Maintain your skis or snowboard before winter !

Winter is approaching, and with it comes the joy of gliding down snowy slopes. Whether you're an experienced skier or an occasional snowboarder, maintaining your equipment is a crucial step to ensure optimal performance, increased safety, and a longer lifespan for your gear. Yet, many people neglect this step, mistakenly believing that cold and snow alone are enough to preserve their skis or snowboard.

In this article, we’ll explore why it’s essential to regularly maintain your skis or snowboard and, most importantly, how to do it effectively to fully enjoy every run.

1. Why Maintain Your Skis or Snowboard?

a) Improve Performance on the Slopes

Well-maintained equipment glides better. Skis or snowboards with smooth bases and sharp edges provide better grip on the snow, resulting in:

Better responsiveness in turns.
Optimal speed without extra effort.
Increased control, especially on icy or groomed slopes.

Conversely, dull edges or a dry, cracked base increase resistance and make gliding less enjoyable—or even dangerous.

b) Extend the Lifespan of Your Equipment

Skis and snowboards are expensive investments. Regular maintenance helps:

Prevent edge oxidation, which can render them unusable.
Avoid cracks in the base or top of the ski/snowboard caused by cold, moisture, or impacts.
Reduce premature wear from friction on snow or rocks.

Well-maintained equipment can last several seasons, while neglected gear may degrade in just one year.

c) Ensure Safety

Poorly sharpened edges or a damaged base can cause accidents:

Loss of control during fast descents or on moguls.
Increased risk of falls, especially for beginners.
Sudden equipment failure mid-descent (e.g., base delamination).

Regular maintenance reduces these risks and ensures safer practice.

2. Key Maintenance Steps

a) Clean After Each Use

Melted snow, mud, and road salt are corrosive. After each outing:

Wipe your skis or snowboard with a dry cloth to remove moisture.
Use a specific product to clean the base and prevent dirt buildup.

b) Sharpen the Edges

Sharp edges are essential for good grip. Use:

An edge file to remove burrs.
A sharpening tool to restore the edge.
An angle guide for precise sharpening (typically 88° for skis, 90° for snowboards).

Frequency: 1–2 times per season, or after 10–15 days of intensive use.

c) Wax the Base

Waxing reduces friction and protects the base. Choose a wax suited to the snow temperature:

Warm wax for soft snow.
Cold wax for hard or icy snow.

Method:

Heat the wax with an iron.
Spread it evenly on the base.
Let it cool, then scrape off the excess with a scraper.

Frequency: Every 3–5 days of skiing, or when the base looks dull.

d) Check the Bindings

Poorly adjusted or worn bindings can release unexpectedly—or worse, fail to release during a fall. Have them checked by a professional at least once a year.

e) Store Your Equipment Properly

Avoid moisture: Store skis/snowboards in a dry place.
Don’t lay them flat: Use vertical racks to prevent warping.
Protect them with a cover to minimize scratches.

3. When to Call a Professional?

Some tasks require expert intervention:

Repairing cracks in the base or top.
Replacing severely damaged edges.
Adjusting bindings (especially after a fall or impact).

A workshop visit at the start and end of the season is recommended for a full check-up. For example, you can sharpen your edges in one of our partner rental shops in Risoul 1850.

4. Mistakes to Avoid

Using inappropriate tools (e.g., a metal file for edges).
Waxing without cleaning the base first.
Storing equipment near a heat source (e.g., radiator), which can warp skis or dry out binding glue.

Conclusion

Maintaining your skis or snowboard isn’t a chore—it’s a guarantee of enjoyment, safety, and long-term savings. By following these tips, you’ll enjoy every run with high-performing, reliable equipment, ready to tackle all snow conditions.

So, before hitting the slopes, take the time to pamper your gear—it will pay you back a hundredfold!

How do you maintain your skis or snowboard? Share your tips!