You should repair your skis based on the type and depth of the damage to the base.
Understanding the severity of damage is key to knowing when professional repair is necessary versus when a minor scratch can be ignored.
Assessing Ski Base Damage
Not all marks on your ski base require immediate repair. The need for repair depends largely on how deep the damage is and whether it reaches critical parts of the ski.
- Minor Scratches: For a shallow scratch (less than 0.5mm deep), it's generally OK (and definitely easiest) to ignore it. These surface-level marks typically don't significantly impact performance or the integrity of the ski.
- Major Gouges: If the gouge is cavernous and touches the core or the edge, this indicates a more serious issue. Such damage can compromise the ski's structure, affect glide, and potentially lead to further problems like water intrusion.
When to Seek Professional Repair
Based on the severity, specific types of damage warrant a trip to a ski shop:
- Deep Gouges: As the reference states, if the gouge is cavernous and touches the core or the edge, you should bring your skis or snowboard to a ski shop to be repaired. These repairs often involve filling the void with P-tex material and potentially addressing edge damage.
- Edge Damage: Dents, burrs, or cracks in the metal edges require specialized tools and expertise to repair properly.
- Structural Issues: Any signs of delamination (layers separating) or damage near bindings should always be assessed by a professional.
Here's a simple guide:
| Damage Type | Depth/Severity | Action Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Shallow Scratch | Less than 0.5mm deep | Ignore (usually OK) |
| Cavernous Gouge | Touches the core or the edge | Shop Repair (Bring in) |
| Edge Damage | Dented, burred, or cracked edge | Shop Repair |
| Structural Damage | Delamination, near bindings | Shop Repair (Assessment) |
Ignoring significant damage, especially gouges that expose the core or edge, can lead to water saturation, base degradation, and reduced performance and lifespan of your skis. Regular inspection of your ski bases is a good practice to catch damage early.
