Properly processing pastes
Applying Ski Wax Pastes Correctly for Maximum Speed and Durability
Modern ski wax pastes are among the simplest yet most effective ways to improve the gliding properties of skis and snowboards. They are suitable for both training and racing and allow for quick wax application without a waxing iron.
For a paste to unleash its full potential, correct application is crucial. Many users apply the paste correctly but sacrifice durability and performance due to insufficient preparation or too short drying times.
In this guide, we show step-by-step how to optimally apply Dominator pastes.
Why Ski Wax Pastes?
Paste waxes offer numerous advantages:
- quick application
- no waxing iron required
- ideal for training and racing
- easy re-preparation before the start
- very good gliding properties
- Perfect for skis that don't tolerate heat well (e.g., slalom skis)
- Significantly better durability and abrasion resistance compared to liquid waxes
When applied correctly, modern pastes can achieve impressive performance and are a popular addition to classic hot waxes, especially in racing.
Step 1: Thoroughly prepare the base
Before applying the paste, the base must be clean.
Even if the ski has already been waxed, there are often still:
- dirt particles
- dust
- old wax residue
- abrasion
in the structure.
These residues prevent the paste from bonding evenly with the base.
Brush out coating with brass or steel brush
Before applying the paste, the base should be thoroughly brushed with a brass or steel brush.
This will:
- remove dirt
- open up the structure
- eliminate loose wax residues
- create optimal conditions for the paste
It is important to always work in the direction of travel, from the tip to the tail of the ski.
Step 2: Apply paste evenly
After preparation, the paste is applied to the covering.
The following applies:
Less is more.
A thin and even layer delivers the best results.
Application with the Applicator Pad
Most Dominator pastes come with a suitable applicator pad.
This pad allows for easy and controlled distribution of the paste.
Make sure to apply the paste evenly over the entire running surface.
Alternative: Fine varnish brush
Alternatively, the paste can also be applied with a fine varnish brush.
This method is particularly suitable for:
- very even layers
- racing skis
- precise dosing
The varnish brush allows for an extremely thin distribution of the paste and reduces material consumption.
Video: How to apply the paste correctly
In this video, we show you step-by-step how to apply the paste evenly to the topping.
Step 3: Clean edges immediately
This step is often underestimated.
After applying the paste, the steel edges should be immediately cleaned with a clean cloth.
Why do the edges need to be cleaned?
If paste remains on the steel edges, it will begin to harden during the drying phase.
This can cause the paste to:
- stick to the edge
- be difficult to remove
- make subsequent edge work more difficult
- or the wax will have to wear off during skiing
The longer the paste remains on the edge, the more elaborate the cleaning becomes.
Therefore, it is recommended to wipe the edges with a cloth immediately after application.
Step 4: Allow paste to dry sufficiently
After application, the paste needs sufficient time to dry.
This step has a significant impact on durability.
How long should the paste dry?
As a minimum, we recommend:
1 hour
The paste can be processed further after just one hour.
However, for maximum durability, we recommend significantly longer drying times.
Allow to dry overnight
We achieve the best results if the paste can dry overnight.
Due to the longer drying time:
- the paste hardens more
- it bonds better with the surface
- abrasion resistance increases
- durability improves
Especially for races or longer training sessions, this additional time is worthwhile.
Step 5: Corking the paste
After complete drying, the paste is incorporated into the coating.
This step is crucial for later performance.
Corking with a Hand Corker
We achieve the best results with a classic hand corker.
The friction heat generated works the paste into the uppermost layers of the base.
Advantages:
- controlled application
- even result
- optimal absorption
Rotor Cork
Alternatively, the paste can be worked in with a rotor cork.
Important: Always make sure that the pad does not get too hot.
Rotor fleece
Rotor fleece is also suitable for incorporating pastes.
Always check for contamination in the fleece.
Video: Correctly Inserting Paste
In this video, we show the optimal application of paste using a hand corker and rotor tools.
Common Errors in Paste Processing
Applying too much paste
A thick layer does not improve performance.
The paste should always be applied thinly and evenly.
Not cleaning the edges
Dried paste on the steel edges is difficult to remove.
Drying time too short
The longer the paste can dry, the more durable the result will be.
Not corking in
Without corking in, some of the potential performance remains unused.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Processing the Pastes
Yes. Corking optimally binds the paste to the topping and significantly improves shelf life.
At least one hour. For maximum durability, we recommend drying overnight.
Yes. A fine varnish brush allows for particularly even and thin distribution.
Dried paste on the edges is difficult to remove later and can complicate edgebanding.
Both work. We recommend the corkscrew, as we've had better experiences with it.
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