A well-maintained ski glides better, grips better, and is more enjoyable to ski. Maintenance isn't just about gaining speed: on hard snow, edges in good condition can transform your control and confidence.
SIMPLE ROUTINE |
After every day
- Remove snow and water.
- Wipe the edges.
- Let them dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid leaving damp skis in a closed bag.
- Inspect for visible damage.
When should you sharpen your edges?
There is no universal number of days. On hard, icy snow, edges can lose their bite more quickly. If the ski slips sideways when your technique is correct, if you feel burrs when touching them, or if the edge has suffered an impact, a check-up is recommended.
When should you wax?
A dry base can turn grayish or whitish. Wax improves glide and helps protect the base material. The frequency depends on the snow, temperature, type of wax, and the number of days skied.
Repairing bases
A small, superficial scratch is not necessarily urgent. A deep gouge that reaches the core or runs along the edge must be repaired quickly to prevent water infiltration and further damage.
End-of-season storage
- Clean and dry the skis completely.
- Have major damage repaired.
- Apply a thicker layer of storage wax if recommended.
- Store in a dry, temperature-controlled space.
- Avoid very humid basements or spaces subject to extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Have your bindings checked before the next season.
When to replace your skis?
- Cracked or torn-out edges.
- Significant delamination of the structure.
- Exposed core or water infiltration.
- Significant loss of stiffness after many seasons.
- Base too damaged to be reasonably repaired.
- Your needs have changed significantly: level, terrain, or style.
- The bindings have become too old or can no longer be maintained, according to a shop's evaluation.
How many seasons can a ski last?
There is no fixed lifespan. A skier who goes 5 days per winter wears their skis much less than someone who goes 50. Build quality, snow conditions, impacts, storage, and maintenance all play a role.
FAQ – Ski maintenance
How often should I sharpen my skis?
As soon as grip decreases or the edges show burrs; the frequency depends heavily on the conditions.
How do I know if my skis need wax?
A dry, whitish, or noticeably less slippery base is a common sign.
Can I wax them myself?
Yes, with the right equipment and technique, but a workshop is useful for full maintenance or repairs.
Should I loosen the bindings in the summer?
Follow the manufacturer's or your technician's recommendations; do not change safety settings without knowing what you are doing.
When should I buy new skis?
When the damage is structural, the ski has lost its performance, or your needs have evolved beyond what it can offer.
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SEE ALPINE SKIS |
