The Essential Guide to Storing Your Snowboard and Skis: Protect Your Investment
When the snow melts and the season winds down, how you store your snowboard and skis can mean the difference between gear that performs like new next winter and equipment that's degraded, damaged, or unsafe. Proper off-season storage isn't just about tidying up—it's about protecting your investment and ensuring peak performance when you're back on the mountain.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Prevent Edge Rust and Corrosion
Moisture is the enemy of metal edges. Even a small amount of humidity can cause rust to form on your edges, dulling them and compromising their grip on hard-packed snow and ice. Rusty edges require more aggressive tuning, which removes material and shortens the lifespan of your gear.
Protect Your Base
Ski and snowboard bases are made from porous materials that can dry out and oxidize when exposed to air and UV light. A dried-out base won't glide efficiently and becomes more susceptible to damage. Proper waxing and storage keep the base hydrated and ready to perform.
Maintain Structural Integrity
Improper storage—like leaning boards against a wall or stacking heavy items on top—can cause warping, camber loss, or delamination. These structural issues affect how your gear rides and can be expensive or impossible to repair.
Extend Equipment Life
Quality snowboards and skis represent a significant investment. With proper care and storage, your gear can deliver consistent performance for years, maximizing your return and reducing the need for premature replacements.
Pre-Storage Preparation: The Critical First Step
Before you put your gear away, take these essential steps:
1. Clean Thoroughly
Remove all dirt, salt, and debris from bases, edges, and bindings. Use a base cleaner or mild soap and water, then dry completely. Any moisture left on the equipment can lead to rust and corrosion during storage.
2. Inspect for Damage
Check for core shots, edge damage, cracks, or delamination. Address repairs now rather than discovering problems when the first snow falls. Minor base damage can worsen over time if left untreated.
3. Tune and Wax
Get a professional tune or do it yourself: sharpen edges, repair the base, and apply a thick storage wax. The storage wax creates a protective barrier that prevents oxidation and keeps the base material from drying out. Don't scrape this wax off—leave it on until next season.
4. Loosen Bindings
Release tension on bindings to prevent the springs from weakening over time. This simple step helps maintain proper release function for safety.
Optimal Storage Conditions
Temperature and Humidity
Store your gear in a cool, dry place with stable temperature and low humidity. Avoid attics (too hot), basements (often damp), and garages (temperature fluctuations). A climate-controlled closet or storage room is ideal.
Position Matters
Store boards horizontally on a rack or wall mount designed for skis and snowboards. Avoid leaning them vertically for extended periods, as this can cause warping. Never stack heavy items on top of your gear.
Light Protection
Keep equipment away from direct sunlight and UV exposure, which can degrade materials and graphics over time. A board bag or storage rack in a dark closet works well.
The Right Storage Solutions
Investing in proper storage systems pays dividends. Wall-mounted racks keep boards off the ground and properly supported, while also maximizing floor space. Dedicated ski and snowboard bags offer protection from dust, moisture, and UV light—especially useful if your storage area isn't ideal.
For serious enthusiasts with multiple boards or skis, modular storage systems allow you to organize your entire quiver efficiently. Look for solutions that accommodate different lengths and widths while keeping everything accessible and protected.
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
• Storing wet gear: Always dry equipment completely before storage
• Skipping the storage wax: Unwaxed bases will oxidize and dry out
• Leaving bindings tight: This weakens springs and affects safety
• Vertical storage without support: Can cause warping and camber loss
• Damp environments: Leads to rust, corrosion, and mold
• Extreme temperatures: Can damage adhesives and materials
When Next Season Arrives
Before your first run, scrape off the storage wax, apply fresh wax appropriate for current conditions, and inspect bindings for proper function. A quick tune-up ensures you're starting the season with gear that's ready to perform.
The Bottom Line
Proper storage is an investment in performance, safety, and longevity. Spending an hour at the end of the season to clean, tune, wax, and properly store your snowboard and skis protects hundreds or thousands of dollars in equipment and ensures you're ready to ride when the snow returns.
Your gear works hard on the mountain—give it the care it deserves during the off-season, and it will reward you with seasons of reliable performance.