Updated August 22, 2025
Is your ski season wrapping up? Are you shifting your focus to trail running, hiking, climbing, or mountain biking?
Sad isn’t it?
But before you switch fully into summer mode, take some time to give your ski gear the TLC it deserves. Proper end-of-season care will help you avoid nasty surprises next winter and extend the life of your equipment.
1. Prepping Your Skis and Bindings for Storage
End-of-season is the perfect time for a bit of ski maintenance. Follow these steps:
Inspect for damage
Check your skis and bindings for cracks, deep scratches, or any other signs of weakness. If you’re unsure, have a professional take a look.Check bases and edges
If you see core shots, edge damage, or large scratches, get a full tune-up: base grind, edge sharpening, and wax.Clean the bases
Use a brass brush to remove dirt. If extra dirty, wipe with a base cleaner.Apply a protective wax coat
Use a universal wax and a waxing iron. Apply generously to nourish and protect the base.
Pro tip: Scrape only the edges to prevent rust leave the wax on the base until next winter.Topside care
Wipe down the tops and bindings with a cloth. Apply liquid wax to protect from humidity (optional).Bindings
Alpine and touring bindings usually need no special care. You can loosen the DIN setting (and remember to reset next season). Leave lubrication to a pro.Ski poles
Store with skis in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from sun and dust. Avoid sealed waterproof bags they can trap moisture.Climbing skins
Make sure they’re fully dry. Store them with skin saver netting inside their bag.
2. Storing Your Ski Boots
Moisture is the enemy. Here’s how to protect your boots:
Remove liners and footbeds. Let them dry for 24–48 hours, away from direct heat or sunlight. Use your ski boot dryer if you have one.
If they smell, spray with disinfectant and air dry completely.
Wipe down the shell with a damp cloth.
Check buckles, shells, and soles for wear.
Reassemble when dry and lightly buckle to maintain shape.
Store in a dry, ventilated area never on damp garage floors.
On-ski-trip tip:
After each day, remove liners and footbeds to dry. Buckle the shells loosely. Avoid placing near radiators or fires excessive heat will ruin their fit.
3. Cleaning and Storing Your Ski Clothing
Wash one last time
Follow care instructions for jackets, pants and gloves.Goggles
Store in their protective bag to prevent scratches.Storage
Keep clothing in a closet or garment bag. Avoid compression bags they save space but can damage insulation.
4. Storing Safety Equipment
Even in summer, your safety gear needs care:
Avalanche transceiver – Remove batteries before storage. Use summer downtime to get it checked at a shop or by the manufacturer.
Avalanche airbag – Have it inspected and deactivated according to manufacturer guidelines.
First aid kit – Adapt contents for your summer activities instead of storing away.
Helmet and body armor – Inspect for damage and store with your ski clothes.
Final Tip
Take care of your gear now and you’ll be ready next season… without last-minute fixes cutting into your powder days.
Have a great summer!
