So you’ve just unboxed your brand-new Arbor snowboard, a thing of beauty and potential powder-slaying prowess. Excitement is high, and the urge to hit the slopes is undeniable. But amidst the anticipation, a crucial question lingers: Do I Need To Wax My New Arbor Snowboard? This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about performance and the longevity of your investment.
Understanding Your New Arbor Snowboard’s Base
When you purchase a new snowboard, especially from a reputable brand like Arbor, it typically comes with a factory wax. This initial wax serves a few important purposes. It protects the base material from drying out during transit and storage, and it provides a baseline level of glide for your initial runs. Think of it as a protective shield and a gentle introduction to how your board will interact with the snow.
However, this factory wax is often applied in a generic temperature range and may not be optimized for the specific conditions you’ll be riding in. Furthermore, the base material itself, often a sintered polyethylene, can be porous. This means it’s designed to absorb wax, and that absorption is key to its performance. The importance of a properly waxed base cannot be overstated; it directly impacts how smoothly and quickly your board glides across the snow.
Here’s a breakdown of what a new board’s base is like:
- Factory Wax
- Base Material Porosity
And what it means for your riding:
- Initial Glide: The factory wax will get you going.
- Wax Absorption: A dry base won’t hold wax effectively.
- Condition Optimization: Tailoring wax to snow temperature is vital.
To truly unlock the potential of your new Arbor snowboard and ensure the best possible riding experience from the very first descent, it’s highly recommended to apply a fresh coat of wax suited to the current snow conditions. This initial waxing will not only enhance your glide but also help saturate the base material, preparing it for future waxing sessions and a longer lifespan.
For a comprehensive guide on how to choose the right wax and apply it effectively to your new Arbor snowboard, consult the detailed instructions provided by Arbor Snowboards themselves. Their resources offer expert advice tailored to their specific board constructions.