Old ski equipment

Question
I have equipment that's over 20yrs old.  I haven't used it in 15yrs.  It's been stored in a carrier since then.  My question is this - can I still use the equipment again and what would i have to do to it to prepare it.  My height is the same with 20 more lbs since then.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

I think you'll be surprised by the changes in ski equipment in the past 20 years, it's really not even the same sport. So, from a practical perspective, even if you can use your gear, you probably do not want to.

First , I'd like for you to check the National Ski Retailers association indemnification list. This is a list of bindings the manufacturers consider "safe". Since your bindings will need to be adjusted for your age and weight, you need to be sure any shop will touch them.

http://www.nssra.com/2001/nssra/index.asp?centre=article&recno=2645

Secondly, your boots are very likely to crack when you use them. Ski boot plastic becomes brittle over time- although some models retain their flexibility and usefulness, most low-to-mid end boots do not.

Your edges will only need attention if they are rusted, or if you know they had not been tuned prior to putting them away. A good tune is in the neighborhood of $30 (actually, most bad tunes are in that neighborhood also...). You'll have them ground, sharpened, and waxed. Waxing them is a good idea anyway- I am not sure what the effects of age are on wax.

You can get a recent pair of skis (3 years old or less) at big box stores like Sports Authority for around $150. Overstock.com has a pair of super womens Fischer Vision 73 skis for $175 with bindings (they are normally $700, it's a great deal!).

Trust me on this one- every chairlift ride,, you'll hear from a fellow rider that you really ought to try the new skis- and that can get pretty annoying. More than the justification of your old gear, and with lift ticket prices well over $50, you'll want to get the most out of your days- newer equipment can really help you do this.

I'm sure this is not the news you wanted, but I sincerely hope you'll either demo skis, rent equipment, or find a great deal on some newer gear.

Ron