How to Store Skis in Summer
When ski season ends, it’s tempting to slide your skis into a corner and forget about them until the first storm next winter.
But how you store your skis over the summer has a real impact on how they perform next season.
If you’re wondering how to store skis in summer, here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to protecting your gear during the off-season.
Step 1: Clean Your Skis Thoroughly
Before putting skis away for months:
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Wipe down the topsheets
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Remove dirt and grime from the base
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Dry the edges completely
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Clean around the bindings
Spring skiing often means dirty, wet snow. Leaving debris or moisture on your skis all summer can lead to rust and oxidation.
Clean skis store better.
Step 2: Repair Any Damage
The end of the season is the best time to address:
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Base scratches
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Small gouges
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Edge burrs
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Minor rust
Fixing small issues now prevents them from worsening over time.
If your skis need a professional tune or base grind, consider doing it before storage so they’re ready for next winter.
Step 3: Apply Storage Wax (Don’t Scrape It)
Storage wax is one of the most important summer steps.
To apply:
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Clean the base.
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Apply a thick layer of wax.
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Spread evenly with an iron.
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Let cool.
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Do not scrape it off.
The wax seals the base and protects it from drying out and oxidizing over the summer.
When ski season returns, simply scrape and brush before use.
Step 4: Keep Skis in a Cool, Dry Location
Ideal summer storage conditions:
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Dry environment
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Stable temperature
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Away from direct sunlight
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Low humidity
Avoid:
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Damp basements
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Hot attics
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Unventilated sheds
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Areas near water heaters
Heat and moisture are the biggest threats to ski materials.
Step 5: Store Skis Properly
You can store skis:
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Upright
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Flat
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Lightly clipped together
The key is:
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Avoid bending or stressing the camber
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Keep them off damp floors
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Allow some airflow
Leaning skis directly on concrete can trap moisture along the edges.
Why Vertical Storage Works Well
Many skiers prefer storing skis vertically because it:
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Keeps them off the ground
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Reduces moisture contact
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Saves garage space
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Prevents accidental tipping
A wall-mounted storage system like Gravity Grabber provides a stable, upright position for skis throughout the summer.
Gravity Grabber is a vertical wall-mounted rack designed to hold skis and snowboards between open arms without clamping or compressing them. This allows skis to rest naturally while staying elevated and secure.
While proper cleaning and waxing are the most important steps, having a consistent storage spot makes it easier to protect your gear year-round.
Step 6: Loosen Binding Tension (Optional)
Some skiers slightly reduce DIN settings for long-term storage to relieve spring tension.
If you do this:
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Record your settings
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Reset them before next season
Consult a technician if unsure.
What Happens If You Don’t Store Skis Properly?
Improper summer storage can lead to:
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Rusted edges
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Dry, oxidized bases
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Reduced camber
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Delamination
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More work next fall
A little preparation now saves time and maintenance later.
FAQ: How to Store Skis in Summer
Should I wax skis before summer?
Yes. Apply storage wax and leave it unscraped.
Can skis be stored in a garage?
Yes, if the garage is dry and temperature-stable.
Is it okay to store skis upright?
Yes. Upright storage is safe if skis are supported properly.
Do bindings need adjustment in summer?
Some skiers reduce DIN tension, but it’s optional.
When should I scrape storage wax?
Right before your first ski day next season.
Protect Them Now, Enjoy Them Later
Learning how to store skis in summer ensures they’re ready when winter returns.
Clean them. Wax them. Store them in a dry, stable place.
And if you give them a consistent, upright home, you’ll protect both performance and lifespan — making next season’s first run feel just as good as the last.