When the lifts stop spinning and the snow melts, it’s time to show your skis some love and tuck them in for the next few months — the right way. Proper summer ski storage ensures your gear is ready to shred as soon as winter rolls around again. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to help you store your skis like a pro.
1. Thoroughly Clean Your Skis
Begin by removing all dirt, grime, and salt from your skis. Use a gentle hose rinse and a soft towel to wipe them down. Avoid harsh chemicals or degreasers, as they can damage the ski materials. Ensure the skis are completely dry before proceeding to prevent rust.
2. De-burring your edges
Cleaning and de-burring edges is the next step. Start by cleaning and getting all the moisture off the edges. Once your edges are cleaned, we recommend removing any irregularities or burrs using a diamond stone (SWIX makes the classic). Rub the diamond stone along the edge a few times until it feels nice and smooth.
3. Apply Storage Wax
Applying a generous coat of storage wax protects the ski bases and edges from oxidation and drying out. Try our eco-friendly wax for best results. Leave the wax on without scraping it off; this acts as a protective barrier during the off-season. This simple step can be done at home and is critical for maintaining ski performance.
4. Loosen Binding DIN's
Reducing the tension in your ski bindings during storage can prolong their lifespan. Loosen the DIN settings to minimize stress on the springs, but note the original settings to readjust them before the next use. This practice helps maintain binding integrity over time.
5. Choose the Right Storage Location
Store your skis in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ideal locations include climate-controlled basements or closets. If you only have a garage or shed, using a ski bag can provide additional protection from dust and accidental damage. Just be sure the skis and bag are 100% dry before storing.
Bonus Tip: Feel good about yourself (and skis)
You invest a lot into your skis — in both money and memories. Taking 20 minutes to properly store them protects that investment and means no surprises when the first snow flies. Plus, it’s the kind of care a passionate skier takes pride in.
4FRNT Pro Tip - If you do all of this you will ski twice as fast as your friends next season (especially on the first run when they realize they left their skis dirty all summer).
