Whether snowboard or skis – winter sports equipment is part of the standard equipment of almost all Austrians for good reason. What could be better than gliding down snow-covered slopes on two skis and enjoying the impressive nature of this country to the full?
However, careful care and ski storage are essential for long-term enjoyment. This not only saves you a lot of money, but also protects your health. Store your equipment properly so that it serves you faithfully for many winter seasons.
After the last descent of the season and successfully avoiding the dangerously placed umbrella bar next to the parking lot, it’s time to think about ski storage. To avoid any nasty surprises at the start of the next ski season, we have summarized the most important tips and tricks for the correct storage of winter equipment for you.
Tips for storing skis
Prevent rust on skis and snowboards
One of the biggest dangers when storing skis is the accumulation of rust. The unprotected edges of snowboards and skis are particularly susceptible to this, but parts of the binding can also be affected. After the last use, it is therefore particularly important to remove all snow residue and dry the equipment thoroughly.
It is also advisable to treat the edges with an edge grinder, as small amounts of rust often accumulate during the ski season and can spread undisturbed over the summer months. A binding spray also protects against oxidation and corrosion and offers extra safety.
A little tip: close the bindings of skis and snowboards if you are storing them long-term to maintain their functionality. That way, you’ll be well prepared for the next ski season!
Repairing the ski equipment coating
After intensive use during the winter months, scratches and dents in the base of your ski equipment are almost inevitable. To ensure that your equipment is ready for use at the start of the next season, it is advisable to repair these annoying signs of wear with hot wax before storing it.
If you leave this task to a professional, you will not only save time, but also higher costs and long waiting times at the start of the ski season. However, if you want to do it yourself despite your lack of experience, you can find a simple 10-minute guide here that shows you what to look out for when waxing your skis or snowboard. So you’ll be perfectly prepared for the next winter season!
The right storage space for skis
Once the edges, base and bindings have been prepared for the long summer months, it’s time to find the right place to store your equipment.
Ski storage in the cellar
Thinking about storing them in the cellar? Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations at all costs, as UV radiation damages the plastic in the long term and temperature fluctuations can lead to condensation and thus rust deposits. Note, however, that cellars can often be affected by high humidity. You should therefore check in advance whether your basement is suitable for storing skis and other metal-containing equipment.
Ski storage in the garage
Garage storage can be practical if you pay attention to a few important factors. Make sure the garage is dry and well ventilated to prevent rusting and moisture damage. Avoid direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations, which could damage the material of your skis. Proper storage, for example with special ski racks, ensures that your equipment remains well organized and ready for use at all times.
If neither your cellar nor garage offer the ideal conditions, attics or storage compartments from self-storage providers such as STORE ROOM are an excellent alternative. Benefit from secure and optimal storage solutions when there is a lack of space within your own four walls.
Cleaning and storing ski boots
Ski or snowboard boots should definitely be cleaned before storage, although this also depends a little on how often they are used. To do this, remove the inner boot from the shell and wash it in the washing machine using a mild detergent. Then stuff with newspaper and leave to dry for a few days. Drying over a radiator is not recommended as the material may become brittle. To store, put the inner shoe back into the shell and be sure to close the buckle. This ensures that the boot retains its optimum fit and that you can still enjoy skiing or snowboarding even after several years.
Storage of cross-country skis
The storage of cross-country skis requires special attention compared to conventional skis. Due to their longer and narrower design, cross-country skis are more susceptible to deformation, especially if they are stored incorrectly over a long period of time. It is important that the skis are kept dry and protected from moisture, as moisture can damage the material and cause rust. In addition, cross-country skis should be thoroughly cleaned and completely dried after use to remove dirt and snow residues that could damage the material. Storage in a cool, evenly tempered place without direct sunlight is ideal to maintain the performance and longevity of cross-country skis.
Storing your snowboard: what you need to consider
Snowboards are generally wider and flatter than skis, which means that they take up more space and may require a little more attention in storage. When storing snowboards, there are some specific aspects to consider that differ from the storage of conventional skis:
- Storage position: snowboards should ideally be stored flat and in a horizontal position to avoid deformation and tension in the material. If they are stored upright or at an angle, they can warp over time.
- Bindings: The bindings of the snowboard should be loosened or opened to reduce the tension on the materials. This prevents the board from warping or the bindings from being damaged during storage.
- Protection from damage: Snowboards should be stored in protective sleeves or bags to protect them from bumps, scratches and other mechanical damage. This is particularly important if several boards or other items are stored in the same storage area.
By keeping these points in mind, you can ensure that your snowboard is well protected and ready for the next season.
Store skis with smart self-storage
It’s frustrating to find your winter sports equipment after the summer months in a worse condition than before. However, with our summarized tips, you don’t have to worry about saying goodbye to your favorite leisure items for a few months – especially not if you rely on a secure storage unit from STORE ROOM that is accessible at all times.
Storing your skis at STORE ROOM offers numerous advantages:
- Your winter sports equipment is well protected in a secure, monitored storage compartment.
- Thanks to our flexible rental conditions and 24/7 access, you can access your equipment at any time.
- Our modern storage compartments offer optimal conditions to prevent rust and damage so that your skis and snowboards are always ready for use.
Do you have any other questions about seasonal storage? Check out one of our previous blogs for useful tips on Christmas tree baubles, garden furniture and more.