Maintenance & Handling: iGates® , Inflator, Drill bit

Every new system has a learning curve , and full-size inflatable slalom iGates® are no different. Following these steps will help ensure proper use, longer life, and lower costs.

Cordless drill set with accessories and carrying bag.
Close-up of a red spiral cable lock attached to a yellow bike lock strap.

 

Daily Care

  • Open the carrying bag lid to let the iGates dry out after each use.
  • Always store full size inflatable slalom iGates® folded & completely dry to prevent damage, long term.

Maintenance

  • Apply a light coat of silicone grease to all four O-rings on both valves once a year.
  • Avoid sharp objects—such as pole guards (!)—that could damage the iGates®. Smooth surfaces are safer for racers.
  • Neoprene ski boot covers are an idea for added warmth, speed, and iGate protection.
  • Keep iGates® out of direct sunlight to prevent color fading, store at an inside location.
  • Fold iGates correctly after removal from the snow and store only dry poles in your carrying bag, longterm. The drill bit should be carried inside the supplied tube.

 

Travel & Storage

  • When traveling by air, carry all DeWalt DCB206 6Ah 20/60V batteries (for drills or inflators) & CR2032 for RF fill tip, in your carry-on luggage ONLY. TSA will confiscate batteries from checked baggage.
  • Unscrew the hose from the inflator and carry it, complete with the battery, in your carry-on luggage. No need to remove the button battery this way, for air travel. Easier option.
  • Nothing is easier than to travel with iGates® worldwide.
  • Dry storage only.
  • ©2025/26 Airkipp, LLC USA International.©

MISHAP

Skier racing down a snowy slope during a slalom event.
DeWalt FLEXVOLT 20V battery for power tools with 160+ Agates capacity.
Skier making a sharp right turn on a snowy slope during a race.
Measurement diagram of a yellow and red object labeled 'EGGER'.

Easy way to close the fill valve PLUG, hack.

iGates Chongli Team at Olympic venue 2026

Operation

  • Only use the designated iGates® air Inflator with the pre-set air pressure. iGates® not under full 20psi pressure will not function properly!! Using any other inflator voids the warranty. A custom backpack is supplied to protect the inflator, please use it!  The same is true for the specialized Drill bit, including the protective TUBE. Sharp multy-use cutting blades!
  • Set the full-size inflatable iGates®  perpendicular to the slope. Alternating colors as needed, the COMBO colors are a revolutionary invention.
  • Clear the gate using the body, shin, or shoulder—focus below the knees for best performance.
  • Eliminate cross-blocking(!) totally, with hands or arms; it’s outdated and inefficient. Many armour accessories may be unnecessary. Your choice.

Additional Tips

  • Review the demonstration VIDEO on this website for proper form and setup. A picture is worth a thousand words. Study it on a big screen. More videos to follow. Post this video on your favorite social platform.
  • For GS, SG and Downhill, position SEVERAL iGates® side-by-side for optimal visibility and performance. 2 (GS), 3 (SG) or 4 (DH) poles side by side. Use the available RACE Course setting, official sizing Template*, that is foldable and easy to carry along. Highest visibility and utmost safety! No saggy panels anymore.
  • Advertising SLEEVES are available to be placed directly on to the individual poles.  Sleeves provide for high visibility messaging. Sleeves are custom printed for your Sponsors needs. See photo pictured on left. INQUIRE.

 

 

iGates® complete Tutorial video 2026