Ski Tuning, Part 3: Waxing strategies explained

In the third episode of a four-part series on home ski tuning technique, Matt Hupperts of the Edgeworks discusses waxing strategies. Ski waxes vary wildly in price, from $15 for basic waxes to over $100 for performance waxes. While those high-priced waxes may seem like an indulgence, for skiers looking...

By Candace Horgan

January 27, 2010

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In the third episode of a four-part series on home ski tuning technique, Matt Hupperts of the Edgeworks discusses waxing strategies. Ski waxes vary wildly in price, from $15 for basic waxes to over $100 for performance waxes. While those high-priced waxes may seem like an indulgence, for skiers looking for that extra edge, it's worth it. How do you decide what wax you need for your skis?

Skis glide on a thin layer of water created by pressure of the ski on the snow, and the wax used on the ski helps boost the speed. In warmer temperatures, you need a wax that helps move all that water out of the way, while in colder temperatures, you need something that will work on thinner layers of water.

For those who want the best performance out of their skis, it is not unheard of to wax every time you hit the slopes. Picking out a wax that will work for the expected temperature will mean the difference between a good day and a bad day. Pick the wrong wax and it may feel like your skis are coated with sandpaper.

In addition to hot waxes, several crayon-on waxes are available that can be used at the slopes if your skis feel sticky.

Candace Horgan

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