WITH SKIING IN MIDSEASON, COACH PFEIFER POINTS OUT PARTS OF YOUR EQUIPMENT THAT MAY NEED A QUICK FIX BEFORE TROUBLE SETS IN

Midseason is the time when things happen to equipment. Laces break, straps part in the middle, and edges break off at the slightest provocation. A quick check of all your equipment is in order.

First, check all ski edges. They are a frequent source of trouble. Probably several screws need tightening and chances are one or two will be missing.

Second, give the edges a real filing. You will be surprised how that will improve your control. File all edges lengthwise along the ski on both flat and narrow sides, striving for a square-cornered edge. Then file the narrow edge at right angles to the ski, drawing only toward the bottom of the ski.

Poles are a second source of midseason trouble. The devices which attach the ring to the bottom of the pole often wear through.

The ski bottom itself should be relacquered in order to cover bare spots and resist the moisture that attacks the laminations. Give the bottoms a rubdown with steel wool and apply several thin coats of lacquer.

Next, the bindings. Replace worn straps and any spring that is overstretched. Make sure that your cable guides and toe irons haven't worked loose. On safety bindings, make sure that dirt and rust have not locked the working parts.

Early spring is the time when your boots get spongy unless you renew the water repellent. Shoe polish applied overall and worked well into the seams is best. Ordinary boot grease, softens the leather too much. Check your lacings for water-resistance. Old, soggy lacings will wet the whole boot.

These few things will improve your chances 100% for trouble-free skiing the rest of the season.

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FRIEDL PFEIFER