Kinetic Friction of Boardercross-snowboards

The purpose of this study was to analyze the kinetic friction of different combinations of snowboard base structures and waxes. On a linear tribometer in a cold lab 3 snowboards with 3 different base structures were first waxed with a training wax. Then the friction coefficient was assessed at 2 m/s, 5 m/s and 8 m/s. Subsequently the boards were prepared with a racing finish and the friction coefficient of the boards was measured again.The effects of base structure and wax on the kinetic friction on snow appear to be strongly interdependent. A wax that takes effect on one board at given conditions must not be working on a board with different base structure. In addition there is a strong influence of the sliding speed. Optimization of race equipment must not only consider the interdependency of base structure and wax but also the relevant competition speed.