Base Preparation - how it works

Method 1: Base preparation with TOPBase 20 or 21

Apply with the sponge applicator in only one thin layer on the clean and dry surface. While still wet, brush out with a hard ZIPPS natural hair brush (hand brush twice or rotor brush once) in the direction of travel. Allow to dry.Then finish with a fine brush (ZIPPS nylon fine, hand brush two to three times, rotor brush once or twice). One 50ml bottle is enough primer for 20 to 25 pairs of cross-country skis or 15 to 20 pairs of carvers. Now the wax appropriate to the conditions can be applied in 2 coats (recommended). Racers prepare with the waxes of the ZR series and/or with perfluor sprays or powders.

The skis can be easily cleaned after the application of the polymer ZIPPS TopBase 20 or 21: clean thoroughly with the ZIPPS cleaner C 3 F, then prime freshly again. When using TopBase 21, we recommend the likewise fluorine-free cleaner C 31. Treated in this way, the base is protected from oxidation.

Method 2: The traditional base preparation with a hot wax

This should be a familiar procedure. ZIPPS provides 3 hot wax groups for this:

1. HighFluor waxes, which we recommend to those who want to use a powder or a finish spray after hot waxing. For this we offer HF hot wax in three temperature ranges. Or

2. LowFluor waxes, if you want to apply a ZR or ZR HS product as an intermediate layer after the hot waxing before the finish. LowFluor waxes are also available for three temperature ranges.

3. ZeroFluor waxes, to be used liek the loeFluor waxes, available in 3 temperature ranges.

Method 3: Base Preparation with Liquid Waxes

Our series G training and sport waxes

A time-saving and cost-effective alternative to the base preparation with hot waxes is provided by the four ZIPPS products from the series G training and sport waxes: GT 20, GR 20, GR 30 and GR NewSnow. They differ in hardness and fluor content and are thus adapted to the different snow and weather conditions.

GT 20 is one of our hardest waxes, and because of its low fluor content it is also suitable for cold and dry conditions as well as providing the base for long distances. GR 20 has a slightly higher fluor content and is slightly softer than GT 20. GR 30 and GR NewSnow are based on the same platform but are optimised for their applications through the degree of fluorination and the admixture of additives as well as through the fluor waxes used.

Preparation

The base of the ski has to be fundamentally clean and free of grease. This is the only way to achieve optimal adhesion and wetting of the base. Cleaning the base with a hot wax and thorough brushing provide the best prerequisites. The base of the ski can also be cleaned with two layers of G and subsequent brushing.

Application and drying

Now you can apply the wax from the G series which suits the conditions. It is better to apply two to three thin layers than one thick layer. It is not important which direction the sponge applicator is moved in. When a layer has dried (a white film becomes clearly visible), it needs to be corked with a hand cork, cork roller or fleece roller. The second and possibly a third layer are then applied in the same way. The drying times between the steps are 5 - 10 minutes depending on the room conditions.

Brushing

After the last corking, the skis should be allowed to air for at least 15 minutes before you start with the brushing. For liquid waxes, the natural bristle is suitable for the first step, then the soft finishing brush. For a perfect finish, the finishing brush ultrafine can be used in a third step.

The ski is now ready for a whole day of skiing or 30 - 40 km on cross-country skis! The racer should still apply the appropriate race wax after the base preparation.