Choose the roughening cork for preparing a waxable classic ski’s kick zone or maintaining a Zero ski’s designated grip area. Rex 6111 uses an abrasive surface to work on the base before the next treatment. To smooth grip wax after application, choose a separate synthetic smoothing cork.

The first decision comes before sanding: identify both the kick zone and the type of base. A Zero grip section, a waxable kick zone and a skin insert require different care. Keep this tool away from skin inserts and the ski’s glide zones.

Preparing a waxable kick zone

1. Mark the correct kick zone. If its length is unknown, establish it before roughening.
2. Remove old grip wax and clean with Wax Remover when needed. Let the surface dry completely.
3. Roughen the marked area according to the ski manufacturer’s instructions. Keep the abrasive within that area and use controlled strokes.
4. Wipe away sanding dust before applying wax.
5. Continue with the chosen grip-wax routine. Base Wax, for example, provides a foundation on a waxable classic ski when used as directed.

Zero skis need their own finishing routine

Follow the instructions for the particular Zero ski. Do not simply transfer a conventional grip-wax sequence to its special grip surface. The roughening cork handles surface preparation; it does not determine the complete treatment for the day’s snow.

Avoid extending the treatment too far

If the ski slips, check the kick zone, ski fit and grip treatment before sanding an ever larger area. Extending roughening into the glide zones can compromise glide.

Supplied as one roughening cork. For spreading an applied layer of grip wax evenly, choose the smoothing cork instead. This tool is unnecessary for a liquid glide-wax routine.