Skiing is one of the best ways to make the most out of snowy winters, especially if you live in mountainous areas. But, there will come a time when you’ll need to replace them. But, when?
Don’t you worry my friend! After months of investigation, I’ve compiled this ultimate guide that’ll answer your question.
So, let’s get to the point first; how often should you replace skis?
I gave a rough idea regarding the lifespan of this particular equipment. Keep on reading till the end as there’s more you’ll need to know to get a definitive answer.
How Often Should You Replace Skis?|Answered
Skiing and adrenaline go hand to hand, it’s also a great source of recreation during the winter. And, a pair of skis is vital to this extreme sport.
Just like any other sports equipment, there will come a time when you’ll need to replace them. But, when? That’s the million-dollar question.
You are a regular, the kind who skies 20 full days in a season; in that case, you’ll need to replace your skis after 5 years. But, that number may stretch to 8 years if you take good care of them.
Consequently, that number will decrease if you ski more than 20 full days a season or you’re irregular in your maintenance.
The lifespan of skis depends on various factors such as the type of skis you use or the type of surface you ski in, not taking good care of them, etc.
Another crucial factor is the type of skier you are! Let’s say, you ski open-to-close regularly at the resort then you might need to replace them every 2 years. If you’re a cruiser then you might need to replace the skis after more than 5 years.
And, if you’re a freestyler then you might need to replace your skis after 2 years or less. As I said, the lifespan of skis depends on multiple factors.
But, it has been seen that a pair of skis need to be replaced after 100-125 days of full use. For some, it may just be a season or two, while for others it’s a lifetime.
I almost forgot, that technological advancement also plays a big role. Skis with new technologies are being produced every year or two.
If performance is your main goal, then replace your older ones with new ones. Because new ones will give you a better outcome without a shadow of a doubt.
You may like to read: How Often Should You Replace Snowboard Boots.
Why And How Do Skis Wear-Out?
It’s a universal fact that anything will start to wear out after a certain amount of usage. And, your skis are no exception.
The wear-out process always has some reasons, some might be well expected while others may come as a surprise. But, the surprise packages are rarely seen.
I’ve listed some important reasons that cause your precious skis to wear out.
Here are the main reasons your skis wear out:
Frequent Usage
This should come as no surprise! The more you use anything the quicker it will deteriorate. Your skis are no exception.
And, if you use your skis aggressively too without proper maintenance then only God can save your precious skis. So yeah, the more you use your skis the quicker they’ll deteriorate.
Read more on How Often Should You Replace Winter Boots.
Skiing Surface
Of course the surface you ski on plays a role in their demise. And, you should be well aware of it.
If you ski on a hard snowy surface full of rocks then your precious equipment will take more damage than you think.
On the other hand, if you ski on well-maintained surfaces then the wear-out process will be much slower, enabling your skis to last longer.
Core
The core also plays a big role in a pair of skis’ lifespan. The creation of ski boards started with wooden cores, and they’re still popular today. Wooden cores tend to be a bit heavy but they’re very durable.
Thanks to technological advancements wooden cores aren’t the only ones used today. You also get composite cores. They make the skis lighter and have a very good stiffness-to-weight ratio.
However, that comes at a price. And, the price you have to pay is durability. Composite cores tend to be less durable than wooden cores.
Under Usage
This may come as a surprise to many, including you. But, let me explain. By under usage, I meant irregular usage. You may use them for 3-5 days a season and keep them locked away for the next year or two.
If you tend to use your skis like this then the epoxy will dry out faster. And, a lack of use means a lack of maintenance. Think of your skis as your car. I hope you got what I’m trying to say.
Irregular Maintainance
If you take your skis as a machine, then you know how the machine works. The better you oil them the better they run. And, if you fail to do it regularly then you know the consequences.
I really hope you got what I’m trying to say. If you want your skis to last longer be regular in your maintenance.
Follow our guide on How Often To Replace Danskos.
How Long Do Alpine Skis Last?
Alpine skiing is one of the most popular genres of skiing, it’s also known as downhill skiing. Skiers start from the top of a hill and ski downwards. The speed at which a skier descends is quite fast and the beating the skis take is quite rough.
On average, a pair of Alpine skis will last about 8 years. But, the peak performance of those skis will start to deteriorate roughly after 5 years, which is about 100 days. But, regular maintenance can easily increase that number.
Irregular usage and a more aggressive style of skiing will easily decrease that number. So, if you want peak performance for at least 5 years then do your skis a favor and take good care of them.
Another way to make them last longer is by using them less often. But, you’ve just read irregular use can lead to the wearing out process faster.
However, if you take good care of them between the intervals I don’t see a reason why they shouldn’t last long.
Go through our epic guide: When To Replace Hiking Boots.
Why Should You Wax Your Skis?
Waxing your skis is like oiling a machine. The regular you are, the better they perform. But, overdoing it won’t help you. Do keep that in mind.
Waxing your skis will have a significant impact on your performance and the lifespan of your skis. Both will increase.
Now, the question arises how often should you wax your skis? Well, you should wax your skis every time you go out, or after two days of regular use. Waxing also keeps the base in good condition as there will be less friction with the surface.
The more friction, the more the damage. It’s basic physics actually.
Another question that arises is, what are the signs your skis need waxing. The answers are fairly simple, to be honest.
Wax your skis if you can’t remember the last time you did it, the skis aren’t slippery enough on the trails, the color of the base has lost its gloss, you’re lagging behind your friends, etc.
These were some of the most important signs that your skis need waxing.
Check out our separate post on how to Prevent Shoe Polish From Drying Out.
When Should You Replace Your Ski Bindings?
Let’s be honest here, your skis are basically useless without their bindings. And, you need to keep a close eye on your bindings if you want your skiing experience to be safe.
Bindings are designed to release your boots when the pressure exceeds a set amount. To keep yourself safe, you should get your bindings checked every season to see if they’re functioning properly or not.
If they’re in good shape, then it’s all good. If not, then you should replace them as soon as possible.
You really shouldn’t compromise on your safety, especially when it comes to extreme sports such as skiing.
Remember, you should get your bindings tested by a certified technician. Manufacturers will compensate for damaged bindings, but you’ll need to get them tested by a certified technician.
A pair of ski bindings are compensated for 10 years. So, if your bindings are damaged within 10 years of purchase, you’ll be compensated.
Parting Thoughts
Skiing is a great way to have fun in the winter. And, is one of the most popular extreme sports in the world. A pair of skis is pivotal, I think we all know it.
Like anything else, your skis will go through wear and tear and eventually need to be replaced. And, I’ve told you exactly when to replace your skis. I really hope, you have a satisfactory answer.
If not, do let me know about my lackings down in the comment section below. Stay warm, ski safe, and take care. It’s a wrap for today.
