ALPINE SKI & SNOWBOARD PREPARATION

STRUCTURE
When the base of a snowboard or ski has a
certain surface structure, or texture pattern,
the gliding performance is improved compared to
a completely smooth base surface.
Prior to setting edge angles on a ski/board
(new or old) it is a good idea to have them ground
so we are starting with a truly flat edge. It is
important to realize that even new skis are not
always flat. Stone-grinding will secure a flat base.
You can at the same time choose a preferred
structure for the conditions the skis are most
likely to be used.
It is impossible to classify the infinitely
variable types of snow and the unlimited number
of possible structure patterns. However the three
most common structure types are:
• Linear structures
• Cross structures
• Broken structures
Structure Patterns
Today almost all base structure patterns are created
by the stone grinding process. Stone grinding
machines have become amazingly sophisticated.
The ability to control grinding parameters, and to
duplicate specific structure patterns has greatly
improved.
LINEAR STRUCTURES
Fine Linear structures work well for colder,
drier snow conditions.
CROSS-STRUCTURES
The most often used structures are diagonal
structures, stone-ground to cross type structures.
They work better for snow with medium to higher
moisture content and coarse snow crystals.
This structure has an optical diagonal banding
appearance that runs at an angle across the base.
Too deep, coarse structures will affected the
turning ability.
BROKEN STRUCTURES
There are also numerous “broken” structure combinations
produced by stone grinders or imprint
tools. These vary in gliding property and turning
ability.
LINEAR STRUCTURE
CROSS STRUCTURE
BROKEN STRUCTURE
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