What epoxy works best for repairing a damaged ski or snowboard while not compromising its properties or performance? The best epoxy that is recommended by many Do-it-Yourselfers for snowboard or ski repair is the J-B Weld Original Cold-Weld Steel Reinforced Epoxy.
Last update on 2024-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Even if we never venture far from the groomers, stray rocks and other obstacles sometimes damage our precious skis and snowboards beyond cosmetic scratches. Delamination, core shots, and other types of damage do occur and repairing them can be costly at our local shops.
However, many repairs are easy to perform at home with the right materials and some basic understanding of ski construction. For nearly all ski or snowboard repairs, a good epoxy is going to bring your ski back to an almost new state without a lot of investment in either time or money.
An epoxy for ski repair needs to remain pliant and flexible in extreme cold while also sealing the ski and keeping water from penetrating the core. Keep reading to learn more.
Reviews of the Best Epoxies for Ski & Snowboard Repair
1. J-B Weld Original Cold-Weld Steel Reinforced Epoxy
J-B Weld
At the same time, the epoxy does not crack or lose its integrity in extreme temperatures, allowing it to work on ski bases as well as laminates. Others have even reported that they are able to reset blown edges, although this takes quite a bit of skill and know-how to do.
Additionally, although labeled a “quick setting” epoxy, J-B Weld Original sets in 4-6 hours and does not succumb to the problems of other quick setting epoxies. It remains a top choice for most when their skis or snowboards need help.
Pros:
- Incredibly strong bond that sets in 4-6 hours
- Can withstand extreme temperatures
Cons:
- Some find it hard to spread and apply
2. FastSteel Epoxy
Although deemed only for steel and other metals, many ski technicians and other ski repair DIYers swear by the FastSteel Epoxy. Incredibly easy to put on and mold through hand kneading, this epoxy forms a powerful bond with the ski material, whether you are repairing a base or a topsheet.
FastSteel has a reputation of lasting for years. So, after you have applied this to your repair, you will most likely feel assured that you should not need to use it again.
Pros:
Strong , long-lasting bond- Easy to apply as a putty
Cons:
- Some question its ability to bond with materials other than metal
3. Polymeric Systems AquaMend Underwater Epoxy
The Polymeric Systems AquaMend Underwater Epoxy is guaranteed to accomplish what other epoxies only imply: keep water out and stay bonded and sealed even when damp or underwater.
Hand-kneadable, the epoxy mixes easily and is simple to apply in a variety of settings. Some of my friends keep one of these sticks handy in their ski kit for quick repairs, as the set time is quite fast (about an hour) and can be applied in all conditions.
Pros:
- Waterproof seal and bond
- Can be applied in a variety of conditions, wet or dry
Cons:
- Some users have stated that although it does bond while wet, it may not form a strong bond
How to Choose the Right Epoxy for Ski or Snowboard Repair – Buyer’s Guide
The main consideration for choosing the right epoxy is what type of repair you are performing.
Topsheet delamination repairs can be accomplished with a variety of epoxies, whereas base core shots (cuts or scratches where the core is exposed) need a very strong bonding epoxy.
Regardless, you will need an epoxy that seals tight and keeps water from penetrating the layers of the ski. All of the epoxies here will perform this, but make sure to read the instructions carefully and allow for full cure time before exposing the repaired ski or board to the slopes.
Related article: Best Glue for Mounting Ski Bindings
My Choice for the Best Epoxy for Ski & Snowboard Repair
The J-B Weld Original Cold-Weld Steel Reinforced Epoxy should be the go-to choice for most repairs of snowboards or skis, either on the base or on the
Skiers for quite some time have used the product with great success, and its reputation as an epoxy that retains its bond for seasons is well known. Therefore, although each product provides a good seal for most repairs, the J-B Weld should work for most, if not all, repairs you will encounter and can fix on your own.
Top Rated Epoxies
Last update on 2024-11-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
