Follow these simple steps to store your skis and snowboard properly—and keep them in top condition for next season.

1. Clean Your Skis or Snowboard

Before storing your gear:

• Wipe down the base and topsheet
• Remove dirt, salt, and debris
• Dry thoroughly to prevent rust

This is essential for long-term ski and snowboard maintenance.

Top tip: Don’t leave wet skis or board zipped up in their bag overnight.

2. Repair Base and Edge Damage

Check for:

• Deep scratches or gouges
• Edge damage or rust spots

Fixing issues now prevents further damage while your gear is in storage.

3. Apply Storage Wax (Don’t Scrape It Off)

One of the most important steps in ski storage:

• Apply a thick layer of wax to the base
• Leave it un-scraped over summer

Storage wax protects the base from drying out and prevents edge corrosion.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

The best place to store skis or a snowboard is:

• Indoors
• Dry and well-ventilated
• Away from heat and humidity

Avoid garages, damp basements, or attics with temperature extremes.

Store Skis and Snowboards Correctly

Store vertically or flat. Avoid pressure or tight clamping. Keep them stable to prevent warping.

Make sure:

• They’re not resting heavily on tips or tails
• They’re not wedged under constant pressure

Light support is fine — stress isn’t.

Don’t Forget Ski Boots

Proper ski boot storage matters too:

• Store in a cool, dry space
• Dry liners completely
• Buckle boots loosely

Store Touring Skins Properly (If Applicable)

For touring gear:

• Use skin savers to protect glue
• Dry skins fully
• Store in a cool environment

Prepare for Next Season

When winter returns:

• Scrape off storage wax
• Check bindings and edges
• Consider a professional tune

Conclusion: Protect Your Gear, Save Money

Taking time to store your skis and snowboard properly will extend their lifespan, maintain performance, and save money on repairs.

A simple routine now means your gear is ready to go when the next ski season starts.

Planning ahead for next winter in the Alps?

Taking care of your gear now means one less thing to worry about when it’s time to hit the slopes again. Got questions about storing your skis or snowboard? Here are the most common ones answered.

Q. Should I wax my skis before storing them?

A: Yes—always apply a layer of storage wax before putting skis away for summer. Leave the wax un-scraped to protect the base from drying out and the edges from rusting.

Q. Can I store skis in the garage?

A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Garages often have temperature swings and moisture, which can damage edges and bases. A cool, dry indoor space is much better for long-term ski storage.

Q. Is it OK to store skis vertically?

A: Yes. Skis can be stored vertically or flat, as long as they’re stable and not under pressure. Avoid awkward angles or tight clamping that could cause stress over time.

Q. Do snowboards need storage wax too?

A: Absolutely. Snowboards benefit from storage wax in the same way as skis. Apply a thick coat and leave it on until the next season.

Q. How do I stop ski edges from rusting?

A: Dry your skis thoroughly after cleaning and apply storage wax over the edges. Keeping them in a dry environment is just as important as waxing.

Q. Can I leave my skis unwaxed over summer?

A. You can—but it’s a mistake. Unwaxed skis are more likely to dry out and oxidise, which affects performance and can shorten their lifespan.

Q. Do I need to get my skis serviced before storing them?

A: If there’s damage (deep scratches or edge issues), yes—repair it before storage. Otherwise, a full service can wait until the start of next season.

Q. How long can skis or snowboards be stored safely?

A: Indefinitely—if stored correctly. With proper cleaning, waxing, and dry conditions, your gear will be in excellent shape even after many months.

Looking ahead to next season? Browse chalets and apartments across the Alps and start planning your next ski holiday early. Your future self will thank you.