Your climbing skins represent a major investment in your alpine touring equipment. To maintain their effectiveness and grip, proper management of the glue and fibers is essential. Here are the steps to follow for each situation.
During the outing: Warmth and protection
The performance of the glue depends on temperature and cleanliness.
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Thermal storage: Between climbs, slip your skins inside your jacket (against your base layer). Your body heat keeps the adhesive flexible, making reapplication much easier in cold weather.
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The folding method: Fold your skins back on themselves, glue to glue, or use the protective netting provided with your purchase. This prevents the sticky surface from coming into contact with snow, pine needles, or dust.
After use: Air dry
Residual moisture can damage the adhesive and create mold on mohair or nylon fibers.
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Room temperature: Hang your hides in a dry room as soon as you get home.
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Avoid heat sources: Keep them away from radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight. Excessive heat hardens the glue and renders it unusable. Once dry, store them in their carrying bag.
Summer storage: Extended rest
Summer storage is the most critical stage. Glue that remains stuck to itself for six months under high temperatures risks melting.
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Mandatory use of heat sheets: Place the protective heat sheet between the two glued surfaces. This allows for easy separation of the skins the following winter.
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Cool, dry place: Store your hides in a temperate location. A dry basement is preferable to a garage or attic, where summer heat could degrade the chemical properties of the glue.
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Airtight bag: For maximum protection against oxidation, some experts recommend placing the hides in an airtight bag once they are completely dry.
Need an expert opinion?
If your skins are starting to lose their grip or if the glue seems to be transferring to your skis, come see us in store. Our technicians can assess whether it's time to re-glue them or replace your equipment.
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