How to Prepare Skis at the End of the Season

How to Prepare Skis at the End of the Season

The snow is melting. Lifts are closing. And your skis are about to sit untouched for months.

What you do now determines how they’ll perform next winter.

If you’re wondering how to prepare skis at the end of the season, the goal is simple: protect the bases, prevent rust, and store them in a way that preserves performance.

Here’s the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Clean the Bases Thoroughly

Before putting skis away for summer:

  • Remove dirt and grime

  • Wipe down the topsheets

  • Clean any old wax buildup

  • Dry the skis completely

Spring snow often contains debris and moisture that shouldn’t sit on your skis for months.

Clean skis store better.

Step 2: Inspect for Damage

The end of the season is the perfect time to check for:

  • Deep base scratches

  • Edge burrs

  • Rust spots

  • Binding looseness

  • Delamination at tips or tails

If your skis need a professional tune or repair, now is the time to do it.

That way, they’re ready when winter returns.

Step 3: Apply Storage Wax (Don’t Scrape It)

This is the most important off-season step.

To apply storage wax:

  1. Melt a generous layer of wax onto the base.

  2. Spread it evenly with an iron.

  3. Let it cool.

  4. Do not scrape it off.

Leaving wax on the base protects it from oxidation and keeps it from drying out over the summer.

When ski season starts again, scrape and brush before use.

Step 4: Remove Surface Rust

If you notice light rust on the edges:

  • Use a gummy stone to remove it gently

  • Wipe the edges clean

  • Ensure skis are completely dry

Rust left untreated can worsen over time.

Step 5: Loosen Binding Tension (Optional)

Some skiers reduce DIN settings slightly during long-term storage to relieve spring tension.

If you do this:

  • Record your original settings

  • Reset them before skiing again

If unsure, consult a technician.

Step 6: Store Skis in a Dry Location

Ideal storage conditions include:

  • A cool, dry room

  • Moderate temperature

  • Low humidity

  • Away from direct sunlight

Avoid:

  • Damp basements

  • Hot attics

  • Unventilated sheds

  • Areas near water heaters or heaters

Moisture and extreme heat are the main enemies.

Step 7: Store Skis Properly

You can store skis:

  • Upright

  • Flat

  • Lightly clipped together

The key is:

  • Avoid bending them unnaturally

  • Keep them off damp floors

  • Allow airflow

Proper support prevents unnecessary stress on camber and materials.

What Happens If You Don’t Prepare Skis for Storage?

Skipping end-of-season prep can lead to:

  • Dry, oxidized bases

  • Rusted edges

  • Reduced glide next season

  • Premature wear

  • More work in the fall

A small effort now saves time and money later.

FAQ: How to Prepare Skis at the End of the Season

Should I wax skis before summer storage?

Yes. Apply storage wax and leave it unscraped.

Do I need a full tune before storing?

It’s recommended, especially if your skis have damage.

Can I store skis in a garage?

Yes, if it’s dry and temperature-stable.

Should skis be clipped together?

Lightly clipped is fine, but avoid tight compression.

When should I scrape storage wax?

Right before your first ski day next season.

Protect Now, Glide Later

Knowing how to prepare skis at the end of the season protects your investment and ensures you’re ready when the snow returns.

Clean them. Wax them. Store them properly.

A little attention in spring makes next winter’s first run feel just right.

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