FAQ’s
How do i protect my snowboard?
In the past, snowboarders had very few options to protect their boards, many were makeshift solutions – wrapping the board in towels (adding unnecessary weight), wrapping your board in clothing (risk of ruining), or simply adding one-time-use packaging material (wasteful and space consuming). All these improvised options are less than ideal as they often will not stand up to a high energy impact. We found there weren’t any products on the market made to a suitably high standard. We created VENOM for this specific very purpose. VENOM will encircle your snowboard with thick, industrial grade silicone, effectively limiting the chance of damage from a blunt force impact. Venom works in conjunction with your existing snowboard bag to provide the ultimate protection.
Will silicone protect my snowboard in transit?
During our R&D phase of VENOM, we tested various materials including several grades of rubber, foamed plastics, and polymers before choosing 100% industrial grade silicone. Silicone can be made with a multitude of characteristics and properties – we’ve selected a specific hardness and density for the dual purpose of conforming to a snowboards shape while having the strength to resist and absorb impacts. Choosing the right material is half the battle, our unique design utilizing a proven triangular shape is the other half of the equation.
Will pipe lagging or a pool noodle protect my board?
Unfortunately, no! Often this is the first thing that comes to mind of seasoned snowboarders as many of us have used them in the past because they’re easy to find, cheap, and feel like a robust material - the problem is it splits with a minimal force impact. Pool noodles and pipe lagging aren’t designed for impact protection and when we put them to the test, it offered no resistance to a medium-strong impact. Pipe lagging is specifically designed to insulate pipes not protect from impact. A snowboard’s sharp edge cuts through both materials upon impact.
How long will my venom last?
VENOM is made from 100% silicone and will last the lifetime of your board (unless damaged/torn whilst protecting your snowboard in which case we recommend replacing).
One of the benefits of silicone is its extraordinary durability and resistance to extreme temperatures. Silicone ranks higher than plastic on the green scale for it’s durability/long life and it’s able to be recycled or downcycled into various products, e.g. playground mulch.
What is the likelihood my snowboard/skis will be damaged in transit?
According to a SITA Baggage Insight Report, 18% of all airline baggage is damaged, resulting in approximately 5 million bags per year. The report in it’s entiretly can be found here.
This is roughly a 1 in 5 chance of having your board impacted in some capacity from a minor ding to a full crack. We feel that level of risk is too high.
Is there a venom for skis?
We have made a prototype product with our manufacturing team although we are not selling it yet. VENOM can be cut to fit around a typical ski but our aim is to bring the most efficient & effective product to market and a ski-centric version is on the way!
What potential risks exist for my ski/snowboard bag during airline travel?
From our anecdotal evidence, the videos we’ve watched, and the baggage handlers we’ve heard from, you can expect your luggage to be dropped from heights, thrown haphazardly, kicked, run over by baggage transport vehicles, and seemingly the list goes on and on. Check out our baggage fails video HERE for a look at how your luggage is sometimes handled.
How will I know if Venom has worked?
You may never know. We have found that it takes a significant amount of exterior force for the edge of your snowboard to split the silicone. We recommend inspecting the inside of VENOM after each trip to check if it’s absorbed a strong enough impact to actually split. If it has split then you’re board has been subjected to a very high energy impact (equivalent to swinging a hammer at high speed, check out our video HERE) and VENOM has done it’s job! At that point we recommend replacing your VENOM as the damage sustained would leave a vulnerability if it were struck in the same location.
Does Venom come in different sizes?
We’ve measured a lot of snowboards and found that 3.75 metres of VENOM will fit almost every board. If you’ve measured the circumference of your snowboard and it exceeds 3.75 m, CONTACT US and we’ll cut a VENOM specifically to the length you need.
Will major airlines pay for my damaged equipment?
Short answer – it depends. We’ve found the process is made to be intentionally lengthy and difficult to dissuade a passenger from continuing the claim process. Most airlines will simply refuse to pay for damaged snowboards or skis if they were not transported in a hard case. Fully enclosed hard cases are quite expensive (upwards of USD 350), heavier than soft cases, and bulky to store when not in use. There is no simple solution to travelling with expensive equipment/gear/kit, or universal airline policy. In addition to using our protective product, we recommend insuring your valuable boards/skis, and becoming familiar with your chosen airline’s policy.
If damaged, where can I get my board repaired/restored?
Some snowboard retailers or resorts have repair capabilities, typically they’re not widely available. In our experience, it’s a good idea to call ahead and enquire specifically for your requirements. Repair times will vary but you can safely assume a minimum 24 hrs turnaround for a repair where an epoxy is needed.
Will VENOM fit in my Snowboard bag?
Yes - we’ve tested many boards in a multitude of bags and found the fit to be just fine. If the silicone is grabbing or catching on the inside of your board bag then apply some talcum powder to the outside of your VENOM board protector and it will slide easily into your board bag (silicone is a naturally high friction material).
And a BONUS, VENOM will reduce the friction between your snowboard’s edge and snowboard bag, helping to reduce the chances of your bag wearing through thereby extending the lifespan of your favourite bag!
How can i cut venom to my requirements?
Silicone can be cut fairly easily with scissors or razor blade (use caution). On your first application of VENOM around your snowboard you’ll notice the excess length - this should be precisely trimmed off to ensure a proper fit in transit. Check out our tutorial video HERE for some tips on how to easily apply VENOM.