Equipment Section By H. Bruce Carnall

The Equipment Section is an Open Forum wherein the lalesl and besl in equipment is impartially reviewed. While much of the modern ski equipment is developed and made in Europe, it may be obtained through our adverlisers. - EDIToR

BEGINNERS It is evident that the Equipment Section is equipment without excessive cost; and those often used as' a Buyer's Guide for the novice. who want a suitable outfit atthe lowest possible The first part is therefore devoted to the begin- outlay. It is also assumed that beginners de- ner with the hope that it will make it easier to sire equipment that will be satisfactory when choose proper equipment. Ski-ing demands they become more proficient and that they are proper equipment from the outset to aid begin- interested in receiving full value for their ex- ners to master the technique, and every possible penditures. For simplicity, the recommenda- safety device to prevent accidents. There are tions are tabulated and further information three financial classes of beginners: those who concerning most of the items will be found)n do not consider cost; those who demand proper the Equipment Section. THE BEST-AT ANY COST. I THE BEST-REASONABLY. I THE MOST-FOR THE LEAST. Hickory. Hickory,ImportedAsh, Birch, Maple. Birch, Maple, (flat-top models). For length, reach as high as possible with your fingers: the tip of the ski should just reach your wrist. Choose rather light and flexible skis with less arch than usual and beware of very narrow, very wide, and very heavy models. EDGES Composition (bakelite, fibre, etc.), I None. I None. LIGNOSTONE. Metal edges are positively not recommended until the various turns are mastered and it is usually better to slightly round the ski edge (especially at the heel and upturn) to facilitate turning. BINDINGS Toe irons with worm-gear adjust­ Adjustable toe Irons (ALPINA, HUITFELDT for mortised skis and in­ ment (SILVER - KING, UNITAS, CHALET, EZEFIX, GEZE STAND­ expensive CHALET, EZEFIX, M.E., ALPINA-PRECISION, etc.) for pre­ ARD, TRAIL BLAZER, WED GE­ TRAIL BLAZER, -LOCK, etc. ference, and KANDAHAR-type heel LOCK, etc.). The heel attachments for un mortised skis. Satisfactory attachments to be used only at the should be removable and, for toe irons can be made from steel touring position until the various additional safety and convenience, right angles and used with turns are completely learned. use BILDSTEIN SPRING - HEEL - ordinary heel-attachments. Make certain that there is a CLAMPS. touring position giving true hori­ zontal pull. For preference, use bindings "lith toe straps and fit the toe irons exactly so that the toe of the protrudes only about one-half inch and so that there is absolutely no lateral movement of the heel. Austrian, German, Swiss, (MUSSAK, I Canadian-made boots of European I Strong, rather stiff and heavy boots WIESS - BLAU, BALLY, RAKOV- design (VON, HANNES SCHNEIDER, of simple but correct design for SKY, RIEKER .. etc.). GARMISCH, etc.) ski-ing. Proper ski boots are essential for safety and comfort; fit them snugly over one :eair of heavy and one pair of light as they will stretch with use-especia1l1 where they lace. The heel must be held so that it does not move within the boot. Nailed boots, as used in climbmg, are not recommended. Oil, which softens and makes leather spongy, should not be used but a combined dubbin and leather food will preserve and. waterproof the boots. Special ski-boot trees should be used to preserve the shape of the boots. 86 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937

STICKS THE BEST-AT ANY COST. THE BEST-REASONABLY. THE MOST-FOR THE LEAST. TANGVALD steel or cellulose-covered Tonkin Cane with leather or fabric Tonkin cane, bamboo, VON spruce; tonkin cane with rubber (RAKOV- grips and wide hand-loops. without special grip but with SKY) or leather grips. wide hand-loop. Never use a single ski stick, always use two or none. Insist upon a wide hand loop (1 in.). Sticks should be light, well balanced, and strong, with a light snow ring. For length: with the point on the floor, the top should pass easily under the armpit. Longer sticks are unwieldy. Trousers: CLOTHING Closely-woven serge or gaberdine with zipper pockets and zipper closing. Ordinary trousers of smooth mater­ GRENFELL CLOTH, and similar materials, are not recommended for trousers. ial, or overalls-but not breeches. Jacket: Short jacket and longer parka of I Fairly long jacket. with detachable I Windbreaker, old trench coat with GRENFELL CLOTH, ADIRONDACK parka hood, of GRENFELL CLOTH, the bottom cut off, loose-fitting POPLIN or similar material. ADIRONDACK POPLIN, etc. suit coat, etc. Trousers and jacket of smooth, closely-woven materials through which wind will not drive and to which snow will not adhere. Blanket Cloth and similar woolly materials are not so good. Mitts: Horsehide or GRENFELL CLOTH with leather-faced palms and thumb. The I \Vorking mitts of leather or canvas lining should be removable for easy drying. with removable linings. Mitts are important as beginners ofte n spend much of their time buried in snow. Coloured sheepskin mitts run and s.tain as well as soaking up the snow water, and wear out rapidly. Woollen mitts are advised as a lining for other mitts. Hat: The most satisfactory -gear seems to be the Norwegian-type of ski cap, or the knitted or ear-warmer, ei.ther with the top knitted in or left open as is usually the case. For extremely cold and windy weather, nothing Will take the place of a parka hood worn over a woollen cap. - GENERAL Do not make the mistake of wearing heavy clothing which impedes movement but rather wear light wind and showerproof garments which do not overheat the body when exercising and yet prevent you from getting wet and cold. Always remember that several thin layers of clothing are much warmer than a single thick layer. TROCKEN-WOOL is very highly recommended for all knitted goods (sweaters, mitts, , ear bands, etc.) WAX To preserve and waterproof the ski wood. have a base wax applied and use a simple and reli:tble surface wax at all times for climbing and running. This will save a great deal of effort in climbing hills and will make downhill running steadier and turning ,easier. Always use to help you both uphill and downhill. '

Skis in fin~ncing the expensive moulds and forms but it should be possible to make a satisfactory The tremendous popularity of ski-ing has pair of skis by hand for experimental purposes. made such great demands on the available sup­ I shall be glad to receive observatious and opi­ ply of suitable ski woods---especially hickroy­ nions of those who have considered this problem that manufacturers are finding it increasingly The average skis are not flexible over the en­ difficult to obtain sa tisfactory rna terial. This has tire length, becoming increasingly stiff towards resulted in many skiers preferring good sound the centre, with no bend under the foot­ ash, birch and maple, to indifferent hickory. plate; so that even with the whole weight of Canadian ash, of the right grade, is be­ the body on one ski, it is often impossible to coming more and more difficult to obtain but completely flatten out the camber under the much of the European ash is suitable. Unless binding. While very supple to very stiff skis are some synthetic-material ski is soon produced, available, yet because the centre portion is nearly birch and maple from the Canadian north may always stiff and unbending, the difference in ultimately supplant hickory for most skiers. flexibility is towards the end of the ski. This While skis of solid wood have in the past is a great disadvantage. proved most satisfactory, wood is not the ideal Too flexible skis are not suited to high speed material because it breaks, splits, warps, twists, on hard snow, while stiff skis ride badly over and wears rapidly. As a result and because irregular terrain. Therefore the ideal ski is of wood is not uniform, manufacturers are looking medium flexibility; but this compromise is not for a substitute. Metal skis and skis with metal wholly successful because the flexibility is not running-surfaces have obvious disadvantages uniform over the whole length of the ski. and the ski of the future will undoubtedly be In the past, uniform flexibility has not been made of some synthetic material and possibly so important but with modern technique and reinforced with metal edges moulded in during high-speed ski-ing, it is a decided advantage. '" the manufacturing process. From a manufac­ Mr. Thor Tangvald, a Norwegian by birth, and turing point of view, the difficulty seems to be an experienced skier, now has produced a ski, CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 87 designed especially for modern ski-ing technique, SPLITKEIN skis are available with LIGNO­ and one uniformly flexible over the entire STONE edges built in during manufacture. length. Having tested this new design most LIGNOSTONE is a special impregnated beech­ thoroughly last season, he states that it follows wood material that was developed as a substi­ the irregularities of the slope like a flexible ski tute for metal during the War. It is hard, and yet, like a stiff ski, holds perfectly, without rather stiff, and resists chipping and bruising. vibrations, on hard snow and in high speed LIGNOSTONE does not make as sharp an edge as turns. In combining the advantages of both steel, of course, and most skiers may prefer to flexible and stiff models, the new TANGVALD apply a metal edge or to use a MARIUS ERICK­ design should prove a great advance in ski SEN edge in combination with the LTGNOSTONE. making. Generally speaking, laminated skis have not TANGVALD skis are supplied with impregna­ been an outstanding success but the GRESVIG ted and stained bottoms, and as only a proper reputation, combined with the favourable re­ ski-finish will protect the wood against moisture ports that I have received, lead me to believe the base wax is to be applied direct without that the unique GRESVIG OESTBYE-SPLITKEIN scraping off the special finish. Last season, I ski should be successful. SPLITKEIN skis are followed this recommendation with success and guaranteed against warping and Mr. Saetrang used the older TANGVALD model with complete tells me they seem faster than other skis. I am satisfaction. The workmanship is excellent. looking forward to testing them thoroughly Fifteen to eie;hteen lamina tions make up the this season. new GRESVIG OEST BYE-SPLITKEIN ski tha twas In ATTENHOFER'S current catalogue is offered used with great success by the Norwegian com­ the MODELL FURRER, named after Otto Furrer, petitors here last season. The SPLITK EIN ski described as "the Ski for those who demand the Best." This ATTENHOFER model was used here considerably last season and I am told that it is excellent for modern requirements. On the other hand, I consider the ZOGG model rather too wide for most runners. ATTENHOFER skis have a world-wide reputation of long standing.

Edges Because they are satisfactory, easily applied and inexpensive, LETTNER edges are popular in Canada. After much arguing · about speed, durability and weight, steel is generally used consists of a laminated core of light wood pro­ and many dealers stock LETTNER edges. There tected on all sides by hickory lamina tions. are two main disadvantages to the LETTNER Unlike most modern skis, the SPLITKEIN is flat­ type. From the skier's point of view screwing topped. Because flat-top skis have a more uni­ metal to the ski is not entirely satisfactory form spring over the entire length and because because, as the ski bends, screws work loose, there is more wood to hold applied edges, they come au t, and then the edge is often ripped off. are generally preferable to domed models. How­ From the dealer's point of view sinking the ever, snow accumulates more on a flat ski and screws is a slow and expensive operation in the solution may lie in an oval or slightly-domed applying edges and it is usually impossible to top. SPLITKEIN skis are supplied with a tar­ determine whether or not a customer's com­ impregnated bottom that does not require plaint about screwed-on edges is justified. The scraping before the base-wax is applied. The ultimate in edges will not be fastened by screws. groove is wide and shallow, like the Finnish While many edges held by other means are skis, probably because the hickory lamina tions available, some make the ski too stiff, others are not sufficiently thick for the usual narrow require special and expensive machinery for and deep groove. SPLITKEIN' skis ar.e supplied applying, and all are more expensive than the in a light-weight model for touring and a LETTNER type. heavier model for racing. The core of the tour­ As a general rule, a sharper edge is used for ing model is fir or pine and mountain ash is racing than is desirable for touring. For used in the competition model. The J heavier general purposes, when ski is stiffer than the other and, as a conse­ a sharp edge is not quence, there is less "chatter" in high-speed required, I have found turns and on rough snow. Mr. J. A. Saetrang, the GLOCKNER type representing GRESVIG, states that the OESTBYE­ excellen t. This edge SPLITKEIN ski has been a practical success for consists of a bed of short touring, downhill, slalom, jumping, and cross­ metal strips, screwed to country racing. the ski, over which a 88 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 one-piece metal cover is drawn. In this wayan to reinforce the wood but this makes rather unbroken surface is contacted with the snow an expensive and complicated job. MARTUS and, at the same time, the flexibility of the ski ERICKSEN edges. therefore, are only recom­ is not effected because the cover slides freely mended in special cases such as with SPLITKElN over the bed of short strips. This design of skis that are already edged with LlGNOSTONE. edge is supplied by a number of manufacturers: The Swiss ~'IRN edge (made in steel, brass, and ALLGA U-TRl U MPH (brass), RA KOVS KY­ duraluminum) is similar to the MARIUS ERICK­ GLOCKNER (two widths of steel), PETERLONGO SEN steel edge supplied in 2Y2-inch strips. GLOCKNER (steel), and SILBERHORN (brass or Combining both metal and composition in steel). one edge may be the solution. This composite When a sharp edge is required, I would sug­ edge has a very small area gest the COLUMBUS EDGE which is made in of metal on the running­ Austria by RAKOVSKY and in Switzerland by surface and yet it rein­ ATTENHOFER. The COLUMBUS edge consists of forces the wood near the ten-inch strips of spring steel .05 x .21 inches. edge so that it does not There is a double bend in the centre of each wear away from the me­ strip; on one side of the bend there are oval tal. At leas t two such edges slots and on the other side the usual counter­ are available. The SAN­ sunk holes. As shown, the applied edge over­ NER-KoMBl is metal with laps throughout the entire length. The strips a projecting arm to which is attached a strip of composition. The complete edge is cemented to the ski and reinforced by screws. The Swiss WElSSHORN edge (supplied in both brass and ATTENHOFEE _Jl~==C=O=L=V.=~=~=v.=~======steel) is composed of a thin L-shaped metal strip set in composition. Slots in the vertical metal arm allow the edge to bend freely. For are applied with the oval slots next to the ski the SANNER-KoMBI, an ordinary rabbet is and the countersunk holes on the outside. The sufficient but the WEISSHORN edge requires outer half of each individual strip is securely special tools because the wood of the ski projects held by the screws while the inner half is free into a slot in the composition part of the edge. to move because of the oval slots through which It would be interesting to hear from skiers the screws pass. This sliding action is facil­ who have used either of these two edges. itated by the paraffin-graphite mixture with CHALET skis will be supplied with LETTNER­ which each strip is coated. In practice, the type edges applied at the factory this season. applied edge moves quite freely as the ski bends This is a great advance because comparatively and this can easily be seen from the side. The few shops are equipped to make a first class job COLUMBUS edge retains all the advantages of of edging skis. Harvey E. Dodds Limited is the LETTNER type and overcomes most of the ° the first Canadian ski manufacturer to regu­ disadvantages. The only objections are that larily supply edged ski and it is hoped that the some prefer an unbroken running surface and venture will be completely successful. others consider that there should be less metal on the running surface. However, having used COLUMBUS edges last season, I feel confident in recommending them. MARIUS ERICKSEN steel and brass edges are applied to the sides of the ski instead of to the running surface. Many skiers do not like this edge and I am told that it tends to catch much more easily than other types. The great ad­ vantage is the small area of metal on the run­ ning surface, metal tending to make the ski run Partly because they require special mounting more slowly. This narrow strip of metal at the tools, STAEHLI EXPRESS, KULM, and TELL very edge of the ski is the main source of trouble edges have not become very popular here. Herr Staehli has now produced a new model, known as the STAEHLI GS, that is made up of short lengths 50 mm long, 7 mm wide, and 1 mm MAe/us Ee/CKSEN thick. This new model requires only a simple Ow rabbet and should not present greater mounting • a " difficulties than the LETTNER type. The two­ inch strips are flat with an identical acute bevel at each end. After securing the foremost strip however, because the wood wears away from wit4 two screws, additional sections are held by the edge and this is probably why they tend to slipping the front end under the corresponding catch more than other types. To overcome bevel at the back of the strip in front and this wear, a composition edge can be applied screwing down the rear end. In this' way, with CANADIAN $Kl YEAR BOOK, 1937 89

the exception of the first strip, only one screw The front-stretcher serves two purposes: in ad­ is used to secure each piece. To prevent the ition to tightening the cable when the binding strips from pivoting on the one screw and slip­ is put on, it has five grooves to adjust the cable ping out laterally, the bevelled edges are for length and, consequently, tension. The tongued and grooved. In the applied edge, cable it!>elf is made of braided or twisted wire and this is covered with a metal sheath to pre­ vent wear. At the back of the cable is a strong spring to go around the heel and provide the essential "give" when diagonal pull is used. The toe irons of some KANDAHAR bindings are fitted with special lugs to hold the cable and give true diagonal pull. One therefore has the choice of horizontal pull and two degrees of diagonal pull. While diagonal pull is a great aid to control when each strip is securely screwed down at one end running downhill, it is not while the other end is held in such a way that desirable for running on vertical and lateral movement is prevented and the level or, usually, for yet the strips have no horizontal attachment. climbing. Therefore, when Consequently, this edge does not stiffen the ski you purchase a binding, at all and there is no stress on the individual make certain that there is a screws as the ski bends. A further advantage true horizontal-pull posi­ is that the screws are two inches apart and this tion. Even a very weak prevents much of the splitting that is common diagonal pull will not give when screws are closer together. · The STAEHLI the same satisfaction. GS model, which is supplied in brass and steel, Mr. Peter Lunn, Honor­ is perhaps the most interesting of all the new ary Equipment Editor of edges. . The British Ski Year Book and a well-known British ski racer, writes: "The great Bindings argument against the KAN­ DAHAR binding is that it With the possible exception of wax, there has will never open in a fall; been more argument about bindings than any many racers, and I am one, other part of the ski equipment. Controversy are prepared to take the resulting from the introduction of edges mo­ risk in return for that feel­ mentarily occupied seasoned debaters but they ing of control, which only soon shook off this new question and eagerly the KANDAHAR gives." returned to the "Battle of the Bindings" with Many skiers feel that the renewed vigour. Edges may now have their KANDAHAR binding is too turn, however, because the perfection of modern dangerous because it holds ski bindings leaves so little to be desired that the footsofirmly that severe argument becomes useless. No matter how injuries often result from a different they were at first, the final designs of bad fall. It is my conten­ outstanding models are practically identical. tion that the same feeling The KANDAHAR-type binding has swept the of control, without the field for downhill, slalom, jumping, and now for attendant danger, can be touring. The LANG RIEMAN binding of a few had by using the newer years ago was all leather with the exception of KANDAHAR-SPECIAL bind­ a ring and buckle: t~ KANDAHAR-type binding ing. This model is similar of today is all metal with the exception of the to the KANDAHAR except Geze Silver-King toe strap. that the cable is tightened Kandanar-Spccial model Toe irons, front-stretcher, cable, and side by a BILDSTEIN SPRING- HEEL-CLAMP at the back instead of by Geze Kandahar. the front-stretcher. In place of the front­ showing horizontal pull stretcher. there is a similar clip with five notches for adjusting the length and tension of the cable. The opening and releasing action of the BILD­ Geze Kandahar, STEIN SPRING-REEL-CLAMP in a bad fall is well showing diagonal known and. so far as I can determine, the feel­ pull ing of solidity and control is equal to that of the KANDAHAR. It would be most helpful to hooks, make up the KANDAHAR binding which learn the opinions of other skiers who have is now manufactured in numerous countries. used both models. The KANDAHAR-SPECIAL The toe irons can be of any sturdy construction. binding is more expensive than the KANDAHAR. 90 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937

The new ATTENHOFER ALPINA 4-STAR bind­ at the heel to prevent the metal cutting into ing is an improvement over former models. The the boot. The lever of the front-stretcher is somewhat clumsy arrangement of combined made in such a way that it can readily be ad­ footplate and hooks for diagonal pull has give.n justed for greater or less tension in addition to place to a simple hook of the usual type. ThIs the more usual method of regulating the cable. The toe irons are fitted with a curved guide under which the cable passes for horizontal pull and a pressed guide for diagonal pull. Hooks are not screwed to the sides of the ski. The diagonal pull is regulated by ten­ sion on the cable rather than lowering and mov­ ing back the pivot point. This does not seem hook may be fixed in any desired position and, advantageous. The horizonfoal-pull. guide~ .on combined with the guide running under the toe the toe irons do not hold the cable m pOSItIon iron, is equivalent, in practice, to the double and seem too large. While it is claimed that KANDAHAR-hook. Formerly, the cable ran under very few skiers run with their feet so close to­ a groove in front of the mounted toe iron; now gether that the bindings touch, it is common there is a separate guide in the same position. indeed to have the toe irons lock together and This alteration makes possible the use of cause a bad fall. While the MONTANA-DIAGO­ ALPINA 4-STAR attachments with other toe NAL toe irons could lock together because of the irons. On meeting Herr Attenhofer last season large cable-guides, most other toe irons are now almost immediately he pointed out that the made with small guides that do not catch. ALPINA 4-STAR could now be supplied with MONTANA toe irons have a most unusual and ALPINA- PRECISION toe irons. He must have interesting toothed arrangement for adjusting. read the 1936 Equipment Section to mention They are easily and accurately fitted to the boot this so promptly! The length of the ALPINA and should prove most satisfactory. 4-STAR cable is regulated most precisely by Herr Ing. Emil Koller, designer of the MON­ turning the milled knob where it joins the TANA-DIAGONAL binding, suggests a combine? BILDSTEIN SPRING-HEEL-CLAMP. This knob is position for touring: place the cables at hOri­ threaded on the insid~ to correspond with the zontal pull on the insi~e an~ at dia~onal pull cable sheathing which is really coiled steel wire. on the outside. It WIll be mterestmg to try Some concern about the strength of this con­ this. nection has been expressed here. In addition The UNITAS FEDERZUG attachments are simi­ to the reliability of the manufacturer, it 5hould lar to the KANDAHAR and prove, equally satis­ be noted that eleven deep threads are engaged factory. The cable is 'prac.tically identical but and that the coiled sheathing butts against a the front stretcher qUlte dIfferent: The cable solid sleeve securely soldered to the end of the is held by a small guide and then tightened by actual steel cable. The only objection to the a lever in the same way as the KANDAHAR. ALPINA 4-STAR binding is that there is no provi­ When greater' tension on the cable is desire~, sion for horizontal pull. Herr Attenhofer can an additional lever is pushed forward. This easily overcome this by ,fitting his toe irons makes it easy to regulate the tension of the with a small guide. cable. By means of a sturdy toothed arrange­ Unlike other bindings of this type, the MON­ ment, the length of the cable is als? adjusted by TANA-DIAGONAL does not have a spring around the front-stretcher. UNITAS toe Irons are now the heel. Instead, there is a special compres­ fitted with guides for horizontal pull but, like sion spring (guaranteed to function properly the MONTANA-DIAGONAL guides, they are large and massive. Such large cable guides are un­ necessary and dangerous falls may result. The UNITAS manufacturers maintain that horizon­ tal pull is not necessary and that their double tension front-stretcher makes it unnecessary to alter the posi~ion.of the cable. ~ew skiers wip agree with this VIew because hOrizontal pull IS certainly preferable for ski-ing on the level and, usually, for climbing. A worm-gear adjusted toe iron is now generally conceded to be the best. ALMONTE, ALPINA­ PRECISION, GEZESILVER-KING (SILBERMODELL), and UNITAS toe irons are adjustable in this way. Montana-Diagonal binding and Tc-Ma ski boot The GEZE SILVER-KING differs from the others in that the jaws are not connected directly.with under all conditions) incorporated in the front­ the, spindle of the worm-gear. The spmdle stretcher which also serves to regulate the actuates a solid bronze block which, in turn, length of the cable. The cable itself is the moves the actual toe iron. The manufacturers usual sheathed type and there is rubber tubing state: "The side pressure of the jaws is not CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 91 tra

Sticks Geze Silver King There is no set rule governing the proper pressure should make this binding strong length for ski sticks. The general trend, how­ enough for most skiers] ever, is definitely in favour of considerably Worm-gear adjustable toe irons combined shorter sticks both for cross country, downhill with KANDAHAR-type heel attachments giving and slalom. Short sticks are lighter, better both horizontal and diagonal pull, result in the balanced, stronger, safer, less tiring, and easier perfect . The GEZE SILVER-KING to handle. While many skiers may prefer KA:t\TDAHAR-SPECIAL model is now made in longer sticks, I recommend a length that will Canada by Allcock, Laight & Westwood pass easily under the arm-pit. When the Swiss Co., Ltd. This excellent binding combines Ski Team visited here last winter, it was inter­ the most modern features and now sells in esting to note that they all used short sticks. Canada for less than the GEZE-KANDAHAR did Met a 1 last season although the KANDAHAR-SPECIAL s ticks are design is more' expensive than the KANDAHAR. now perfect­ Allcock, Laight & Westwood Co., Ltd. also ed and steel produce 'another model of the KANDAHAR­ emerges VIC­ SPECIAL design. This EZEFIX KANDAHAR­ torious over SPECIAL model is perfectly reliable but less ex­ aluminum, pensive than the model with GEZE SILVER­ duralumin­ KING toe irons. EZEFIX bindings are manu­ urn, and factured in Canada under license from the other alloys European Patentees and, in addition to the tested. The KANDAHAR-type model, there are two less ex­ salient ad­ pensive bindings with the usual heel attach­ vantage of ments. Last season, I tested the EZEFIX bind­ metal sticks ing and found it most satisfactory. In the is that they EZEFIX KANDAHAR-SPECIAL model, Canadian are uniform skiers are for the first time offered an inexpen­ and will not sive modern ski binding. split, while the best cane varIes, IS affected by changes in temperature and, is diffi­ culMomatch exactly in pairs, while splitting is a common fault. Tobereal­ ly success­ ful, metal sticks should The new metal footplates now manufactured possess all in Canada by both Harvey E. Dodds Limited the advant­ and Allcock, Laight & Westwood Co., Ltd. ages of the should prove popular. These footplates con­ best ton­ sist of a thin metal cover over a light wooden kin cane, be Tangvald Stick 92 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937

uniform, free from splitting, and better when equipment must be depended upon and balanced. Unfortunately, most metal sticks reliability is the first consideration, hazel ski are not entirely satisfactory and some are great­ sticks are often chosen, as the shafts are practi­ ly inferior to good cane. cally unbreakable. MURO ski sticks should be TANGVALD STICKS are excellent, they have of interest not only for expeditions but also for been improved each year, and it will be difficult general ski-ing, and are guaranteed unbreak­ to better the present model. They have shafts able. The tonkin cane shaft is covered with of conical steel tubing especially developed for cellulose to prevent splitting, with a central core this purpose. The very slightly curved points of light wood to reinforce the cane and prevent are securely spot-welded to the steel shaft and breakage. The MURO sticks that I have ex­ cannot come out. A good snow ring of the amined are surprisingly light and well balanced; metal-and-leather type is fitted and this part of the workmanship excellent. These sticks were the steel shaft is now reinforced by a special selected by the 1936 Swiss Himalaya Expedi­ patented insert, greatly strengthening the stick. tion. Leather grips, to protect the fingers against The new ATTENHOFER HICO patented ski cold, are fitted to all models. The shafts are stick is an interesting development. This mo­ supplied in chromium plate, cream, irradiant del seems to be made of laminated strips of blue or red cellulose, and baked black enamel. cane permitting tapering the stick from grip to TANGVALD STICKS are now made in Canada point in the same way as the TANGVALD steel and equal in every way thosemadeinEurope. sticks taper. For those who prefer cane to Skiers are now seldom injured by their sticks metal, the ATTENHOFER HICO stick seems to when they fall and this is attributed to the warrant further investigation. A similar stick, general adoption of properly designed wrist about which details are not yet available, straps. It is important that the whole hand be will be manufactured in Canada by Allcock, passed through the strap from below and that Laight & Westwood Co., Ltd. This model the thumb and fingers grip both the top of the will be made in the same way as fine cane fishing stick and the strap, as with this method of hold­ poles and should prove most successful. ing the sticks they are thrown outwards in most bad falls. When purchasing sticks make certain that the wrist straps are about one inch wide and properly designed; when using sticks Bools make certain that you grip them correctly. There seems to be considerable confusion re­ Snow rings cause many dangerous falls by garding the name of the ski boot described in catching in trees, bushes, and other obstructions. the last issue as the RIEKE~ RIKOMA. In Herr Rakovsky points out that 80 per cent of Germany it is now called the RIEKER RIKOSTA, ski-ing accidents are arm injuries. Since 1933, in Switzerland it is called the TE-MA, and pro­ I have used and strongly advocated RAKOVSKY bably there are other names for this design in and BERGER SCHNEEFLOSSEN discs in place of France, Italy, Jugoslavia, and Sweden, where the usual snow rings; they are reinforced, rub­ berized, flexible, and do not catch. It might be thought these flat discs gather snow on the upper surface but this is not the case and in all ways the discs are as satisfactory as the usual snow rings. They are, however, slightly heav­ ier and Herr Rakovsky has now produced a new model made of chrome leather, which is no heavier than the standard snow rings. Last season, I used the leather model with complete sa tisfaction. A sharp point is essential on a ski stick but becomes dangerous when carrying the sticks. The ABC-FACTORIES of Kungalv, Sweden, have produced an efficient guard for the spike and this guard is an integral part of the snow ring. When not cover­ ing the point, it clips to a it is also manufactured. TE-MA seems to be a special holder and does not suitable name as it is derived from the surnames in any way interfere with of the joint inventors: Mr. Giovanni Testa, the action of the snow ring. Testa , St. Moritz; and Dr. Eugen The combined point guard and snow ring may Matthias, Professor of Physiological Move­ be had at slight extra cost with any of the ment, University of Munich, who says: various well-made ABC sticks. "In only one particular is the development I¥l.. For serious ski-mountaineering expeditions somewhat one-sided. Ski technique necessi- CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 93 tates a boot with a low heel, whereas the mo­ These were worn by an SAS (Swiss) competitor dern crouch calls for perpetual sinking of the in the 1937 Quebec-Kandahar and, as the race body. If one bends the knees naturally, the was about to start, I did not feel that he would heels tend to rise. If, however, the skier allows welcome an enquiry about his boots at that them to do so, he loses the correct control of time. However, I hope to test a pair during his ski, while if he forces them down he strains the present season, and the opinions of others his peroneal muscles." who use this boot will be welcome. Dr. Mathias goes on to explain that both Daoust, Lalonde & Co., Ltd. of Montreal, old this, and the continual forcing of one's foot on established makers of dependable ski boots, to an outside edge on the turns, ultimately have secured the exclusive manufacturing and leave a permanent impression upon the skier's selling rights for HANNES SCHNEIDER ski boots physique. He continues: in Canada. The various models will be hahd­ "This faulty development is encouraged by sewn throughout and welted in the usual the strap, which is so often and so wrongly at­ European manner. The Austrian HANNES­ tached to the boot; the muscles, which pull from SCHNEIDER ski boots that I have seen are ex­ the front of the shin to the front of the foot, are cellent and Daoust, Lalonde & Co., Ltd., with greatly hindered in their action by such straps. their long experience in ski-boot manufacturing, It is obvious that both these causes of should certainly produce an excellent Canadian faulty development can be overcome by the made boot. It is unfortunate that further de­ correct construction of the ski boot. tails are not available at this time. "Working in close co-operation Mr. Giov. Skiers now do their boots up so tightly that Testa and Prof. Dr. E. Mathias have solved preventing painful pressure of the lacing on the this problem in the so-called 'TE-MA' boot. instep is a concern of skiers and manufacturers "The faulty effects of the low heel and out­ alike. Many new and some improved designs side edging ;re removed by a wedge which is have resulted. built into the boot, so that the skier can edge The WEISS-BLAU VOLLENDA boot dispenses his ski sufficiently by only a slight outward with pressure. The, damage to the foot through la cing over outside edging is thus avoided, and it is en tire­ also easier for the skier to change his position ly and from an outward lean in one direction back to instead the perpendicular or to an outward lean in the there is opposite direction. This fact makes a big dif­ a snow­ ference t.o ski technique; ski-ing is made easier proof and the strain is taken off the knee ligaments. fasten­ "The strap pulling downwards is replaced by ing at a double flap and lacing arrangement, so that the there is an upward pull, which is far more back. adapted to the human foot. Full freedom of T his practi­ cal arrangement removes pressure from the instep but, if the boots are done up very tightly, there is an uncomfortable pressure on the outside ankle bones. Slight alterations in design would make the VOLLENDA a superior and comfort­ able ski boot. As it is, many skiers find this model comfortable, and it gives an excellent feeling of control and, very important, the heel is held firmly. Many European sport now buckle or lace on the side rather than in the centre and the Murr and Lucas ALPKING ski boot follows this trend. The snow-proof lacing is easily and quickly done up even under conditions when ordinary lacing is most difficult and an­ noying. The ALPKING lace is secured at the Alpking Ski Boot bottom; to fasten the boot it is merely neces­ sary to loop the lace over the hooks, pull it movement is thereby left to the muscles and tight, and wind it around the special securing­ ligaments ,at the front of the foot, and the button at the top. The lacing cannot stretch, whole foot is able to work in an absolutely come loose, or knot. This side fastening elimi­ natural manner." nates pressure on the instep and the back of the While the Te-Ma design has interested me boot is designed to hold the heel firmly and for some time, I have not yet been able to test a prevent it moving inside. The well-made pair and, in fact, I have seen only one pair. ALPKING ski boots are rather lighter than most 94 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937

Central European models and they should be that is made by a firm specializing in ski-wear' useful for touring. Fuzzy materials that gather snow, lint, and As a whole, ski boots do not stand up very ski wax are gradually disappearing from the well under the strain of ski-ing with strong market as skiers become more discerning. diagonal pull bindings. After comparatively Blanket cloth, generally speaking, is unsuit­ short use, the soles of most boots become soft able for ski-ing. With one exception. . The and buckle under the arch of the foot. This HUDSON'S BAY POINT BLANKET GARMENTS makes the boot useless. In my own experience, are most sa tisfactory when very warm clothing is WIESS-BLAU TEMPO boots have stood up much required. For extreme cold, a GRENFELL better than others I have used. The TEMPO CLOTH parka with HUDSON'S BAY POINT BLAN­ model has a straight-through sole that does not KET lining would seem ideal. Race officials bJ'ckle and yet they are not so stiff that the please note. boot is uncomfortable. Much of the pressure GRENFELL CLOTH pioneered the way and on the instep is prevented by a special sponge­ there are now many similar materials. It is rubber lined tongue and the boot can be laced most difficult for an individual to determine the comparative merits of these fabrics and, for simplicity, I have therefore chos~n to use the name of the original material (GRENFELL CLOTH) in the generic sense to include other Wiess-Blau Tempo similar fabrics. Trousers. - Long trousers seem to be again coming into favour. They are cer­ tainly more practical and comfortable than plus fours. The new close fitting "stream­ lined" designs are smart looking. Closely­ tightly without discomfort. When using dia­ woven worsteds, smooth serges, hard twists, gonal pull, many skiers now wear the KANDA­ and gaberdines are the materials for ski HAR heel attachments higher than formerly and trousers. These cloths will not gather snow, the TEMPO boot has a special leather ridge to saturate easily, or wear rapidly. While many hold the binding above the groove on the heel. skiers wear GRENFELL CLOTH with satisfaction. In addition, the heel is reinforced with leather. I favour the above materials. Zipper pockets I have found this special ridge and reinforce­ and zipper closing are especially recommended ment satisfactory. The raised heel attachment for ski trousers. While most manufacturers gives a greater feeling of control and does not have the zipper running up, to close the pocket, strain the boots as much. On the other hand, it seems preferable to reverse ' this and have it is probably more dangerous. Except that I the zipper running down as it is more difficult do not like the sole protectors as much as the to pull the zipper up than down and also one IDEAL model fitted to other WEISS-BLAU ski can close the pocke t quickly and wi thou t trou ble. boots, the TEMPO model is excellent. Jacket.- GRENFELL CLOTH is the popular There is a great demand for a proper ski boot material for ski jackets and parkas. It is for children. This boot should be of correct light, windproof, water repellant, smart look­ design and stand up satisfactorily while selling ing, and does not gather snow. In addi­ a t a fairly low price. Except for expensive tion, one can fold a GRENFELL jacket and imported boots, children's boots of even reason­ carry it easily either in a pocket or on the ably good design are not obtainable and it is belt. The materials recommended for trou­ hoped that some Canadian manufacturer will sers are also suitable for jackets. While hip­ realize his opportunity for present and future length jackets are popular, a longer garment business. is perhaps more practical, and many skiers wear a parka on most occasions. There is Clothing really no substitute for a parka hood in cold and windy weather. One problem of the short Until a comparatively short time ago, ski jacket is the gap that develops between trou­ clothing was a simple matter: one merely hunt­ sers and jacket. Flat metal hooks sewn to the ed out the oldest available clothing and the jacket and slipped under the belt or suitable matter was settled. Today expert and novice eyes will keep the jacket in place. realize the importance of clothing that is de­ While it is difficult to compile a complete signed for ski-ing. There is a freedom-with list, the following materials are all somewhat smartness-and a warmth-wi thou t weigh t­ similar to GRENFELL CLOTH: BURTON'S ADI­ to specially designed ski clothing that is other­ RONDACK POPLIN, DEACON POPLIN, FAIRWAY wise unobtainable. Designers and manufac­ STORM TWILL, FAIRWAY ALL WEATHER CLOTH, turers must work closely together however be­ UKON CLOTH, ALASKA CLOTH. ca use many good designs have been spoiled by -European materials of the GRENFELL CLOTH manufacturers who fail to appreciate the type are usually disappointing and the good special requirements of the skier. It is there­ English fabrics are hard to beat. Mr. F . H. fore recommended tha t you buy ski clothing Deacon informs me that Deacon Sportwear has PRACTICAL SKI WEAR

on ST.YLE The new colorful array of Deacon Ski Wear awaits you at good Department Stores, and Men's and Ladies' Specialty Shops. Especially interesting are the clever 1938 models styled by Lanz of Salzburg. Deacon Ski Wear is made in four fabrics: Deacon Poplin, Gatineau Gabardine, Hastings Melton, or the famous Grenfell Cloth ... designed by Sir Wilfred Grenfell for use in Labrador ... light as silk, for action ... strong and durable. .. immune to sleet, snow and wind.

No. 998. Men's GRENFELL Ski Parka. When not in use, hood may be concealed in collar giving trim appearance. No. 928. Same as above, with I'ruck­ sack" zipper pouch in back-sus­ penders support. No. 976X. Men's GRENFELL or Gabardine Streamlined Slacks, plaited front, zipper cuB I warmly lined with "Kasha" flannel. No. 926. Women's GRENFELL Jacket, the "Poli", wide puffed sleeves, with Princess fitted lines, and hinge sleeves. No. 97SX. Women's GRENFELL Ski Slacks, streamlined and warmly lined. Zipper side opening.

Style No. 901-Men's I 'Austrian" style ski jacket, wind flap with con­ vertible collar, large inside pocket, concealed outside zipper pocket, double thickness Over shoulders,equippedfor detachable hutton-on hood. Style No. 976-Men's GRENFELL full flounce ski slacks, warmly lined with "Kasha" flannel, well cut and tailored. Men's and Ladies' GRENFELL Skz Style No. 7S7- Ladies' "Canadian" style ski jacket, zipper closing and Caps- Light weight, comfy; wind­ zipper pocket, hinge sleeve, tailored and smart, equipped for detachable proof protection without the heavy button-on hood. weight and bulk of other styles. Ear protectors may be worn up or down.

Men's and Ladies' GRENFELL Ski Mitts-Warmth and comfort are assured in these GRENFELL mitts, designed to be worn as pull-overs, over a woolIe.n mitt or glove. Snow­ proof, windproof, can be readily dried when wet. 96 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 made · arrangements to rel?roduce the famous casions-un til LANz OF SALZBURG desIgns in GRENFELL one exammes CLOTH, combining latest Austrian designs with the lacing at fine English fabrics. Herr Lanz has produced the sides. By many attractive and practical garments and his removing this colourful ski clothing is world-famous. Mr. lacing, the size Deacon, incidentally, has studied the Canadian of the ruck­ requirements of skiers and DEACON SPORT­ sack is in­ WEAR ski clothing is as practical as it is smart. creased by a Three or four years ago I was given the full length 3 Y2 official TROCKENWOLLE sweater of the Schwa­ inch gusset bischer Schneelaufbund and since that time I on each side. have worn it considerably throughout the The increased year. TROCKENWOLLE, which means Dry Wool, capacity is a very descriptive name because thi~ special makes it large impregnated wool sheds rain and water readily. enough for During the past few years, my S.S.B. sweater any expedi- ABC R ucksack, showing outside pocket has been washed a number of times and, rather tion. This surprisingly, the water-shedding properties of ABC rucksack is the usual BERGANS type that the TROCKENWOLLE do not seem to be at all has been so popular and, in addi tion to the use­ effected. TROCKENWOLLE is now sold ~n Canada ful expansion, there are a number of other in­ by the W. W. Wool Company as TROCKEN­ teresting refinements: the large outside pocket WOOL. The manufacturers state that TROCKEN­ has a zipper closing for which a padlock is WOOL, which is made of Australian and New supplied; there is a waterproof pocket with Zealand wools, is unshrinkable, colour-fast, and zipper closing inside the flap; three pairs of mothproof as well as water-repellant. Snow blanket straps are supplied; and the shoulder does not readily adhere to this special wool and, straps are held in place by a new strap-device in any case, melting snow will not saturate a which prevents slipping. This ABC rucksack TROCKEN-WOOL garment. Skiers will find this is a great credit to Swedish workmanship with a particular advantage. Last season I also first-class materials. wore TROCKEN-WOOL stockings and mitts with Two rucksacks are of particular interest: the complete satisfaction and I highly recommend ALPINA, made in Switzerland by A. ATTEN­ this special wool for all knitted ski and sport HOFER and the TAUERN, made in Germany by clothing. HANS DEUTER RUCKSACKFABRI~. On meeting The manufacturers of TROCKEN-WOOL have Herr Attenhofer, who was here with the S.A.S. now produced PEDILANA which is a special wool Ski Team last season, I loohd about hope­ designed to absorb perspiration. For foot com­ fully-but no ALPINA rucksack; on meeting Mr. fort, the perfect combination would seem to be Fritz Wiessner, who was a member of the 1932 fine PEDILANA socks worn under TROCKEN­ German-American Nanga Parbat Expedition, WOOL. PEDILANA wool will absorb the perspi­ I inquired hopefully-bu t no TA UERN rucksack. ration while TROCKEN-WOOL keeps away any In order to examine both, it was necessary to moisture that gets into the boot. This would order one of each and, surprisingly, the design seem the only way to ensure dry feet because is identicall As the ALPINA name is applied to even if boots are waterproof, perspiration soon a number of other articles, for simplicity I pro­ makes the feet damp. PEDILANA mitts should pose to call this design by the TAUERN name also be useful. but it must be remembered that I refer to both The W. W. Wool Company has published a the ATTENHOFER ALPINA and the HANS DEu- large number of leaflets giving full instructions TERTAUERN for knitting attractive sport clothing from their rucksacks. various wools and, incidentally, TROCKEN­ Most good WOOL and PEDILANA do not differ in appear­ rucksacks ance from other high grade wools. closely f 01- lowtheBER­ GANS design Rucksacks tha thas been so very pop­ Most of us have wished for a larger rucksack ular and suc­ just as many times as we would have preferred cessful all a smaller one. When there is a large amount over the to be carried, the rucksack is never big enough: world. These when one takes only lunch and an extra sweater, rucksacks it always seems too large. The No. 303 ABC­ havetubular FACTORIES rucksack is a handy medium size me tal frames (17 inch frame) not too large for short trips, but designed to does not seem capacious enough for many oc- ABC Rucksack distribute CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 97

the weight evenly and comfortably over ence with the skier's movements and balance. the shoulders, back, and hips. BERGANS (2) Raising and bringing the centre of gravi­ rucksacks are certainly much better than any ty closer to the body greatly increases the un­ frameless packsack or knapsack and it is claim- desirable centrifugal force which tends to throw . ed that the TAUERN one off balance. design is equally super­ (3) Because of the design and as the inside ior to the BERGANS. capacity can be increased or decreased some­ As shown, theTAUERN what by altering the tension of the frame, model is cut so that the small loads can more comfortably and conven­ ~ sides are parallel when iently be carried in a rather large bag. ~ the bag is packed. This Further use may disclose additional advan­ raises and brings the tages and, perhaps, some unthought of disad­ centre of gravity closer vantages of the TAUERN model. As mentioned to the back, thereby above, the design of both the ATTENHOFER correcting the tendency ALPINA and the HANS DEUTER TAUERN is to strain far forward identical and, so far as I can determine, the when carrying a heavy workmanship and materials are equally first­ load. In addition, the class. In putting the rucksack on and in tak­ bottom is cut obliquely ing it off, the carabine hook on the right shoulder E: upwards which keeps strap will be found useful and, incidentally, ~ small loads higher and the side pockets are spacious enough to put in closer to the back. One them easily a Thermos bottle or anything like great disadvantage of that. In design, materials, and execution, the BERGANS shape is the ALPINA and TAUERN are superior rucksacks. that small heavy loads tend to hang pear-like below the frilme and, acting like a pendulum, Miscellaneous make ski-ing difficult. In keeping with the im­ proved design of the bag itself, the TAUERN mo­ Our old friend Erkki Penttila, who is now del has a frame differen t from the BERGANS type. back in Finland, has written to me recommend­ A triangular reed or willow frame is builtin to the ing equipment for cross-country racing. A most rucksack and the inside of the triangle is lined experienced cross-country man, he has care­ with vulcanized fibre to stiffen the frame some­ fully studied the equipment requirements for what and to keep hard objects from sticking this type of competition, and his suggestions into the back-which seems to be one of the should therefore prove helpful. main occupations of tinned goods. In various places, the triangular frame is padded with horsehair. The rucksack can either be used in this way with the frame against the back or the web straps can be adjusted to any required ten­ sion so that there is ample circulation of air Ibetween the rucksack and the back. Unlike the metal frame, this light-weight construction is unbreakable, flexible, and easily adjusted to fit different persons perfectly. To . a skier, the main advantages of the TAUERN construction are: Skis.-For preference, birch skis made from (1) The flexible frame bends with the body properly cut billets a~ shown in the accompany­ in such a way that there is much less interfer- ingdiagram. In this connection, the J. Uusituvan "CANADA'S PIONEER SKI SHOP" Importers of Finest Norwegian Equipment Complete Range of Palmer Ski Boots Gresvig Kandahar, Unitas and Gresshoppa Harness , Snow Gaiters Steel Edges Skis and Accessories COMPLETE STOCK OF Salesmen and Mechanics who know the Galne SKI TOGS for Ladies and Gentlemen 40 years Experience- Modern EquipDlent GRENFELL-ALASKA, ALPINE CLOTHS Our Motto: QUALITY AND SERVICE AT LOWEST PRICE Special Ski Slacks and Knickers

ARLINGTON CYCLE & SPORTS, Limited Telephones: LA 6774-6776 1194 UNIVERSITY STREET, MONT.REAL 98 CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK; 1937

Suksipaja ski factQry Qf Finland writes: "By attachments fQr cross-country racing and sawing the birch in a special manner for skis, tQuring. With this I do. not agree as I believe instead Qf making skis Qut Qf planks, the hard that non-competitQrs who. are ski-ing fQr plea­ Quter layers Qf the tree trunk are utilized for sure and recreatiQn also. need the impQrtant running surfaces Qf the skis; moreover this prQ­ heel cQntrQI Qffered by modern ski bindings. cess assures a natural curve and prevents the I t depends, Qf CQurse, on the type Qf tQuring ski frQm warping. When the sawn timber is because heel-cQntrQl is Qf no. great advantage dried, the hard Quter layers stretch less than the fQr running Qn the level while it is practically softer inner Qnes, giving a natural curve which essential fQr difficult bush and downhill run­ hQlds well." Mr. Penttila writes further: "We nmg. have the gQQd material for birch skis in Finland Boots.-Racing bQQts shQuld be light but because the higher in the nQrth it grQWS, the still very strQng. harder it is." Sticks.-TQnkin cane with leather handle Bindings. -VOITTO and ROTTEFELLA are and grip. To my mind, snQW discs are used the best fQr crQss-country racing. The by most gOQd skiers. V OITTO binding is made in Finland and is In closing, Mr. Penttila writes: "I am-SQrry, less expensive than the similar NQrwegian I have nQt time to. write enQugh Qf this idea in ROTTEFELLA. Neither binding is supplied English," but I hQpe to. again hear frQm him in time fQr the next Equipment Section and he may have important details of new Finnish equip­ ment. Week-end firemen being what they are, a sleeping bag is practically essential to prevent freezing to. death when yQU sleep Qvernight in a ski hut. With this in mind, I purchased an inexpensive sleeping bag a few years ago. but it Rotte/ella_Binding has never been cQmpletely satisfactQry because nQt Qnly is it exceedingly bulky and heavy, but with heel attachments. He recQmmends also the cold air invariably gallQPs dQwn my heel attachments fQr dQwnhill, slalQm, and back and my feet have the annoying habit Qf jumping, but tQe bindings without heel wandering into. the CQld CQrners from time to

The Ski Speci-alists

Write for Our Illustrated Catalogue Featuring the latest in Domestic and Imported

SKIS BINDINGS BOOTS POLES ALPKING SKI BOOTS WAXES CLOTHING By MURR and LUCAS ACCESSORIES ALPKING-the boots of Kings-designed to prevent cramping the feet and yet give perfect AUTO SKI RACKS control. Comfortable, Smart, Waterproof, Rug­ SKI -IN G LITERATURE ged. Wear the ALPKING for real ski comFort LARWAY, TEMPLE & COOPER, LIMITED SPECIALIZING IN SKIS, GUNS and FISHING TACKLE 45 ADELAIDE STREET EAST TORONTO, CANADA CANADIAN SKI YEAR BOOK, 1937 99 time. Just as I had designed a sleeping bag actual tip of the ski is not raised more than half for my own use, Mr. Soren Berner brings to my an inch more than normal so as not to spoil the attention the Swedish ABC-FACTORIES No. carefully calculated curve of the upturn. The 1121 eiderdown sleeping bag that seems to fill great advantage of this press is that th~skis my requirements. This bag weighs only three are held independen tly and, as a result, one ski does not become flat while the bend in the other increases. Furthermore, unless the bil­ let warps-which is most unlikely-the skis will not pull out of shape. When the wood has dried out somewhat, the whole ski should be thoroughly cleaned with gasoline and all wax (including base wax) removed with a suitable solvent. This will leave the running surface bare and a ski dressing must be applied im­ pounds and it packs away into a small bag only media tely to again seal the wood, because it is twenty-five inches long and about eight inches changes in moisture content that cause warping in diameter. Possibly one cannot sleep out in and twisting. There are many suitable pre­ the snow with this ABC bag-although Mr. parations on the market. While the VON SKI Berner assures me that it is very warm indeed­ SHOP VIKING SKI DRESSING seems to be the but I am sure that it is quite warm enough for best, OESTBYE MIXOL, DUNZINGER RAw-TAR, sleeping inside even if the fires do go out and, and SCHUSTER RApID-TEFR are also recom­ f~rthermore, one can easily and conveniently mended. Many authorities claim that linseed carrv such a small bundle on the rucksack. oil stiffens the wood fibres and I am inclined to Now a few notes on the summer storing of think that pine tar preparations are better. A ski equipment. . mixture of ordinary pine tar and turpentine is Skis.- Spring ski-ing means klister so first very satisfactory. After applying the dressing scrape off the accumulated grass, wool, feathers, thickly to the entire surface of the skis, they and wax. A:;; the wood will have soaked up should again be bound in the press. Two or cOrlsiderables .now water, the skis should then three coats should be applied during the sum­ be put in a press and allowed to dry out for a mer and, between coats, the residue left by the few weeks. Rather than buy one of the previous coat entirely removed with turpentine. fancy ski presses on the market, you can To prevent rusting, all metal parts of bind­ make your own. Select a well-seasoned and ings, edges, ski sticks, etc., should be heavily perfectly straight white pine billet (2 ins. x 4 coated with vaseline. A coating of some leath­ ins. x 7 ft.) at your local lumber yard and er preservative will keep boots, binding straps, give this billet two coats of stain varnish and ski stick leather in good condition. or paint. Place one ski on each side of In preparation for the winter, skis should be the fmished billet and bind in place with heavy well cleaned with turpentine and allowed to dry cord, straps, or clamps. To increase the thoroughly. The ends should then be varnished arch in the skis, place a small block under each to prevent snow-water soaking into the wood toe iron; to decrease the bend, bind the ski flat and, after sanding down the running surface to the pine billet. In this way, the arch of lightly, a base wax should be applied. This each ski can be regulated independently. The will preserve and waterproof the wood as well upturn of the ski can be preserved by propping as presenting a suitable surface for the applica­ up the ski tip with a small stick of wood. A tion of climbing-and-running waxes. A-21, slight cut on the underside of the ski tip and AUSTRO-LACK, or some similar preparation is on the billet will prevent the prop from slipping. then applied to the remainder of the ski to In preserving the upturn, make certain that the waterproof and preserve the finish.

EASIER UPHILL FASTER DOWNHILL With WONDER WAX For frozen corn snow or wet snow when the temperature is above freezing, use WONDER KLISTER; for ALL other snow conditions, use WONDER RED WAX Wonder Base Wax *Wonder Red Wax *Wonder Klister *Wonder Dubbin *Wonder Glacier Cream CARNALL & WIESSNER A copy of "WHY WAX", describing the theory and practice of modern ski MANUFACTURING CHEMISTS waxing, wilJ be sent on request. 25 KING STREET WEST, TORONTO, 2, ONTARIO