Ski and Snowboard Materials

Plastics are used by ski and snowboard manufacturers and resorts for a wide variety of applications. These plastics include:

Acrylic (PMMA): Acrylic is chosen for signage, trail signs, direction markers, and information boards due to its excellent optical clarity, high impact resistance, and weather durability.

Polyethylene (PE): Polyethylene is a durable and versatile plastic used in ski and snowboard bases that offers excellent gliding properties, durability, and resistance to impact and abrasion. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and Ultra-High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene (UHMW-PE) are commonly used for base materials. UHMW is also favored for snowplow blades due to its wear resistance, durability, and ability to tolerate freezing winter temperatures.

Nylon: Nylon is often used for ski and snowboard bindings and straps. It provides strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. Nylon is known for its toughness and ability to withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for winter sports equipment.

Polycarbonate (PC): Polycarbonate is used in ski and snowboard goggles and helmet visors due to its high impact resistance and optical clarity. It provides protection against impacts while maintaining good visibility.

Polypropylene (PP): Polypropylene sees use in various components of ski and snowboard equipment, such as bindings, boot shells, and protective gear. It offers a balance of flexibility, strength, and resistance to cold temperatures.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): TPU is commonly used in ski and snowboard boots and outer shells. It provides a combination of flexibility, durability, and resistance to cold temperatures, making it suitable for performance footwear.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): ABS's impact resistance, stiffness, and durability make it a good fit for sidewalls and the top sheets of skis and snowboards.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): As a weather-, moisture-, and UV-resistant plastic with excellent resistance to extreme temperatures, PVC is a great candidate for outdoor signage.

Materials for ski and snowboard applications fall under NAICS codes #339920 and 713920.

• [Acrylic Datasheet]
• [HDPE Datasheet]
• [Nylon Datasheet]
• [Renovo-MPC^™ Datasheet]
• [Polycarbonate Datasheet]
• [PVC Type 1 Datasheet]
• [UHMW Datasheet]