I am disappointed in these skins. Even with the cleaning solution they worked fair the first year and poorly ever since. I have tried to be optimistic, however the glue is not great . I have reached out in the past and someone tried to say the conditions I skied in were too cold?????
I am wondering if this is really the best you could do. I have never had a company not stand by their equipment. I am looking for a new brand this year. Used to be you could get 3-4 seasons out of skins with good care. Wonder if anyone would care to respond.
thanks
Contour Hybrid Mix Skins
The Hybrid glue system from Contour solves the stickiest skin problem. That is designing a glue strong enough to adhere to the backing but not so strong that you can’t separate a skin from itself. Contour achieved this goal by using multiple layers of glue. An especially sticky formula rests against the skin which is covered in another layer of less tacky glue that keeps the interface manageable. The resulting Hybrid glue system is easy to use and reliable. It’s also easy to maintain, since you can simply wash the skin with detergent to refresh the stickiness. Attached to the fancy adhesives is a mix of fibers that also blend multiple goals: grip, glide, and durability. This is achieved with Contour’s signature mohair woven with some rugged nylon. The Hybrid Mix skins offer the benefits of newer glue formulas with the reliability of traditional fare.
- Hybrid glue technology offers good adhesion even in low temperatures.
- Glue is easy to pull apart and can be washed to refresh the tack.
- 65% mohair / 35% nylon blend is a good all-around fiber formula.
- Attached adjustable tail clips fit securely on just about any ski out there.
- A wire bail tip attachment keeps things simple and reliable.
- Two included cleaning wipes help refresh the adhesive side.
- Also includes a carry bag and a trimmer for customizing the side cut.
- Backing foil has a center strip for mess-free trimming.
* Please note the kits labeled Universal (without a length range) come without the tips attached so you can cut them to any length.
| Skin Size | Tip Bracket Width |
| 115mm | 85mm |
| 135mm | 95mm |
Update 2020/21: Contour changed out the tips to be sleek metal buckles that are permanently riveted on (previously they used Vario tip hardware with swappable buckles). They also changed to an offset-style cutter which doesn't require repositioning the skin between cuts like the previous letter opener.
| Specifications | |
| Weight per skin (with backing) | 312g [115mm x 169-176] |
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Questions & Reviews
9/27/2024
Reply to this comment:
I've used these skins for the past 3 seasons with my 191cm WNDR Alpine vital 100s - I bought the 115mm x 185-195cm and cut to size.
The hybrid glue has been great. Extremely easy to stick on and rip off. Also easy to rip apart when folding together. No issues with sticking failures when doing multiple laps. None of the fuss that was typical with traditional glue. These skins come with a couple single use cleaning wipes, but I haven't needed to use them after probably 50+ days. Glide/grip is plenty. The offset cutting tool provided is also great. Tip and tail hardware is still in good condition, and I expect them to last. They pack reasonably well for the large length I have, but not as well as something like the Pomoca free pro 2.0.
The skins come with some zoned stickers on the glue side to help with trimming - seems like a nice idea, but I didn't find it any more helpful.
Bottom line - get these if you want a no-nonsense pair of touring skins that will last you a long time and work well in all categories.
The hybrid glue has been great. Extremely easy to stick on and rip off. Also easy to rip apart when folding together. No issues with sticking failures when doing multiple laps. None of the fuss that was typical with traditional glue. These skins come with a couple single use cleaning wipes, but I haven't needed to use them after probably 50+ days. Glide/grip is plenty. The offset cutting tool provided is also great. Tip and tail hardware is still in good condition, and I expect them to last. They pack reasonably well for the large length I have, but not as well as something like the Pomoca free pro 2.0.
The skins come with some zoned stickers on the glue side to help with trimming - seems like a nice idea, but I didn't find it any more helpful.
Bottom line - get these if you want a no-nonsense pair of touring skins that will last you a long time and work well in all categories.
Comment on this review:
2/21/2024
What size skins for a pair of Fischer Hannibal, 169cm length and 126-95-113 dimensions?
2/21/2024
Betty,
I'd go with the 115mm x 169-176
I'd go with the 115mm x 169-176
Answer this question:
1/11/2024
Hi! Which size should I get for black crows atris birdies? 169cm 135-107-124
Is the 115cm too narrow?
Is the 115cm too narrow?
1/11/2024
In the back they seem to fit fine, the tail only widens in the end, but unsure of the front
1/11/2024
Hi Kira, that is plenty of coverage in my opinion. You don't get any traction from rockered tips. They will fold in half nicely, without one side overhanging the other in width.
Answer this question:
12/11/2023
I have Armada Locators, 170cm length and 130-104-121. Right between sizes for length - should I go with the 35mm 169-177 range? thanks!
12/11/2023
Hi Molly! I would suggest the 169-177cm size for this particular skin. Always nice to have a little extra tail to grab when ripping skins. Thanks!
Answer this question:
11/23/2023
I have a pair of Black Diamond Impulse - 165 cm 135-104-123mm. Looking at the Contour Hybrid Mix skins but not sure of the size - 115 mm or 135 mm. I am reading different accounts of matching skins to skis when the size is by mm. What would you suggest? Thank you.
11/23/2023
Hi Noel, I would suggest the 115s so you have less overhang when folding the skins glue to glue. While not achieving the max possible grip of the 135s, it is sufficient for climbing any skin track that you should be following.
Answer this question:
11/8/2023
Does hybrid glue have an approximate lifespan when properly maintained? I bought a pair of these skins a couple years ago and have toured probably around 100 times on them. I've dried them out after every tour and have cleaned them when needed with the specific Contour cleaner. But the glue on the edges of the skin (the outside 1-2cm) is no longer sticky, even after cleaning. The glue in the center is like new and has a slight sheen but the non-sticky edges have a matte/dull look. Is this a common thing?
11/13/2023
Hi Jon,
Generally, we would expect hybrid glue to last a long time, potentially longer than normal glue due to the cleaning process which helps dealing with dirt and debris that can cause failure in normal glue. That said, no one has had enough experience with it yet (only the last few years) to have long-term data.
Generally, we would expect hybrid glue to last a long time, potentially longer than normal glue due to the cleaning process which helps dealing with dirt and debris that can cause failure in normal glue. That said, no one has had enough experience with it yet (only the last few years) to have long-term data.
11/30/2023
I was a fan of those skins till now. great glide, good climbing, easy pulling them apart. I was recommending them to others. However, no i am doubting the longevity. I am running into the same issue as described above, that even after cleaning, the skins do not stick at all anymore. I have 2 pairs for 2 different skis. Bought within a year of each other (2021 and 2022). One pair is unusable, the other one is not far behind as it feels. both have about 60-80 days on them. leaves me with a bad taste and i am switching brands.
12/1/2023
I did send Contour an email to ask about it. They think it is wax residue since it looks like no other visible dirt can be seen. I did another clean with their liquid and a sponge (the 4th one). I used a dry sponge to "scrape" the surface. Now it seems to be sticky again. So I cancel my above statement.
12/1/2023
Thanks for the update, Andreas. Thoroughly scraping and brushing your skis after waxing is critical for any skin glue to work and endure.
Answer this question:
Love these hybrid skins. These have good glide and grip, are light, packable and don't absorb water. In this sense they are comparable to other nylon/mohair mix skins. The standout feature is the glue. I no longer feel like the hardest part of my uphill journey is pulling the skins off at the top.
Comment on this review:
4/17/2023
Hi there!
I'm unsure which size to buy for Völkl Rise Above 88 (130.6 - 88 - 111.4) at a length of 177 cm.
-) Size 169 - 176 cm should fit, but would it be better to choose 177 - 184 instead?
-) Width should be fine when choosing 115 mm instead of 135, isn't it?
I'm unsure which size to buy for Völkl Rise Above 88 (130.6 - 88 - 111.4) at a length of 177 cm.
-) Size 169 - 176 cm should fit, but would it be better to choose 177 - 184 instead?
-) Width should be fine when choosing 115 mm instead of 135, isn't it?
4/17/2023
Toni,
I'd go with the 177-184, you can always cut them shorter if needed. The 115 will work fine, you'll want to size them to the widest part of the tail.
I'd go with the 177-184, you can always cut them shorter if needed. The 115 will work fine, you'll want to size them to the widest part of the tail.
Answer this question:
4/1/2023
My skiis are 133/102/118 (and 164 long). Should I get skins 115 wide or 135 wide. I love my ontours cut for an older ski! Thanks!
4/1/2023
Hi Carol, we use the tail width to determine skin width, so the 115mm wide skins will work fine. There will be enough coverage underfoot and behind your heel, where most of the traction of the skin is.
Answer this question:
These skins are great. I switched over from BD Mohair Mix. I can't say I notice a big difference in their grip/glide but the glue is noticeably differnt(better).
The glue is MUCH less sticky. I can now easily rip skins with my boot still in the skis at the top of the climb. I also don't torture myself when separating skins from inside my pack between laps.
The downside is that the skins do require a little TLC with proprietary wipes to keep the glue sticky, but even when not maintained regularly they still stick to my skis well enough.
The glue is MUCH less sticky. I can now easily rip skins with my boot still in the skis at the top of the climb. I also don't torture myself when separating skins from inside my pack between laps.
The downside is that the skins do require a little TLC with proprietary wipes to keep the glue sticky, but even when not maintained regularly they still stick to my skis well enough.
Comment on this review:
3/13/2023
Which tip hardware do the universal 115mm skins come with currently? Is it the 85mm wide click-to-close-and-slide-the-red-tabs fitting or something else? ANd how long are they? I assume they would fit a 181 Voile Charger?
3/14/2023
Hi Gabrielle,
The hardware included is the 85mm bracket with a typical Contour click-to-close system. With your ski in particular I'd be hesitant to suggest the 115mm width due to inadequate base coverage throughout the tails. Although more trimming would be required, I'd suggest going with the 135mm width. Thanks!
The hardware included is the 85mm bracket with a typical Contour click-to-close system. With your ski in particular I'd be hesitant to suggest the 115mm width due to inadequate base coverage throughout the tails. Although more trimming would be required, I'd suggest going with the 135mm width. Thanks!
3/14/2023
Thanks for your response about the buckle. As to whether 115 is wide enough on my Chargers, I am have been running 110m BD Glidelite Mix skins since I first got them and find them to be more than adequate in width. If the uptrack is so steep that I cannot get up it on the 110mm x 100cm contact patch underfoot, I surely don't want to be following that skintrack for a lot of other reasons. ;-)
Straight skins have a lot of advantages over "wider-at-the-ends" skins, especially with lighter mohair mix skins. They curl back less thereby getting less snow under the front edge and they can be folded in from the ends to the middle which makes skin handling much easier. 115mm skins will still need to be trimmed about 5-7mm underfoot to fit the waist of my Chargers.
Straight skins have a lot of advantages over "wider-at-the-ends" skins, especially with lighter mohair mix skins. They curl back less thereby getting less snow under the front edge and they can be folded in from the ends to the middle which makes skin handling much easier. 115mm skins will still need to be trimmed about 5-7mm underfoot to fit the waist of my Chargers.
Answer this question:
3/13/2023
Hi Skimo universe. I have a pair of Scott Superguide 178 cm skis. Width is 134/104/122. What size of these skins would work best? Thanks!
3/13/2023
Hi Patrick,
I would suggest going with the 135mm x 177-184cm. The next size down (169-177cm) would work as well however the tail attachment will be nearing the end of the strap, making it more difficult to rip skins from the tails. Thanks!
I would suggest going with the 135mm x 177-184cm. The next size down (169-177cm) would work as well however the tail attachment will be nearing the end of the strap, making it more difficult to rip skins from the tails. Thanks!
Answer this question:
3/3/2023
I have a G3 synapse ski 175cm with 124-92-108. What is the best size of Contour hybrid mix skins would you recommend?
3/4/2023
Hi Andrea, I'd go with the 115 x 169-176. If you gain comfort in knowing every square mm is covered, the 135s would also work.
Answer this question:
2/28/2023
Help! Anyone with life experience of using the Contour Hybrid at 0°F or below on "rock skies"?
"Rock skies" are my term for the old ones which are horribly scratched and you continue to use them in early winter when there is not yet any old snow carpet pad or which you use in late spring jumping from last snow patch to last snow patch and descending a forest path which is more brown than white, while you reserve your new skies for the good conditions.
After 8 years of usage and I don't know 100 or 200 backcountry days, my glorious Movement skis are now rock skies. The sliding surfaces are somewhere between washboard and body file. One inch of steel edge of one ski has fully broken off.
Of course I would be purchasing the Hybrids for my new shiny skies with perfect sliding surfaces. I expect them to stick to this nice surface at 0°F and below, if I clean off dirt from time to time and keep an eye on dry conditions between adhesion layer and ski when applying the skins. But will they still work in 8 years when my currently shiny skies become the next rock skies? My current Colltex hot glue type skins are 8 years old as the skies are. They lost many hairs on the edges and I can't climb as steep anymore as I initially could, especially on hard, old snow. The glue side looks quite ugly, but they still stick to my rock skies and don't come off. "Transfer tape" - what is this?
So, will the Hybrids work under ugly conditions? 0°F or below, rock ski surface? Who has experience?
"Rock skies" are my term for the old ones which are horribly scratched and you continue to use them in early winter when there is not yet any old snow carpet pad or which you use in late spring jumping from last snow patch to last snow patch and descending a forest path which is more brown than white, while you reserve your new skies for the good conditions.
After 8 years of usage and I don't know 100 or 200 backcountry days, my glorious Movement skis are now rock skies. The sliding surfaces are somewhere between washboard and body file. One inch of steel edge of one ski has fully broken off.
Of course I would be purchasing the Hybrids for my new shiny skies with perfect sliding surfaces. I expect them to stick to this nice surface at 0°F and below, if I clean off dirt from time to time and keep an eye on dry conditions between adhesion layer and ski when applying the skins. But will they still work in 8 years when my currently shiny skies become the next rock skies? My current Colltex hot glue type skins are 8 years old as the skies are. They lost many hairs on the edges and I can't climb as steep anymore as I initially could, especially on hard, old snow. The glue side looks quite ugly, but they still stick to my rock skies and don't come off. "Transfer tape" - what is this?
So, will the Hybrids work under ugly conditions? 0°F or below, rock ski surface? Who has experience?
2/28/2023
Hi Peter,
Thanks for writing in! I suppose it's difficult to say whether this skin will last that long since it hasn't been around for that amount of time! Regardless, with this unique glue and the ability to efficiently clean them, they should get the edge in terms of long-term durability and longevity. Personally, these are one of my favorite skins and a certain set is approaching the 150-day mark with little trouble. The cleaning solution not only cleans but also rejuvenates. They will work in sub-zero temps, regardless of the ski bases, but it is important to note they are more sensitive to the conditions in general when compared to those with traditional glue. At the end of the day, this just means you need to stay up on your skincare management i.e. keeping snow off the bases, storing skins in your jacket on the descent, hanging them to dry, etc. If done well you'll end up with a long-term easy-to-manage skin!
Transfer tape is simply used to efficiently reglue skins.
Thanks!
Thanks for writing in! I suppose it's difficult to say whether this skin will last that long since it hasn't been around for that amount of time! Regardless, with this unique glue and the ability to efficiently clean them, they should get the edge in terms of long-term durability and longevity. Personally, these are one of my favorite skins and a certain set is approaching the 150-day mark with little trouble. The cleaning solution not only cleans but also rejuvenates. They will work in sub-zero temps, regardless of the ski bases, but it is important to note they are more sensitive to the conditions in general when compared to those with traditional glue. At the end of the day, this just means you need to stay up on your skincare management i.e. keeping snow off the bases, storing skins in your jacket on the descent, hanging them to dry, etc. If done well you'll end up with a long-term easy-to-manage skin!
Transfer tape is simply used to efficiently reglue skins.
Thanks!
3/1/2023
How about using them on heavily scratched "rock skies"? Any experience?
Answer this question:
2/25/2023
Wondering if you think I could make a 115 width skin fit a ski that measures 106 underfoot, 128 at the tail . . . too much exposure at the tail?
Thanks!
Thanks!
2/25/2023
Hi Jeremy,
The 115mm would be too narrow throughout a majority of the ski and create issues regarding grip. I would suggest jumping up to the 135mm width. Thanks!
The 115mm would be too narrow throughout a majority of the ski and create issues regarding grip. I would suggest jumping up to the 135mm width. Thanks!
3/13/2023
Personally, I run straight skins on all my powder skis. I buy them just narrower than the waist. I recently upgraded from Voile Chargers (139-110-129) to HyperChargers (140-105-130) so I had to trim the waist of the 110mm BD GlideLite Mix skins a touch. The ends of the early-rise or full-rocker skis do very little to increase traction and just add unnecessary weight. (I'm not even a weight-weeny!)
Answer this question:
2/6/2023
Hi,
I've got 132-101-117 skis that are 185cm long. What's the best length for the skins ? 177-184 or 185-195?
Thanks
I've got 132-101-117 skis that are 185cm long. What's the best length for the skins ? 177-184 or 185-195?
Thanks
2/6/2023
Antoine,
Go with the longer option! That way, should they be too long, you can trim them to fit with a little effort.
Go with the longer option! That way, should they be too long, you can trim them to fit with a little effort.
2/7/2023
Hi Antoine, when you are on the border of sizes, it's nice to get the Universal length and dial it in how you prefer it.
Answer this question:
1/24/2023
I have a pair of these skins and the glue has detached in several places after about a year and half of use. Is there a warranty that would cover this? Do you know how to contact contour for this issue?
1/24/2023
Hi Jim, yes Contour has a great warranty. Shoot us your order number and we'll get it going for you!
2/13/2023
Hi, I had similar issues and can confirm that Contour will replace the skins under warranty. Very quick response time from Contour and overall great customer service.
Answer this question:
1/21/2023
I have the la sportiva lo-fis in a 178. Better to get the 169-176 or the 177-184?
And if Im looking for backcountry skiing with multiple runs per day - do I want the hybrid mix or the guide?
Thanks
And if Im looking for backcountry skiing with multiple runs per day - do I want the hybrid mix or the guide?
Thanks
1/21/2023
Hi Brian,
For your ski, you could get the 169-176 length as the tail strap will allow for additional length. Although the glue on the hybrid mix is not as resistant to the conditions presented during transitions as the guide mix, with proper skin care management such as keeping snow off the glue and storing them inside your jacket on the descents, they'll last all day. The guide mix does utilize a more "traditional" glue that is less likely to fail and more durable but is tackier and possibly more difficult to manage. Thanks!
For your ski, you could get the 169-176 length as the tail strap will allow for additional length. Although the glue on the hybrid mix is not as resistant to the conditions presented during transitions as the guide mix, with proper skin care management such as keeping snow off the glue and storing them inside your jacket on the descents, they'll last all day. The guide mix does utilize a more "traditional" glue that is less likely to fail and more durable but is tackier and possibly more difficult to manage. Thanks!
Answer this question:
1/8/2023
I have the Madshus Panorama M68 back-country touring skis and while they are waxless/fish scale, I need a bit more bite when doing anything other than rollers. Especially while I am pulling a gear sled - uphill/slopes. Is there a skin you would recommend for these 99tip/68/84tail sized skis? Thanks! M
1/9/2023
Matt,
These would work great! The hybrid glue can fail a bit quicker than traditional glue, so if you're doing lots of transitions most days, or skinning in loose snow often, you could check out the Pomoca Free Pro 2.0 or the Contour Guide Mix skins.
These would work great! The hybrid glue can fail a bit quicker than traditional glue, so if you're doing lots of transitions most days, or skinning in loose snow often, you could check out the Pomoca Free Pro 2.0 or the Contour Guide Mix skins.
Answer this question:
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