Vola lime VIIALA 200mm

How do you choose the right file for sharpening skis?

The choice of file depends mainly on the desired level of finish, its intended use and the technician’s preferences.

> Racing files are designed for preparing skis for competition and meet the requirements of technicians seeking a high level of precision. They are available in two grades: Medium, for the initial passes, and Fine. They enable very clean work with an excellent finish.

> Cutofino files are a more affordable option for edge maintenance and sharpening. Also highly favoured by technicians, the Medium Fine is suitable for initial passes, whilstthe Extra Fine delivers a higher-quality finish. Medium Fine = 14 teeth per cm, Extra Fine = 16 teeth per cm

> VIIALA and VALLORBE files are commonly used for preparing competition skis. The choice between the two depends primarily on each technician’s habits and personal preference: some prefer the feel of VIIALA, others that of VALLORBE. VIIALA files are chrome-plated and therefore last longer. The non-chrome-plated VALLORBE files allow for a more direct attack on the edge. VALLORBE files are slightly thicker and therefore slightly stiffer.

> The roughing file is designed for more substantial work, particularly for removing deep scratches. Some technicians also use it to work on the edges, or even the base, following a repair involving filling.

> The replacement file for Ergoss is a basic sharpening file measuring 120 x 25 mm, with a medium-fine cut of 10 teeth per cm.

Finally, the quality of a file is characterised in particular by the regularity and precision of its teeth, its flatness and the hardness of its material. These characteristics directly influence the precision of the work, the consistency of the sharpening and the durability of the file. 200 mm file, 14 teeth per cm – 150 mm file, 16 teeth per cm

Key point: generally speaking, the coarsest files and 200 mm sizes are preferred for the initial passes, whilst finer files and 150 mm sizes are used for finishing and help to preserve the edge.