at your local ski resort, then wooden ski equipment may be your ideal choice.
Concrete, the material used to make “concrete skiing boots,” was primarily designed for traction. While it can offer some advantages, particularly when it comes to cushioning and shock absorption, it has limited use when compared to wood and metal. These three materials are the foundation of most vintage ski equipment. So, if you are wondering whether or not to buy a concrete ski, then the answer is probably no.
The thickness of the material used to make your vintage ski determines how you will use it. For example, if you want to use your ski for hiking and adventuring, then you will need thinner equipment. Thicker equipment will serve you better when it comes to jumping and sliding on the snow. When in doubt, simply thump the ski (tap it on the floor) to determine its thickness. Also, if you have any previous experience with power tools, then you can estimate the material’s thickness based on how many teeth/rubs/etc. you detect when using the tool. For example, if you are using a handsaw and still have doubts, then measure the thickness of the stock with a tape measure or ruler.
Thickness Is Key
If you are new to the world of vintage skis, then begin by purchasing the thickest and strongest pair available. For best results, use a metal detector to determine whether or not a particular ski is completely solid. The more you use your ski, the more you will appreciate its unique properties. So, take your time in choosing the right pair of equipment and you will be able to enjoy the experience for many years to come.