Proper summer storage protects your base, preserves your grind, and means less prep work come fall.
Step 1 — Clean the Base
Remove any old kick wax or klister with a wax remover and Fiberlene. Don’t let old wax or dirt sit on the base all summer. It can harden and contaminate the base structure.
Step 2 — Apply a thick layer of storage wax
Apply a thick coat of soft paraffin — red or a dedicated storage wax. Do NOT scrape it off. This layer is intentional. It sits on the base all summer and prevents the base from drying out and oxidizing.
Personally, I do not apply storage wax to the kick zone of my classic skis.
Step 3 — Store horizontally or standing
Store skis flat or standing tip-up in a cool, dry place. Avoid:
- Direct sunlight — UV degrades the base and can warp the ski
- Extreme heat — garages in summer can exceed 120°F and soften camber
- Damp basements — moisture can affect bindings and edges
A climate-controlled space is ideal. A cool closet works well too. Don’t overthink this but try to avoid spaces that undergo extreme shifts in temperature and humidity.
Step 4 — Use ski ties to organize
Skis can be stored base-to-base to help maintain camber through the off-season. This is especially important for classic skis where camber pocket shape matters for kick zone performance.
You can make ski ties following this simple demonstration by Andy Newell. Skip to the 3min mark. Tips for Packing Skis
Basic prep before early winter skiing
When the season returns:
- Scrape off the storage wax
- Brush thoroughly
- Apply your first glide wax of the season and ski
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