How to store your ski gear this summer

Rust, fungus, nesting mice – you can avoid them all if you follow our simple guide to storing your ski gear for summer

Do you have the ultimate storage routine for your beloved ski rig, or do you just throw it all in there, shut the door and hope for the best? For those of you who fall into the first category, bravo. For the rest of you, here is a quick guide to smart storage that could save you some pennies next season.

Skis

Take the release setting down to the lowest level for summer storage |Photo Chrigl Luthy
Take the release setting down to the lowest level for summer storage |Photo Chrigl Luthy

1. Flush skis and bindings with fresh water, air dry in the sun.

2. Stone edges to remove burrs and rust. Sharpen with file so they are razor smooth and ready to rip next winter.

3. Scrape any remaining wax from your bases, then clean with a base cleaner or citrus solvent (available at many ski shops, or online).

4. Apply a liberal coat of wax to bases using a hot iron (check out our guide in issue 111). No need to scrape skis; simply let the bases soak for the summer.

5. Strap skis together and store in a dry, moderate temperature environment out of direct sunlight.

Boots

Wipe down your boot before storing | Photo Chrigl Luthy
Wipe down your boot before storing | Photo Chrigl Luthy

1. Wipe down with fresh water, getting underneath the buckles. Dry with a cloth.

2. Remove boot liners from shells. It allows boots to properly dry and prevents unwanted fungus or nesting mice.

3. Buckle the shell. We find the plastic has a high memory, and will try to straighten out without tension.

Other gear

Remove your transceiver batteries (but remember to replace them come winter!) |Photo Chrigl Luthy
Remove your transceiver batteries (but remember to replace them come winter!) |Photo Chrigl Luthy

Poles: Take apart any adjustable ski poles, make sure water isn’t trapped in them, and do any lubricating recommended by the manufacturer.

Probe: Dry your probe out as well. We had one where the cable corroded inside.

Transceiver: Take your beacon batteries out!

Gear: Take the time to sew things that have become frayed (like glove fingers) – you’ll never find the time next season. Bin stuff you’ll never wear again (though, not the classic stuff like 200cm skis, anything neon, one-pieces or vintage shades. You’ll live to regret it).

What next?

Sit down and have a good cry. It doesn’t really help your gear, but it should make you feel a lot better, until your mate comes up and pats you on the head, saying “don’t worry little critter, November is just around the corner.” When you know it isn’t at all.