Race Ski Sidewall Cutting

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Tuning Tips Guide

Safety	Quick Tuning Guide	New Skis/Boards	Edge Tuning
Questions & Answers	Wax Application	Structure Theory	Sidewall Cutting
Equipment List	Fluoro Powder Application	Ptex Base Repair	Diamond/Ceramic Stones

Ski Sidewall Cutting

In order to achieve an acute side edge angle it may be necessary to cut away the sidewall with a sidewall cutter. Take the time to shave the sidewall down in thin layers, avoiding to dig into the sidewall and cut away chunks as this will produce a rough surface that will add drag. Any form of drag translates into unnecessary friction. Sidewalls spend a lot of time in the snow, so they must be smooth and polished; smooth with 220-grit Silicon-Carbide (SiC) sandpaper and polish with 400-grit SiC. Fluoro paste wax works well to keep snow off of sidewalls and reduce drag.

Sidewall cutting on skis

Important Considerations

Note that the sidewall is not cut down to the metal edge. Sidewall material is needed to support the edge.
Find out whether you have a laminate or cap construction (see pictures). We have two sidewall tools one with the rounded blade (Ski Man Ergo) and the other with the square blade (SKS). Keep in mind that the edge needs support material for strength and the rounded sidewall produces a thin support structure; ask advice before attempting.