How to Sharpen Telemark Skis

Telemark skis function best if they are properly maintained and prepared before each ski season. Ensure that your skis are well tuned for the appropriate snow conditions because a badly tuned pair can affect your skiing experience and performance. You can have your telemark skis sharpened professionally at a ski shop or you can learn to sharpen them yourself. With just a few tools, some careful handling and patience, you'll be able to sharpen your telemark skis like a pro.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 Mill bastard file, 10 or 12 inches
  • 2 Cloth towels
  • Spring clamp
  • Steel wool or steel wire brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a towel around your telemark ski and secure with the spring clamp. Covering the ski with the cloth protects its surface.

    • 2

      Wipe down the edge of your ski with the other towel to clean off any dirt and avoid damage before sharpening.

    • 3

      Grab the file and hold it against the edge of your ski at a 45-degree angle. Start filing by applying long, even strokes. Use moderate pressure and stroke towards the file's tip away from the tail.

    • 4

      Move the file toward its tail so that there is less overhang when sharpening near the telemark ski's binding. When filing on the tip and the tail of your ski, move the file for more overhang to prevent excess use of the file's tip.

    • 5

      Rub your ski with the steel wool or steel wire brush to clean the surface after filing. Rub all across the ski's sharpened edge and then wipe with the towel to remove any residue. Move the clamp out of the way as you wipe.

    • 6

      Repeat the steps with the other ski.