Why Do You Need to Wax Skis?

Skiing is a winter sport that has been around since the B.C. era, originating in present-day Norway and Sweden. It has been one of the fastest growing sports, recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and giving rise to the International Ski Federation (FIS) and the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association. One of the most important aspects in skiing is waxing, a process that started in the 1860s in California. There are different types of wax to use and various techniques to ensure the best performance from your skis.

  1. Why wax your skis?

    • Like any piece of equipment, skis endure wear and tear the more you use them. The key reasons to regularly wax skis are (1) to provide a smoother and faster ride, (2) to protect the base of your skis, and (3) and to help the skis last longer. If you don't wax, scratches from ice patches or carving turns may result in a rougher and slower ride. In addition, skis become dried out when sitting in storage during the non-skiing season, but waxing increases moisture and brings back the smoothness necessary for a good ride.

    How often should you wax skis?

    • If you ski about three times per season, just one waxing before your first trip should be sufficient. However, if you live near ski areas and go skiing about once a week, waxing every five to six trips is about right. For competitive skiers and those who enjoy more intense back-country skiing and downhill racing, waxing before each trip or every other trip may be necessary.

    What kind of wax is used for skis?

    • Ski wax is available in two categories: glide and grip. Glide wax, which is more common, is used mostly with nordic skis, alpine skis, and snowboards. The type of glide wax you select depends on the general temperature and humidity of the snow where you're skiing.
      Grip wax, which is further divided into kick wax and klister wax, is common in cross-country skiing. Kick wax is generally used with newer snow, and klister wax, which is a more difficult application, is used for icy conditions. Both are meant to give the skis traction with the snow.

    How do you wax your skis?

    • There are a number of methods for waxing your skis. If you don't feel comfortable waxing your own skis or lack the necessary tools, most ski rental and repair shops offer the service.
      Before you apply new wax, you must use a specialized wax remover.
      GLIDE WAX: There are three general methods to apply the new wax once the old wax and any debris are removed.
      1) Hot waxing: This method usually results in the best performance. Wax is first heated on an iron. Then it is glided onto the bottom of the ski and left to cool down. After the wax is cool, scrape off any excess wax.
      2) Paste waxing: This method is similar to hot waxing, but more expensive. You apply a wax-like paste to the whole base of the ski. Then you use a cork to increase the smoothness, followed by scraping away the excess wax.
      3) Rub-on waxing: This is the simplest technique, and most common in ski repair shops. The wax can be rubbed on and gradually smoothed out, or pasted, sprayed, or liquefied on the base and smoothed out in the same process.
      GRIP WAX:
      1) Kick wax: To apply kick wax, use the same technique as rub-on waxing. Kick wax comes in hard, liquid paste, or tape form.
      (2) Kister wax: To apply this type of wax, use a paddle or your thumb. Kister wax comes in a tube or a spray can, and is best applied at warmer than room temperature conditions.