It is essential to maintain your skis so they are in excellent order and work at their best on the slope. Many ask, “Do I need to wax my skis for storage?” My answer is always yes—you should wax your skis before storing them. Waxing is essential because it protects your skis from oxidation, moisture, and damage, helping them stay in excellent condition for the next skiing season. We want our skis to be ready when winter comes around again, and a good waxing is a simple way to ensure they are. This article will explore why waxing skis before storage is essential, the steps to properly wax skis for storage, and some additional tips to ensure your skis remain in perfect condition during the off-season.
Why Waxing Skis for Storage is Essential
Waxing your skis before storing them has some essential benefits. It helps keep them in great shape and ready to perform when the season starts again. There are 6 reasons why waxing your skis for storage is so important.
1. Prevent Oxidation
Polyethylene is the usual material used in constructing ski bases, which can oxidize when they are not being used. This makes them appear dry and white, reducing their sliding ability on snow. Applying a thick coat of wax over this area will seal it against air penetration, thus preventing oxidation and ensuring that your skis are always smooth and ready for the winter season.
2. Moisture Protection
Moisture can lead to rust on the metal edges of your skis. Rust can weaken the ski edges, affecting performance. The wax is a barrier against moisture, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion. This protection is essential to keep your skis in top condition and ready for smooth slope turns.
3. Maintain Flexibility
Ski bases can dry out if not properly maintained, losing their flexibility. Flexibility is vital for adequate turns and control on the snow. Wax prevents the base from drying out, ensuring it stays flexible and responsive. You can enjoy better performance and a smoother ride by maintaining the ski’s flexibility.
4. Reduce Friction
Wax decreases friction between the skis and the snow, allowing for smoother and faster skiing. This is important for a good skiing experience. During storage, wax helps keep the base ready, preventing a sticky feeling when using it again.
5. Preserve Structure
Ski bases can develop scratches and minor abrasions over time, which can affect the ski’s performance if not treated. Wax seals these minor imperfections, preserving the ski’s structural integrity. This ensures the skis are in perfect condition when the season starts again, reducing wear and tear.
6. Save on Repairs
Proper waxing and storage can save you money by reducing the need for costly repairs. Unwaxed skis are more prone to damage, leading to potential expenses for fixes. Regularly waxing and storing your skis properly prevents damage and saves on repair costs.
Waxing your skis before storing them for the off-season helps keep them in excellent condition. This care and maintenance ensure your skis perform well when you’re ready to hit the slopes again. If you don’t apply a storage wax, your skis might feel slow and sticky on early-season snow. Inspect your skis and apply fresh wax if needed after storage to make sure they’re in top shape. Taking these steps protects your investment and improves your skiing experience.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wax Your Skis for Storage
There is a slightly different approach to waxing skis for storage than waxing them for skiing. Here are the 4 steps in waxing skis for storage.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you start, collect the tools and materials required.
- You will require ski-specific wax used in storage or high-temperature waxes because it is thicker and provides long-term protection.
- A ski-specific iron should help melt and spread wax evenly. Ski bases can be damaged by regular irons due to high temperatures.
- Use a plastic scraper to get rid of excess wax.
- Use a nylon or horsehair brush to polish the base after scraping.
- A ski must be wiped down with a clean cloth before applying any wax on it.
Step 2: Clean Your Skis
It is critical to clean your skis before applying any wax.
- Use a wax remover to strip away any old wax from the base. Spray or apply the remover and wipe it with a clean cloth.
- Wipe down the skis to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Dirt can prevent the wax from sticking to the base.
- Make sure the skis are completely dry before moving to the next step. Moisture can prevent the wax from bonding correctly.
Step 3: Apply Wax Evenly
Applying wax correctly ensures maximum protection during storage:
- Set your waxing iron to the appropriate temperature for your storage wax. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature settings.
- Hold the wax against the iron and let it drip onto the ski base. Spread the wax evenly across the entire length of the ski.
- Use the iron to spread the wax evenly. Move the iron from tip to tail in smooth, continuous motions. Avoid keeping the iron in one spot for too long, as this can damage the base.
Step 4: Leave the Wax on the Skis
Unlike regular waxing, where you scrape off the wax, leave the wax on the skis for storage. This thick layer of wax provides a protective seal during the off-season:
- Leave the wax unscraped on the skis. The wax acts as a shield, preventing air and moisture from affecting the base.
- Ensure the wax layer is smooth and even across the skin surface. This uniform layer offers the best protection.
For those looking to prepare their skis for skiing instead of storage, check out our guide on how to wax skis for speed and performance. This guide covers the steps to get your skis in top shape for the slopes.
Extra Tips for Storing Your Skis Safely
In the off-season, there are 4 simple storage tips other than waxing your skis that can be observed to maintain them excellently. These practices will help protect your skis and prepare them for the next winter season.
Store Skis in a Cool, Dry Place
Cool and dry places keep the skis safe from heat damage and moisture penetration. Sunlight should be avoided since it may cause the ski board to curve at an abnormal rate or melt the wax on it. Look for an area that maintains a constant temperature, like a basement or a specific room for ski storage. If your storage space is damp, use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity and prevent rust.
Use Ski Straps
Ski straps help keep skis together and prevent unnecessary pressure on the bindings. Secure the bindings in a relaxed position using ski straps. This reduces stress on the binding springs, which can wear out over time. Ski straps also protect the edges of your skis by keeping them from bumping into other objects, reducing the risk of damage.
Inspect Skis Regularly
Regular check-ups will help you identify any problems earlier, keeping your skis ready for use always. Look out for signs of moisture or rust on your skis, and if you come across any, clean them immediately and let them dry as soon as possible. Confirm that the wax layer is still protecting its base. Apply additional wax if necessary. Further, inspect the bindings for any signs of wear and tear. If there are broken parts, replace or repair them before the skiing season starts.
Rust Protection for Metal Edges
Metal edges require special attention to prevent rust. Apply a rust protector spray to the edges to create a barrier against moisture. This simple step helps keep your edges sharp and free of rust. Regularly inspect the edges for any signs of rust or corrosion, and clean them if necessary to maintain their condition.
Following these tips can help you keep your skis in great shape during the off-season, ready for another fun and exciting winter on the slopes.
Conclusion
Waxing skis for storage is crucial in maintaining their condition and ensuring peak performance when the skiing season resumes. Applying a thick layer of storage wax protects your skis from oxidation, moisture, and structural damage. Additionally, proper storage practices, such as using ski straps and inspecting regularly, further preserve the integrity of your equipment.
Incorporating these strategies into your ski maintenance routine prolongs the life of your skis, enhances performance, and reduces the need for costly repairs. Remember, well-maintained skis lead to a better skiing experience, so invest in proper care today and enjoy the slopes for many seasons.
Ski Waxing & Storage FAQ: Common Questions Answered
Why Do New Skis Need Waxing Before Storage?
Although new skis are generally already waxed at the factory, adding a coat of extra storage wax is crucial. The factory’s wax is usually thin and not suitable for long-term protection. By applying storage wax, you’ll ensure your skis stay in pristine condition, as it will protect them from oxidation and moisture.
What Happens If You Store Skis Without Wax?
If you store your skis without applying wax, there can be some issues. The base could oxidize, which looks chalky and reduces glide. Moisture can also enter, causing rust on the edges of the ski or damage to ski materials. Over time, an unwaxed ski will develop cracks or loss of flexibility, thus affecting its performance.
How Often Should You Wax Your Skis During the Season?
How often you need to wax can be determined slowly since it depends mainly on how much skiing you do and the conditions encountered. For everyday use, it is general advice to wax after every 4-6 days on the slope. If it is icy, though, more regular waxes will help maintain base protection and smooth sliding action. Those who feel they need help doing this job alone should consider getting these items done professionally if they want the best results from their skiing efforts.
How to tell if your skis need waxing?
To tell if your skis need waxing, look for a dry or chalky appearance on the base. If your skis feel sticky, sluggish, or “grab” the snow, it’s a sign they need a fresh layer of wax. Changes in snow conditions or temperature can also indicate it’s time for a wax. Regular maintenance keeps your skis performing at their best.
