5 tips for storing ski & snowboard gear in the off-season
The ski season may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about your gear until next winter. Storing your skis or snowboard properly isn’t just about organization—it’s essential for preventing rust, warping, and unnecessary wear that could impact your performance next season. A little off-season care now means you’ll be ready to hit the slopes the moment the first snow falls.
To help you protect your investment, we’ve gathered top tips from our expert technicians on the best ways to clean, store, and maintain your ski and snowboard gear during the off-season.
Why is off-season care important?
First and foremost, taking care of your gear in the off-season can save you money in the long run. Properly storing your equipment can prevent damage from moisture, rust, and other environmental factors that can lead to costly repairs or even full replacement.
Additionally, taking care of your gear in the off-season can help improve its performance on the mountain. Maintaining your skis or snowboard ensures they're in optimal condition for the next season, providing better control, stability, and overall enjoyment.
How to take care of your gear in the off-season:
1. Clean your equipment thoroughly
Properly storing your skis for the off-season starts with a thorough cleaning. Brush off dirt or debris, then wash the skis with a mild soap and water solution. Pay close attention to the base, edges, and top sheet, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.
Once clean, dry them thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent any lingering moisture. If your edges need sharpening, do so before storage to help prevent rust.
2. Wax and tune your skis or snowboard
Next, apply a generous coat of hot wax to the base. This will protect your skis and snowboard from drying out and prevent the edges from corroding.
Leave the wax on throughout the off-season and simply scrape it off before your first run next winter. A little off-season maintenance ensures your gear stays in top condition and is ready to hit the slopes when the snow returns.
For many skiers, the easiest option is to leave waxing and edge maintenance to the professionals. Visit any Christy Sports location and let us know if you need an end-of-season tuning. Our full-tune package includes a flat grind, stone grind, base work, edges, and wax, so your gear will be ready for opening day.
3. Store your gear in a dry, cool place
Once your gear is cleaned and waxed, it's time to store it for the off-season. Find a dry, cool place to store your equipment, such as a closet, basement, or climate-controlled garage. Avoid storing your gear in a damp or humid environment, leading to mold or mildew growth.
If you are strapping your skis together, do not strap them too tightly to avoid changing their natural shape and compressing the camber or rocker.
If space allows, store skis vertically. If they must be horizontal, ensure they are not under pressure or stacked with other heavy items. If you lean them against a wall, ensure they are not at an angle that could cause them to warp over time.
If you live in an area with significant seasonal changes, occasionally check your skis for signs of mold, mildew, or rust, especially if there's any unexpected moisture.
Additional Tips:
- Dehumidifier: If storing in a potentially damp area, consider using a dehumidifier.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can degrade materials over time.
4. Protect your equipment with a cover or a bag
There’s a healthy debate over storing your gear in a ski bag or out in the open. Some experts caution that they can trap moisture, while others argue they provide essential protection from dust, UV rays, and accidental damage. If you store your skis or snowboard in a bag, opt for one that offers breathability rather than being completely waterproof, which could trap moisture and lead to rust. Used correctly, a ski bag can help keep your gear in top shape while shielding it from environmental damage during the off-season.
5. Boot storage
Don’t overlook your boots when prepping for the off-season! Wipe off any dirt or salt buildup and make sure they are completely dry to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors. For extra freshness, place a dryer sheet or a bar of soap inside each boot to absorb moisture and keep them smelling clean. Store them in the same cool, dry, and dark place as your skis or snowboard, and buckle them up to maintain their shape and prevent warping. A little care now will ensure your boots are fresh and ready for your next adventure on the slopes.
Taking care of your ski and snowboard gear in the off-season is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following these tips, you can ensure your equipment is in tip-top shape for the next season. And before you hit the slopes again, always give your skis an annual check-up.
Whatever you do, don’t put off post-season care—neglecting your skis and snowboard can lead to rust and damage that will be far more costly to fix later. At a minimum, ensure your gear is thoroughly cleaned to prevent corrosion, and take a moment to inspect your bindings for any signs of wear, such as discolored or cracked plastic. Attention now will help extend the life of your gear and keep it performing at its best next season.
At Christy Sports, we’re here to help you make the most of every season—on and off the slopes. Whether you need expert tuning before storing your gear, top-tier equipment for those last spring runs, or the perfect layers for unpredictable mountain weather, we’ve got you covered. Stop by your local Christy Sports for a final tune-up, and rest easy knowing your gear will be in peak condition when winter returns.
5 tips for storing ski & snowboard gear in the off-season
The ski season may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about your gear until next winter. Storing your skis or snowboard properly isn’t just about organization—it’s essential for preventing rust, warping, and unnecessary wear that could impact your performance next season. A little off-season care now means you’ll be ready to hit the slopes the moment the first snow falls.
To help you protect your investment, we’ve gathered top tips from our expert technicians on the best ways to clean, store, and maintain your ski and snowboard gear during the off-season.
Why is off-season care important?
First and foremost, taking care of your gear in the off-season can save you money in the long run. Properly storing your equipment can prevent damage from moisture, rust, and other environmental factors that can lead to costly repairs or even full replacement.
Additionally, taking care of your gear in the off-season can help improve its performance on the mountain. Maintaining your skis or snowboard ensures they're in optimal condition for the next season, providing better control, stability, and overall enjoyment.
How to take care of your gear in the off-season:
1. Clean your equipment thoroughly
Properly storing your skis for the off-season starts with a thorough cleaning. Brush off dirt or debris, then wash the skis with a mild soap and water solution. Pay close attention to the base, edges, and top sheet, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.
Once clean, dry them thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent any lingering moisture. If your edges need sharpening, do so before storage to help prevent rust.
2. Wax and tune your skis or snowboard
Next, apply a generous coat of hot wax to the base. This will protect your skis and snowboard from drying out and prevent the edges from corroding.
Leave the wax on throughout the off-season and simply scrape it off before your first run next winter. A little off-season maintenance ensures your gear stays in top condition and is ready to hit the slopes when the snow returns.
For many skiers, the easiest option is to leave waxing and edge maintenance to the professionals. Visit any Christy Sports location and let us know if you need an end-of-season tuning. Our full-tune package includes a flat grind, stone grind, base work, edges, and wax, so your gear will be ready for opening day.
3. Store your gear in a dry, cool place
Once your gear is cleaned and waxed, it's time to store it for the off-season. Find a dry, cool place to store your equipment, such as a closet, basement, or climate-controlled garage. Avoid storing your gear in a damp or humid environment, leading to mold or mildew growth.
If you are strapping your skis together, do not strap them too tightly to avoid changing their natural shape and compressing the camber or rocker.
If space allows, store skis vertically. If they must be horizontal, ensure they are not under pressure or stacked with other heavy items. If you lean them against a wall, ensure they are not at an angle that could cause them to warp over time.
If you live in an area with significant seasonal changes, occasionally check your skis for signs of mold, mildew, or rust, especially if there's any unexpected moisture.
Additional Tips:
- Dehumidifier: If storing in a potentially damp area, consider using a dehumidifier.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can degrade materials over time.
4. Protect your equipment with a cover or a bag
There’s a healthy debate over storing your gear in a ski bag or out in the open. Some experts caution that they can trap moisture, while others argue they provide essential protection from dust, UV rays, and accidental damage. If you store your skis or snowboard in a bag, opt for one that offers breathability rather than being completely waterproof, which could trap moisture and lead to rust. Used correctly, a ski bag can help keep your gear in top shape while shielding it from environmental damage during the off-season.
5. Boot storage
Don’t overlook your boots when prepping for the off-season! Wipe off any dirt or salt buildup and make sure they are completely dry to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors. For extra freshness, place a dryer sheet or a bar of soap inside each boot to absorb moisture and keep them smelling clean. Store them in the same cool, dry, and dark place as your skis or snowboard, and buckle them up to maintain their shape and prevent warping. A little care now will ensure your boots are fresh and ready for your next adventure on the slopes.
Taking care of your ski and snowboard gear in the off-season is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following these tips, you can ensure your equipment is in tip-top shape for the next season. And before you hit the slopes again, always give your skis an annual check-up.
Whatever you do, don’t put off post-season care—neglecting your skis and snowboard can lead to rust and damage that will be far more costly to fix later. At a minimum, ensure your gear is thoroughly cleaned to prevent corrosion, and take a moment to inspect your bindings for any signs of wear, such as discolored or cracked plastic. Attention now will help extend the life of your gear and keep it performing at its best next season.
At Christy Sports, we’re here to help you make the most of every season—on and off the slopes. Whether you need expert tuning before storing your gear, top-tier equipment for those last spring runs, or the perfect layers for unpredictable mountain weather, we’ve got you covered. Stop by your local Christy Sports for a final tune-up, and rest easy knowing your gear will be in peak condition when winter returns.
