What is a structure (rilling) tool? These are manual tools that set patterns in the ski base. The pattern and depth of the tool can optimize (or hinder) the base structure on race day. Tools often roll but some are fixed and others still may have a gear to “cut” the structure into the ski base. Patterns (linear, broken, angled, cross) and depths vary from tool to tool.
When should I use a structure tool? Manual structure tools often give skis the best feeling during normal winter conditions (think not arctic cold) right through the warmest and wettest days. For example, IMD JNQ #2 saw conditions in the upper 40s with full sun on the course.
Do skate and classic skis get the same treatment? Not necessarily! Classic skis, generally, can be rilled both in front of and behind the kick zone. Applying manual structure in front of the kick zone can make the ski feel better in gliding and behind the kick zone helps with speed (ejecting water more quickly out the back of the ski). The nature of classic skis is a linear path down the trail, often in a set track, that sees more water melt. Skate skis traverse the trail in vectors often on new snow (or at least untracked snow). Applying too much hand structure to a skate ski in front of the binding can often make a ski feel heavy when gliding or especially climbing in v1. Applying manual structure to a skate ski often begins with light pressure and ends with heavy pressure on the tool as you move behind the binding.
How do I know what tool or pattern to use on race day? Test. You need to test your tools and understand when they work and why. See the prior blog post for the parallel glide test protocol. If you don’t have access to a set of matched test skis or when testing is impractical then you must know and understand the tools you have!
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