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.
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Questions & Reviews
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.
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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!
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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.
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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?
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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!)
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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1/4/2023
The glue on my ~2 year old Countour Hybrid skins seems to have lost a lot of its tackiness, the skins are not sticking my skis very well anymore. I haven't seen where I can buy similar glue or get them reglued - any suggestions?
1/4/2023
Hi Colleen, the Hybrids don't typically need to be re-glued, just washed! Here is some cleaning spray to help.
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10/28/2022
Hi, I have Line Vision 118 , 183cm (152-118-138) skis. Do you think this Contour 135 mm skins will perform well or should I look for a wider skins like 145 G3 Alpinist glide.
10/29/2022
Hi Dima,
Thanks for reaching out! Generally, we recommend sizing skins based on the tail width of your skin. The tip of your ski does little to contribute to traction. Instead, wall to wall plush will just add friction. At 135mm, the Hybrid mix will leave 1.5mm of edge showing at the widest point of your tail, which will be just about perfect. Trimming your skins will handle the rest!
Thanks for reaching out! Generally, we recommend sizing skins based on the tail width of your skin. The tip of your ski does little to contribute to traction. Instead, wall to wall plush will just add friction. At 135mm, the Hybrid mix will leave 1.5mm of edge showing at the widest point of your tail, which will be just about perfect. Trimming your skins will handle the rest!
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10/27/2022
Best size for Atomic Backland 95s-169cm? I'm thinking 115 169-176, but wondering if I could get away with the 161-168 size. Ski measurements are 125-95-113.5
10/28/2022
Hi John,
I tested it for you. Contours skin sizing is only 7cm per size, but the straps will accommodate a good bit more then that. The 161-168 fits in the middle of the tail strap on the 169cm ski. Go for that one.
I tested it for you. Contours skin sizing is only 7cm per size, but the straps will accommodate a good bit more then that. The 161-168 fits in the middle of the tail strap on the 169cm ski. Go for that one.
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10/17/2022
What is the best way to store these skins when not out on a tour - glue to glue or using the contour backing sheet (this does not come with a new set of skins)?
Thanks
Thanks
10/17/2022
Hi That dude out west,
Best practice for the Contour Hybrid Mix skins is to store them glue to glue, in a cool dry place. Contour emphasis fully drying the skins before storage. If you have further skin questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Best practice for the Contour Hybrid Mix skins is to store them glue to glue, in a cool dry place. Contour emphasis fully drying the skins before storage. If you have further skin questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
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9/18/2022
Best choice for Icelantic Natural, 132/101/117, 185cm, so right at the length change? Thanks!
9/19/2022
Hey Devo, I would recommend going with 185cm length. They will fit great in the smallest setting.
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2/25/2022
Which would be the best to buy for Armada Trace 108's?
Measurements: 133 / 108 / 125.5 mm - 172cm
Measurements: 133 / 108 / 125.5 mm - 172cm
2/25/2022
Hey Amy, the 135mm x 169cm-177cm should work just fine!
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1/26/2022
Hello,
My Contour Hybrid skins become dirty, but I do not have the opportunity to buy a branded cleaning agent. Could you, please, tell me if any household or automotive chemicals can be used to clean the glue on these skins in case of contamination?
My Contour Hybrid skins become dirty, but I do not have the opportunity to buy a branded cleaning agent. Could you, please, tell me if any household or automotive chemicals can be used to clean the glue on these skins in case of contamination?
1/26/2022
Fedor,
Thanks for the question and your patience! We are waiting to hear back from Contour on their official suggestion. The Contour Hybrid Wipes are certainly the preferred method, we will update this as soon as we hear anything!
Thanks for the question and your patience! We are waiting to hear back from Contour on their official suggestion. The Contour Hybrid Wipes are certainly the preferred method, we will update this as soon as we hear anything!
1/26/2022
Thanks! I'll wait for info from Contour
1/27/2022
Fedor,
We have an answer! "Mild dish soap and lukewarm water could work well. Really saturate it and wipe it a bunch then let it dry for a while." Hope this helps!
We have an answer! "Mild dish soap and lukewarm water could work well. Really saturate it and wipe it a bunch then let it dry for a while." Hope this helps!
1/27/2022
Thanks for your info; I hope it will help
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1/21/2022
My skis are 189cm 128-96-110. Should I get the 115 185-195 or the 115 177-184?
1/21/2022
Hans,
Given the dimensions of your skis the 115mm 185-195cm length is the one for you!
Given the dimensions of your skis the 115mm 185-195cm length is the one for you!
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I've used about every brand of skins over the years. These ones are unique. At first you notice how easy it is to separate the skins. My first thought was these aren't going to stay on my skis for multiple transitions. My second was, man these are so compact compared to other skins.
So after a season of use last winter I can say they held up well to many many transitions in the field last season and they are super compact and tuck nicely in to your jacket between laps.
This season I had about 10 days on them when I had what appeared to be total glue failure. Temps were below zero F with fluffy powder. I was pretty bummed thinking that maybe these skins are only good for one season.
I called the great folks at SkimCo and they told me about the cleaning packets that are used for these skins. I looked through my pile of ski crap and found the packets that came included with the skins. I didn't really even notice them when I got the skins. I cleaned as directed and the glue seems good as new. Super tacky and they stick like new. I think these skins are awesome. Good stick, good climbing, and good glide. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah compact as well.
So after a season of use last winter I can say they held up well to many many transitions in the field last season and they are super compact and tuck nicely in to your jacket between laps.
This season I had about 10 days on them when I had what appeared to be total glue failure. Temps were below zero F with fluffy powder. I was pretty bummed thinking that maybe these skins are only good for one season.
I called the great folks at SkimCo and they told me about the cleaning packets that are used for these skins. I looked through my pile of ski crap and found the packets that came included with the skins. I didn't really even notice them when I got the skins. I cleaned as directed and the glue seems good as new. Super tacky and they stick like new. I think these skins are awesome. Good stick, good climbing, and good glide. What more could you ask for? Oh yeah compact as well.
10/29/2022
Thanks, nice to read these kind of reviews! Werner from contour
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12/25/2021
Hi there! Wondering about sizing for Contour Hybrid skins . . . to fit a set of WNDR Vitals, 126-100-118. Will the 115 size work? Those are 176 in length.
Thanks!
Thanks!
12/27/2021
Jeremy- The 115 width would be perfect and I would buy the 169-176cm length for you ski.
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12/17/2021
Hello,
I am looking at using these skins for my 169 icelantic riveters 95. I am right on cusp for length. Knowing that most skins stretch over time I don't want to get a skin that starts too long and cant absorb lengthening from use. Do you think the 115mm x 161-168cm would accommodate my 169s? I would prefer to go shorter than longer if possible.
I am looking at using these skins for my 169 icelantic riveters 95. I am right on cusp for length. Knowing that most skins stretch over time I don't want to get a skin that starts too long and cant absorb lengthening from use. Do you think the 115mm x 161-168cm would accommodate my 169s? I would prefer to go shorter than longer if possible.
12/17/2021
Hi Cara,
I put the 161-168's on another pair of skis that were 169cm in length and there was an extra couple of centimeters to spare. Do it! I hope that helps.
I put the 161-168's on another pair of skis that were 169cm in length and there was an extra couple of centimeters to spare. Do it! I hope that helps.
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