Off season storage is extremely important and can make your equipment last and perform longer. Follow these tips to help you protect your investment and get the best performance out of your gear.
DON’T store your skis and snowboards for the summer without proper preparation.
DO have your skis and snowboards cleaned and tuned at the end of the season so all the salt and dirt is gone and a fresh coat of wax is applied to protect your bases and edges. Have your local specialty ski / snowboard shop do this or you can do it yourself. Reference our blog article: http://alpineaccessories.wordpress.com/category/ski-tuning-equipment/ to do it yourself.
1)Skis should be tuned BEFORE storing for the summer. This way your bases are clean and waxed for the absolute best protection from the summer humidity.
2)Store your skis standing upright in a rack in a dry area. Do NOT store skis or boards hanging from their tips in a rack over the summer as this can harm the tips. Basements are fine if a dehumidifier is present or basement is dry.
3)Bindings should be cleaned of all dirt, salt and grime with water. Ski binding heels should be in the open position. DO NOT REDUCE the tension on ski bindings.
4)Boots should be cleaned thoroughly and liners should be completely dry. Then store your boots with soles flat on a shelf or floor. Buckles should be buckled and laces should be laced. A loose fitting plastic grocery bag can be put over your boots to keep out dust.
5)NEVER store your gear in a ski or boot bag. Nylon luggage and bags are designed to keep out moisture when transporting. But they also keep in moisture when storing. This allows edges to rust and boots to mildew. DO store your freshly tuned skis and snowboards in an interior closet standing upright. Skis can be stored under a bed on their sides.
DON’T store your equipment in your bags, garage or your basement. Humidity is bad for your edges and bindings and the heat can dry your bases.
DON’T FORGET to charge your lithium ion batteries during the summer for your heated gloves and your boot heaters. We recommend Memorial & Labor Day weekend.
Follow these guidelines and you will get extra years and better performance from your equipment.
