A: There are times when riding that the skis might come in contact with obstacles other than snow... stumps, rocks, trees, asphalt, to name just a few. Sometimes the ski could become twisted after severe impact in a crash. Here are some simple fixes:

• Remove all hardware and put ski in hot water in bathtub or heat twisted area in front of a space heater (CAREFUL! NOT TOO CLOSE AS PLASTIC MELTS!) untill plastic becomes uncomfortable to the touch on palm of hand. The UHMW has a memory and plastic should return to original shape with a little bending or twisting in opposite direction. Let cool or put in cold water or snow while holding ski in desired original shape.
• Stainless steel brackets as well as runners can usually be straightened out with a hammer. Care should be taken not to beat directly on carbide inserts - these are tough, durable products but like anything - they have their limits.