As the snow melts and you enjoy your final ski of the season, now is the perfect moment to give your skis the waxing they need before summer break.

Whether you’re packing them up until next snowfall or keeping them ready for glacier sessions, southern hemisphere skiing vacations, or ski tunnels, a proper waxing and storage routine will protect your skis and keep them fast for seasons to come.

The good news? It doesn’t take long.

Why summer waxing matters

Think of this as a deep conditioning treatment for your skis. Over time, ski bases, made from polyethylene, can oxidize if left exposed to air and dirt. This leads to a dry, brittle base that won’t absorb wax well and may need costly grinding to fix. A quick waxing session now prevents damage, keeps the base hydrated, and saves you time when the snow returns.

Step-by-step summer ski care routine

1. Check your bases first
Look over your skis for scrapes, dings, or dry patches. If the base feels fuzzy or damaged, it might be time for a professional grind. A fresh grind flattens and opens up the base, making it easier to absorb wax come winter.

2. Clean thoroughly
Before waxing, make sure everything is clean:

• Wipe down skis and bindings to remove dirt and grime.
• Use wax remover in the kick zone (classic skis) and a base cleaner for the glide zones (skating or classic). Remove any lingering wax, klister, or dirt. If you’ve used fluoro waxes, take extra care to clear out residue.

3. Apply storage wax
Choose a non-fluoro glide wax with a mid-range temperature range (not too soft or hard). Here’s what to do:

• Melt and iron in a thick layer, covering the entire glide zone.
• Let the wax cool completely, then reheat once to improve absorption.
• Do not scrape! Leave the wax on the base—it acts as a protective seal over the summer.

4. Store wisely
Store your skis in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or pressure. Hanging them on horizontal brackets in your garage, gear room, or basement works well. Avoid tight ski ties or anything that can warp the camber over time.

This article was initially published in April 2025 and updated today.

Also Read: Biggest summer training mistakes recreational skiers make

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