Snowboard Kit Care Tips
Proper snowboard maintenance is key to keeping your gear in top shape all season long and extending its lifespan for years to come. Regular upkeep—including tuning, waxing, and storage—enhances your ride's performance, improves safety, and helps you get the most out of your gear.
Benefits of Proper Snowboard Care
Enhanced Performance: A tuned board rides faster, carves smoother, and handles better in all conditions.
Increased Safety: Well-maintained gear reduces the risk of equipment failure and injury.
Extended Lifespan: Regular upkeep prevents damage that can shorten your board’s life.
Cost Savings: Routine maintenance is cheaper than major repairs or buying a new setup.
How to Maintain Your Snowboard Kit
1. Regular Inspection
Before each season—and regularly throughout—inspect your board, bindings, and boots for damage such as cracks, dents, loose screws, or delaminating layers. Catching small issues early helps avoid bigger problems later.
2. Edge Maintenance
Sharp, rust-free edges improve control and help you carve with confidence, especially on hardpack and icy conditions. Notice slipping on hardpack? Consider getting a tune up.
3. Waxing
Wax helps your board glide smoothly, prevents the base from drying out, and improves overall durability. Choose a wax based on snow temperature and conditions. Waxing frequency will vary based on use. In general, wax every few days of boarding, or more frequently in icy conditions or if you’re riding hard.
4. Binding Checks
Check that your bindings are secure and properly aligned with your stance. Loose or improperly adjusted bindings can lead to safety issues and potential damage.
Storage & Replacement Essentials
1. Proper Storage
Wipe down your board and bindings thoroughly after every ride. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture to prevent rust and sun damage.
2. Edge & Base Protection
Protect your edges with a board bag when transporting or storing your board.
3. Storage Waxing
Apply wax to the base before off-season storage. This protects the base from drying out.
4. Time to Replace?
If your board has deep core shots, damaged edges, or severe delamination, it might be time to replace it. Ask a local shop for a pro evaluation if you're unsure.
Caring for Your Snowboard Boots
Boots are the foundation of control and comfort. Check out a few steps to maintain them:
Riding: Never, and I mean never, rest your board on top of your boots! The edge of a snowboard should never touch the snowboard boot and edge damage is not covered under warranty. If you want to rest the weight of your board on the boot while riding a chairlift, you should instead hook the bottom edge of your heel cup on top of the boot.
Drying: Remove liners and insoles and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Storage: Store boots in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in damp or heated environments. Make sure to lace up or tighten dials in your boots to maintain their shape.
Fit Adjustment: Some packing out is normal, but if boots start feeling loose or uncomfortable, consider consulting a boot fitter for possible adjustments or enhancements.
Surface Protection: Avoid walking on abrasive surfaces to prevent premature wear of the boot's sole.
Cleaning: Be sure to wash them by hand and never put them in the washer or dryer, as high heat can damage the materials.
Snowboard maintenance is more than just a chore—it’s an investment in your ride experience, your safety, and the life of your gear. Keeping your setup dialed in means more time shredding and fewer days sitting it out.