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Gasser Rodel · Tips & Tricks

Ready for the trail. More joy in every ride.

Stay safe, care for your sled and store it properly: practical advice from the Gasser workshop.

Two adults sledding in a Tyrolean winter landscape

Three essentials for many great winter days.

On the trail and at home, a little preparation helps you enjoy your sled for years to come.

Person pulling a sled through a snowy forest 01 · Sled safely

Sled safely

For an enjoyable and safe sledding trip with family and friends, keep these tips in mind.

  • Be considerate of other sledders.
  • Follow closures and warnings. Check that the trail is open for sledding, and find out about its route and condition.
  • Use suitable equipment: a quality sled, warm clothing, gloves, a helmet and sturdy footwear.
  • Plastic bobsleds and plastic sliding mats are not suitable for sledding trails because of the gradient.
  • Their limited or absent steering can lead to serious accidents.
  • Walk uphill on the right, one behind the other.
  • Cross the sledding trail only where you have a clear view.
  • Ride under control, within your field of vision, and keep your distance.
  • Adjust your speed and riding style to your ability, the trail, snow, ice and weather conditions, and the number of other users.
  • Never stop in a blind bend. If you must stop in a bend, move to the inside or leave the trail as quickly as possible.
  • Make yourself heard and warn people walking uphill who have not noticed you.
  • Use a headlamp and reflective clothing when sledding in the dark.
  • For moonlight sledding, check whether the trail is lit and bring a headlamp or flashlight if needed.
  • Wait for your companions where others can see you clearly.
  • Brake briefly before tight bends, then steer into the turn.
  • Sledding on ski slopes is extremely dangerous and prohibited.
  • Alcohol, medication and drugs impair your reactions and your ability to judge risks.
  • If you stop at a mountain hut, secure your sled against theft with a bicycle lock.
Gasser sleds with woven seats in the workshop 02 · Care for your sled

Care for your sled

With proper care, your sled will be a reliable companion on your winter outings for years to come.

  • Sand steel runners in the direction of travel with 40–80 grit.
  • Sand coated runners in the direction of travel with 80–100 grit.
  • Note: Coated runners do not need sanding as often.
  • The warmer the snow, the rougher the runner surface should be.
  • After sanding, pass steel wool over the runners once or twice in the direction of travel.
  • Never polish the runners.
  • Both coated and steel runners can be treated with commercially available waxes or pastes.
  • After waxing, use a brush to create a texture on the runners.
  • When fitting steel runners, allow for 1 mm of toe-in.
  • Wipe the runners dry after every sledding trip.
  • Do not leave the sled in direct sunlight inside a car for extended periods.
Gasser sled with a red frame and blue seat 03 · Store it properly

Store it properly

These simple steps help keep your sled ready after each outing and throughout the summer break.

  • Lightly oil steel runners or apply a commercially available wax.
  • Wax coated runners only; do not oil them.
  • Store the sled standing freely or lying flat in a cool, dry place.
  • Never lean the sled on one side or place objects on top of it.
  • Keep it away from radiators and other heat sources.

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