Summer Storage Tips

Winter is over. There, I said it. With the exception of a very small minority of hard chargers who are still finding lines to ski way up and out there somewhere, it’s time to hang up the goggles for another year. I say this metaphorically, however: there’s a right way and a wrong way to pack up your toys and stash them away for six months. Proper summer storage habits and techniques can go a long way in preserving the life of your winter gear.

1. Wash EVERYTHING

Don’t tell me your skis/board, boots and clothes aren’t caked in mud from late-season missions. Even if you don’t think stuff’s dirty, it is. Plus, when the snow starts to fly once again, it’s so nice to pull out fresh, clean gear as opposed to stale, stinky, dusty reminders of how lazy you were in wrapping up last year’s season. Wipe down your hard gear with warm water and a damp cloth, and be sure to avoid soaps and detergents as they can mess with the lubricants in your bindings. As for your waterproof breathables, read the manufacturer’s instructions on the labels but it’s generally advised to wash in warm water with a powder detergent free from bleach or fabric softener. Keep in mind other fabrics that may need special care as well, such as down, wool or silk. Front loading machines are easier on the garments’ zippers, toggles, etc. so if you have access to one, so much the better. Rinse twice to get rid of all detergent residue and, if your gear is aging or delaminating, spray with a waterproof sealant and, in any case, dry thoroughly before storing.

2. Tune ’em up

Obviously, these are the priority in terms of investment protection. General wear and tear is to be expected (and encouraged!) but deterioration due to neglect is no way to thank the equipment that brought you so many good times and high fives all winter long. Show your gear you’re committed and serious with a full tune up at the end of the season, either at your local ski shop or DIY in the garage. Now is the time for a number of reasons. For starters, everyone else in town will be competing for the ski techs’ attention come fall, so it’s wise to jump the queue by a few months. Second, a good coat of soft wax will keep your bases from drying out and collecting grime throughout the summer. Come November, you will have but two jobs: scrape your bases and brag about how smart/responsible you are.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRaGvFxtVB4

3. Take inventory

No doubt, you broke, lost or modified at least one piece of gear this past winter. Make a note of it or, better yet, get it fixed/replaced for next season while things are on sale. It’s a terrible time to sell used gear, but it’s a great time to buy!

4. Wrap it up

Even a bit of fabric will attract mice and mold, so be sure to store your soft gear in a sealed bag or container over the summer. This includes boot liners, goggles and even helmets. Keep everything in a cool, dry place, and avoid storing skis/boards in a way that distributes pressure unevenly (like leaning up against something or hanging from a rack). Some people go so far as to loosen bindings and DIN settings during the off-season but, if you do, maybe put a sticky note or something on there so you don’t forget to reset them come winter.

5. Surf’s up

Kick back and relax knowing your beloved winter gear is tucked away safe and sound. You’re on it. Well done.