Cross Country Ski Wax

Is It Necessary to Wax Cross Country Skis?

Certainly! All cross country skis need wax, and it is vital for maintaining their good condition. You cannot over-wax, and the more frequently you apply it, the better your glide becomes. Nordic ski wax is available in several varieties: glide wax, kick wax, and klister wax. In this area, you'll not only discover ski wax kits but also ski tuning equipment to keep your XC skis in optimal condition.

Applying glide wax aids in skiing smoothly and quickly across the country. With glide wax, you can select from options such as a liquid, paste, or solid wax bar. This type of wax is not limited to cross country skiing and is favoured by a wide range of skiers and snowboarders.

Conversely, kick wax is crafted to provide you with the best traction on snow. This is crucial for gaining forward momentum when navigating the trails. Klister wax is similar to kick wax, being the stickiest variant, typically used in warmer weather or on snow that has undergone melting and refreezing.

What Makes Ski Tuning Essential?

Regularly tuning your skis is beneficial for maintaining their condition. As a result of tuning, they will become more responsive, faster and better at gripping the snow. Depending on the amount of work required and your own experience, you may choose to do it yourself or have it done by a professional. It is, however, impossible to specify an exact frequency for tuning, as this varies based on how often you ski.

If you opt to tune on your own, consider these three steps: base repair, edge work and waxing. If you are unsure whether they require tuning, inspect the base for holes and scratches. For edge work, look at the sides for rust or roughness.

To minimise the chance of damage when transporting your skis or if you’re in need of a new bag for the backcountry, visit our Bags for Cross Country Skiing category.