Even if you’re planning on renting skis on your next winter getaway—as most folks do—you’ll want to read what follows. Why? Because those skis from the rental shop on your next Park City, Big Sky, Whitefish, Mammoth Lakes, or Lake Tahoe vacation may very well need a tune-up.
To put it politely, ski rentals tend to see a lot of use and neglect. This is to say that the skis you’ll be given will likely need their edges sharpened—at the very least. You’ll want to make a quick inspection before leaving the shop and, if needed, ask to have them tuned. Doing so will dramatically enhance your time on the snow.
How will poorly tuned skis behave on the slopes? They’ll “chatter” and want to slide sideways when turning on packed powder. The act of turning itself will require far more effort. Having the edges sharpened will go a long way toward solving this problem, as it will allow you to properly “carve” each turn.
What should you look for when inspecting your skis? If you see and feel that the edges are burred and dull to the touch, then they need to be sharpened. Point this out to the ski tech while you’re at the counter and ask for another pair. If the shop’s entire inventory is looking a little worse for the wear and tear—which is often the case toward the end of the ski season—request that the skis you’ve been given are shown some love. You’ll be doing yourself a favor.
The same, of course, goes for your own skis. If it’s been a season or two since the last tune-up, it may be time.
