When the lifts stop spinning, your gear doesn’t just get tossed in the garage and forgotten. How you store skis and snowboards during the off-season has a direct impact on how they feel when winter returns.

If you’ve ever pulled your gear out in November only to find dry bases, rusty edges, or bindings that feel off, you already know it matters. The good news is that proper storage doesn’t take much time, just a bit of intention that is!

This guide breaks down how to store skis and snowboards so they’re ready to go when the first snow hits.

1. Start With a Proper Clean

Before anything gets stored, the first step in how to store skis and snowboards properly is giving them a quick clean. Wipe down the topsheets and bases to remove dirt, grime, and leftover moisture from the season. Even small amounts of dirt or salt can cause long-term wear if left sitting all summer, so a simple wipe-down goes a long way in keeping everything in good shape.

2. Dry Everything Fully

Moisture is the main thing you want to avoid during storage. Make sure your gear is completely dry. Especially around edges, bindings, and mounting points.

If you store skis or snowboards while they’re still damp, you’re more likely to see rust forming on the edges by the time fall rolls around.

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

One of the best things you can do is apply a layer of wax to the base and leave it on.

This “storage wax,” as we call it, protects the base from drying out and helps prevent oxidation. When next season comes around, you can scrape and tune as needed, but for now, think of it as a protective layer.

4. Loosen Bindings Slightly

You don’t need to adjust your setup fully, but backing off the DIN settings slightly on ski bindings can help relieve long-term tension on the springs. For snowboards, just make sure bindings are secure and not under unnecessary stress.

5. Choose the Right Storage Spot

Where you store your gear matters just as much as how. Avoid places with:

• High humidity (like damp basements)
• Extreme heat (like garages in peak summer
• Direct sunlight

Instead, aim for a cool, dry, and consistent environment. Inside storage is almost always the safest bet.

6. Store Them Properly

Skis can be stored vertically or horizontally, as long as they’re not under pressure or bending unnaturally. Snowboards should be stored flat or upright in a way that doesn’t stress the board. This is a key part of how to store skis and snowboards properly

And yes, leaning them in a corner works… just make sure they’re not slowly warping under a pile of other gear.

7. Consider a Tune Before or After Storage

Some riders prefer to tune their gear before storing it, while others wait until fall. Either works as long as it gets done.

If your edges are already rough or your base has taken a beating, getting it sorted before storage can prevent issues from sitting all summer. At Ski West, our professional tuning services can help get everything prepped properly so you’re not starting next season playing catch-up!

Set Yourself Up for Next Season

Taking a little time now makes a big difference later. When your gear is stored properly, you’ll prevent unnecessary surprises when you’re ready to get back on snow. And if this season made you realize it might be time for an upgrade, spring and summer are great times to start looking.

At Ski West, you’ll find a curated selection of skis, snowboards, and gear from brands that are built to perform. All backed by a team that rides often and can help you find what works for you.

Get it dialled now, so when next season starts, you’ll be set up from the jump and getting your drops in smoothly!