Ski Wax Instructions

While a slow pace down a ski run might be attributed to your skiing skills, there’s also the possibility that the skis simply need a good wax. Waxing skis is important for good ski care and maintenance, and ideally should be done before every ski trip. The more you use your skis, the more the protective layer of wax will wear down and leave the base material to dry out. Waxing will protect the skis’ surface and provide a faster, smoother ride.

Things You'll Need

  • Sturdy, flat working space
  • Vise
  • Base cleaner
  • Clean cloth or rag
  • Ski wax
  • Ski waxing iron
  • Plastic scraper
  • Nylon brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Clamp one ski securely in the vise in your working space. This will hold the ski steady as you wax it. Open a window to let out any harmful fumes from the melting wax.

    • 2

      Apply base cleaner to a cloth and wipe it up and down the length of the ski. Use a natural cleaner because chemical-based cleaners can damage the ski’s surface. Let the ski dry for five minutes.

    • 3

      Turn on the iron and set it to the melting temperature called for on the wax container or package. If no temperature is listed, set the iron to between 115 and 125 degrees. The goal is to melt the wax without it smoking or burning. Let the iron heat for at least 10 minutes.

    • 4

      Hold the iron above the ski with one hand. With the other hand, press the block of wax against the heated iron and let drops of wax run down the iron and drip onto the ski. Move up and down the length of the ski, leaving dots of wax on the whole surface. Three passes is usually sufficient.

    • 5

      Put the iron directly on the ski and run it smoothly up and down the ski, melting all the wax dots together to create an insulated layer. Keep the iron moving, and work quickly so one area doesn’t get too hot. Let the ski cool for 15 to 20 minutes.

    • 6

      Scrape the plastic scraper against the ski to remove any excess wax. You can also use the scraper to remove any wax that got on the edges of the ski. Use a nylon brush to put a sheen on the ski and to remove any larger wax particles. The ski should be left with a thin, smooth layer of wax.