You're currently on:
2010 SkiHide installation guideThank you for purchasing SkiHide, we strive to make SkiHide the best product of its kind anywhere. SkiHide is designed to last longer and stronger because we care about our customers. SkiHide is the only product of this kind that uses the process outlined below. If you run across a copycat product using our installation process we would love to hear about it………..
1. For the best results when installing your new SkiHide, Check to see you can remove bindings, tip protectors and any other add-ons including stomp pads and stickers. This will do allot to streamline the installation!
2. If you’re installing SkiHide on skis you must first prep the vinyl by cutting it length wises in half. For Snowboards leave the SkiHide whole. In some cases where you can not or don’t want to remove your bindings, you will need to quarter your SkiHide. In this case your skis will be divided up into 4 sections. Each of the SkiHide quarters will have a specific place to go… Don’t mix them up
3. Before applying your SkiHide be sure to smooth any rough edges on your equipment with 220 grit sandpaper. Once smooth completely clean the top skin of your equipment with isopropyl alcohol. Wait 10 minutes to dry.
4. Using the Hideglue pen that came with your SkiHide order, apply a thin layer along the top surface and along the side wall (if you’re applying a SkiHide to a cap ski) Starting from the edge of the equipment, paint a 1” wide stripe along top edge. In areas where the vinyl may need extra sticking power i.e. on the top surface where there are sharp corners and or creases, apply Hideglue there also. Once the Hideglue is in place, you have 45 min. of working time.
5. Center your SkiHide on your equipment for the desired look. Be sure to center your design before pulling off the protective backing from the SkiHide.
6. Center the SkiHide on the tip and then the tail; be sure to tape the tail in place to keep from moving. Starting at the tip, peal back a small portion of the backing water then lay your SkiHide on the top of your equipment, Making sure the design on your SkiHide is straight and not cockeyed!
7. Peal back only a few inches of the paper backing at a time, using a smooth cloth to firmly smooth out any bubbles as you work the vinyl down onto your equipment. Smooth firm pressure using a soft cloth is key.
8. Once your SkiHide is in place and you’re satisfied it’s where you want it, it’s time to trim the excess vinyl from your equipment. Using a utility knife or similar sharp blade, start at the tip, holding the blade at a 45 degree angle; trim the vinyl so that it can’t be grabbed by ice or snow and peal back. In the case of a cap ski or board, trim along the upper edge of the steel edges. Keeping the edge of the SkiHide firmly pressed down and out of harms way.
9. Once all the trimming is completed it’s time to apply the special protective tape provided with your kit. This will help protect the top edge of your SkiHide. Again, wash down the top surface the of your SkiHide with alcohol, let dry for 10 min. Again using the Hideglue applicator, apply a 1” stripe on the top edge of the vinyl. (same as before) Now peal off a few inches of the protective paper from the tape. Lay the tape along the edge only over the SkiHide. Start at the tip and work towards the tail. If you have not removed the bindings, work from the tip to center then from tail to the center.
10. Cut the ends of the tape at a 45 degree angle, the pointy portion should be on the inside away from the edge of the equipment. When installing the tape... DO NOT STRETCH THE TAPE WHILE APPLYING IT. (even a little bit) Lay it down slowly without pulling it. For ease of handling it’s a good idea to pre measure the tape and cut it to the desired length.
11. Once the tape is in place, firmly smooth it using the soft cloth as before. Make sure to remove all bubbles and air pockets from under the tape for the best adhesion possible.
12. Finally replace the bindings, tip protectors or any other bits that were removed. Let the equipment set up over night. In the morning give your creation a once over to insure everything is where it’s suppose to be.
13. In the event your skihide begins to peal, simply bring your equipment into warm dry places, dry the effected area and reapply a fresh layer of Hideglue to re-stick the SkiHide or tape back into place.
Keep an eye on our web site; we’re planning a number of exciting new offerings.
Customize your ride….
