The only thing worse than the ski and snowboard season ending is the ski and snowboard beginning and not being able to enjoy it because your gear was stored improperly during the offseason.
The team at ASO Mammoth wants to save as many people from this cruel tragedy as possible, so we’ve combined our best tips for caring for and storing gear at the end of the season into one simple list. At the end of the day everyone has a different method they swear by to protect their winter gear, but these basic tips are sure to keep your gear ready for the beginning of next season.
If you have any questions about how to protect your ski and snowboard gear, stop by ASO Mammoth to see how we protect the best ski and snowboard gear on Mammoth Mountain!
Snowboards and Skis
Your snowboard or skis are the most important gear on this list, and they’re also the easiest to care for at the end of the season.
After you’ve done a solid wipe down to remove all the dirt and salt that has built up over the season, you’ll want to do basic maintenance. Make repairs to your gear if necessary, and then take it to your local shop, or your garage if you can do it on your own, to sharpen the edges and wax your base. The most important step is to add extra wax, about two or three times the normal amount, and then leave the wax on after it’s hardened. Doing so will protect your base all year long, and when you’re ready for the first day of next season all you’ll need to do is buff off the wax and you’ll be ready to ride.
For storage, the most important thing is that you store your gear somewhere dry and climate-controlled. Moisture can rust your edges, so avoid storing your gear in a ski bag that could still be wet from your last trip and make sure your gear is in no danger of falling or being fallen on!
Boots
Like your skis or snowboard, you’ll want to clean your boots off and then keep them dry.
For example, after (or before) you’ve done a scrub down of the outside of your boots remove the liners and let them dry. You can even rinse your liners with water and detergent but be careful not to warm them too much, especially if they’re thermoformed for your foot as they could lose their shape.
Once your boots are clean and dry and your liners are back inside, the last step is to close all the boot buckles and tighten the laces to help your boot keep its shape over the offseason. Once your boots are clean, dry, and in shape, keep them that way by storing them in a protective bag. There are excellent boot bags you can purchase, but if you’re pinched for time or money you can get creative with some duct tape and a shopping bag. However you store them, make sure you keep water and any curious critters out of your boots.
Outerwear
There are many differing opinions on how you should wash your outerwear.
No matter what side you’re on, everyone can agree that you should at least scrub off the dirt and grime that has built up over the season and remove everything from your pockets. It doesn’t matter if it’s leftover food or trail maps, remove all loose items that could attract moisture or bugs.
If you do wash your outerwear gear always check the tags for washing and drying instructions. Next, use a soap designed to protect the waterproofing or strengthen the waterproofing on your gear. Whatever you do, make sure your gear is completely dry before you store it for the offseason.