Recycling is the new breed, so if you are in need of new ski equipment, why not buy used skis. New ski equipment can be really expensive, so it can be wise to buy used skis to save money, or to get skis of better quality. When you buy used skis, you must of course look at the overriding factor: the condition of the skis. In this article, you will get good advice on what to look for regarding the condition of the ski.
There are four parts of skis that will be the focus of this article: edge, base, top layer and bindings. These are the key elements of a good ski and what affects both performance and value. The ski binding is included in our discussion because the bindings are usually fitted to and included in a used ski purchase.
Edges
The edge of a ski is the metal strips mounted on the sides of the ski. Check the ski edge for sharpness and rust. Check that the edges are straight and how much edge is left on the skis. The process of tuning skis includes sharpening the edges. If the ski has been tuned a lot, the edges can become too thin and limit the amount of future tuning. Also check if the edges have the same thickness, if they don't, it could mean a previous damage.
The base
The base of the ski is the area at the bottom of the ski that rides on the snow. The base of a ski gets scratches and grooves when the ski comes into contact with rough and hard objects such as rocks and ice. Scratches and chips on the bottom of the ski can be easily removed when they are small and only on the surface. It is best if long scratches are not close to the edge of the ski. Do not buy used skis with deep cuts that go into the core of the ski. Place the two skis, base-to-base, and slide them apart. They should preferably be completely smooth. If you notice a clicking sound when the edges slide over each other, you may need to have the bottom painted for a smooth fit.
The top layer
The top layer (top plate and ski cap) of a ski is where the bindings are mounted and your feet are attached to the ski. Scratches are common in the top layer. They don't mean much, but as mentioned above, in terms of deep cuts, it's also a no-go in the upper layer. Inspect each ski for top layer delamination (separation of the layers). Look carefully around the tail and tip as this is often where the delamination occurs.
Ski bindings
The ski binding is the mechanical device that holds the boot on the ski. Every year the manufacturers of ski bindings come out with a list of safe bindings. Your goal is to buy used skis with bindings that are on the list, as ski shops typically only will service you if your bindings are listed. Check for any loose parts, cracks or loose mounting screws. Check that the spring settings, front and rear, are the same. If the settings are different, it could be a sign that a spring is worn out and releasing too easily.
With these tips you are ready to buy your first used skis!
