How to Sharpen Your Ski and Snowboard Edges

Keep your edges sharp for better control on the slopes and to preserve the profile of your base.

Things You'll Need

• Fine-tooth File
• Ski And Snowboard Stone
• Ski Sharpening Tools
• File Guides
• Downhill Skis
• Snowboards

Instructions

1. Find out the exact angles that your ski or snowboard manufacturer recommends for the edges. (Check the owner's manual, if it's available.) Most edges do not have a 90-degree angle. They are beveled - angled slightly, about 1 degree outward at the base, and 2 to 4 degrees inward on the side.

2. Place your ski or snowboard on a steady stand or workbench with your bindings facing downward. For optimal working conditions, have your ski or snowboard at waist level.

3. Have a file with fine teeth at the ready.

4. Use a file guide to hold the file at a preset angle.

5. Set the file guide to the appropriate angle for the base.

6. Push or pull (one direction only) the file along the edges until they're sharp.

7. Turn the ski or snowboard on its side.

8. Reset the file guide for the correct bevel angle for the side.

9. Push or pull the file along the edge until it's sharp.

10. Repeat steps 7 through 9 on the other side of the ski or snowboard.

11. Use a polishing stone to remove burrs and pits from the edges.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a smooth stroke, in one direction only, when pushing or pulling the file along an edge.

• A file with fine teeth has less of a tendency to bite into the metal edge.

• Keep the ski or snowboard steady on the stand or bench as you file.

• A polishing stone not only increases edge control, but stops rust from building up on the edges. Burrs and pits accumulate snow, which can create numerous problems along the edge. Be sure to hold the ski or snowboard flat while rubbing it along the edge.