How to Texture Skis

Cross-country skiers understand that getting the proper wax onto bases of skis is equal parts science and art. The science comes in the waxes themselves, produced by labs that specialize in snow and the kinetics of skiing. The art comes from understanding how to texture the ski base with two or more different waxes to provide kick on days with ever-changing weather. Learning what wax to use comes with experience. Texturing is the hard skill that accompanies the experience and snow-condition wisdom.

Things You'll Need

  • Variety of ski waxes for varying temperatures
  • Cork
  • Scraper
  • Horsehair brush
  • Workbench or flat surface
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine temperature, snow conditions and terrain for your day of skiing. Choose the appropriate waxes for the expected temperature range. For example, if you have a current temperature of 5 degrees Fahrenheit and the forecast calls for temperatures rising to 30 degrees, select waxes rated for the range of conditions. If you plan to climb and expect many hills, select waxes rated slightly warmer than the conditions projected for the day.

    • 2

      Set the skis on a workbench or flat surface. Scrape off the old wax with the scraper.

    • 3

      Apply your coldest wax to the kick zone on the base of the ski, typically between the toe-end of the binding and extending six to eight inches behind the heel. Use the wax like a crayon.

    • 4

      Cork down the first layer to create heat-friction and set the wax. Move the cork up and down the base rapidly, generating heat.

    • 5

      Apply the next-warmer wax, but don't extend all the way from the toe to behind the heel. Cover two inches from each end of the first wax layer. Run the cork over the wax once or twice, but do not over-cork.

    • 6

      Carry the next-warmer wax in your pocket and keep it with you. As the temperatures and conditions change during the day, stop and apply a small layer of the warmer wax, again covering short of the prior layer. Do not cork until you try gliding and kicking for at least half a mile. If you're getting little glide, apply the cork two to three times for heat friction.