Preserve Your Gear for Next Season’s First Chair
As spring winds down and the snow starts to melt, it’s time to shift from mountain runs to gear maintenance. Proper off-season storage of skis, snowboards, boots, and apparel is essential for keeping everything in top condition and ready to perform once the lifts start spinning again.
Neglecting to store ski gear correctly can lead to rusted edges, warped bases, and damaged boots—not to mention the hassle of rushed repairs come first snowfall. To avoid those costly mistakes, follow these expert-approved storage tips and keep everything mountain-ready for next season.
Why Off-Season Ski Care Matters
Ski gear is an investment, and like any equipment, it requires proper maintenance to extend its lifespan. Off-season care helps:
Prevent rust and corrosion on metal edges
Maintain base structure and integrity
Protect boot liners and shells from warping
Avoid mildew or odors from trapped moisture
Save money on repairs or premature replacements
Taking a few simple steps at the end of the season can lead to smoother, safer days on the mountain next winter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Skis and Snowboards
Clean Everything Thoroughly
Before storage, all gear should be free of dirt, salt, and grime. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to wipe down skis, snowboards, and bindings. Remove old wax and buildup using a plastic scraper or base cleaner.
Dry Completely
Moisture is a major enemy of ski gear. After cleaning, ensure everything is completely dry—including hard-to-reach areas like binding springs and boot liners.
Apply Storage Wax
Hot waxing skis or snowboards before storage is crucial. Apply a thick layer of wax (do not scrape it off) to protect the base from drying out and the edges from rusting.
Pro Tip: American Ski Exchange offers end-of-season tuning packages, including storage wax applications.
Loosen Bindings
Loosen the DIN settings on ski bindings slightly to relieve spring tension. This prolongs the lifespan of the binding components.
Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment
Avoid garages, attics, or any spot with extreme heat or humidity. Choose a cool, dry space such as a closet or basement where the temperature stays relatively consistent.
Ideal storage spots include:
Inside gear bags with ventilation
On padded ski racks or flat surfaces
Away from direct sunlight and moisture
Boot and Helmet Storage Tips
Boots:
Remove liners and footbeds, then clean and air-dry them completely
Buckle the boots loosely to maintain their shape
Store upright in a cool, dry place
Helmets and Goggles:
Clean goggles with a microfiber cloth
Avoid storing them in helmets where the lens may get scratched
Keep both in a breathable gear bag to protect against dust and debris
Don’t Forget Outerwear and Accessories
Proper care extends to jackets, pants, gloves, and base layers:
Wash and dry technical clothing according to the manufacturer’s instructions
Reapply DWR treatment if water no longer beads on the surface
Inspect zippers, seams, and Velcro for wear and tear
Store in a breathable garment bag or plastic tub with dryer sheets to avoid musty smells
Quick Checklist for End-of-Season Ski Storage
Clean skis, boards, and bindings
Apply storage wax
Loosen ski binding tension
Remove and dry boot liners
Wash and inspect apparel
Store all gear in a dry, temperature-controlled space
Get Help from the Pros at American Ski Exchange
Not sure where to begin? The team at American Ski Exchange is here to help with end-of-season ski and snowboard tuning, professional waxing, and expert storage tips to protect your investment. Let seasoned techs handle the prep so everything is ready to go for the first snowfall.
Have questions or need gear serviced before summer? Call American Ski Exchange at 970-476-3600 or visit online to schedule a service or get expert advice today.