Cross country skiing is a great way to get out and enjoy the Winnipeg winter weather. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, proper care of your equipment is essential to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience on the trails. Here are some tips for taking care of your cross country skis:
1 Keep your skis clean and dry: After each ski session, be sure to clean and dry your skis thoroughly. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the skis. Wipe the excess snow off, that way as you’re wiping it gives you a chance to glance over your ski for damage.
2 Store your skis properly: When you’re not using them, it’s important to store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your skis in damp basements or garages. Storing your skis damp could rust the bindings, as well as affect your enjoyment of using them on the next adventure since they won’t have time to dry properly. Instead, consider investing in a ski rack or storing your skis in a closet or other dry, temperature-controlled space.
3 Protect your skis from UV light: Sunlight can be damaging to your skis, mainly if they are left outside for extended periods of time. To protect your skis from the sun’s UV rays, consider covering them with a ski bag or storing them in a ski rack that is out of direct sunlight.
4 Keep your skis waxed: Regularly waxing your skis will help to keep them in good condition and improve their performance. There are many different types of ski wax available, so be sure to choose one that is suitable for the type of snow and temperature conditions you’ll be skiing in. In the store, we offer a wax service using a fantastic system by Ulla. Their waxes are incredible and long-lasting. You could use glide-on or spray-on ski wax in between waxing if you find your skis need a quick touch-up.
5 If you have skin skis: use a nylon brush to clean dirt and debris from the skin. Occasionally you should apply Skin Care by Swix. On cold fresh snow, you shouldn’t need to clean your skins. However later in the season as that snow becomes crusty and dirty it’s best to clean your skins when they start to appear visibly dirty.
By following these simple tips, you can help to extend the life of your cross country skis and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience on the trails. So be sure to take good care of your skis and happy skiing!