Ah, winter. The time of year when the snow falls, the hot cocoa flows, and the skis come out to play. Before you hit the slopes, there’s one thing you don’t want to forget to do and that’s wax your skis or board. We put together a simple guide to get you started so you can wax your skis without taking them to the local shop.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, waxing your skis sounds about as fun as doing your taxes or cleaning the gutters. Trust me, it’s actually a simple and satisfying task that will make your skis glide smoothly and effortlessly on the snow.
First things first: gather your supplies. You’ll need a waxing iron, ski wax, a scraper, and a brush. You can find these items at our online shop or a local shop in your area. If you have any gouges that are too much for wax, use P-Tex to fill these in for a more permanent fix.
The wax you choose is most important, and that’s why we recommend our Outbound Premium 1977 Ski Wax. Perfectly blended ski wax that was originally formulated in the 70’s, this wax keeps you cruising down the mountain in any weather conditions.
Next, plug in your waxing iron and set it to the appropriate temperature for the type of wax you’re using. Check the label on the wax for specific temperature recommendations.
While the iron heats up, use the scraper and brush to remove any dirt or old wax from the base of your skis. This will help the new wax adhere properly and give you a smooth, even finish.
Once the iron is hot, carefully apply the wax to your ski bases in a thin, even layer. Don’t be afraid to get a little wild and creative with your waxing techniques – this is supposed to be fun after all!
After the wax has cooled and hardened, use your scraper to remove any excess wax. Be sure to scrape in the same direction as your ski base. This will ensure a smooth and even finish.
Now it’s time for the moment of truth – take your freshly waxed skis out for a test run and see how they perform! Did your waxing techniques pay off?
The added layer of wax will only last around 3-5 days max. For maximum speed, wax your skis a couple times a year or buy some rub on wax for quick application. This route will ultimately cost more in the long run.
Waxing your skis doesn’t have to be a chore, with a little creativity and some fun tunes, you can turn it into a fun and exciting part of your skiing routine. Happy Waxing!
Video: How to Wax Your Skis
If you’re looking for a video, check our REI’s on Youtube