Cross Country Ski Wax

Do Cross Country Skis Need Waxing?

Absolutely! Every pair of cross country skis demands waxing, as it is crucial for maintaining them in optimal condition. You cannot over-wax, and the more frequently you do it, the better your glide will be. Nordic ski wax is available in several types: glide wax, kick wax, and klister wax. Within this section, you'll discover not just ski wax kits but also equipment for ski tuning to maintain your XC skis in peak form.

Applying glide wax aids in achieving a smooth and swift cross country skiing experience. With glide wax, you can choose between liquid, paste, or solid wax bars. This type of wax isn't exclusive to cross country skiers and is well-liked by a diverse range of skiers and snowboarders.

Kick wax serves a contrasting purpose, designed to provide optimal grip on the snow. This is vital for gaining forward momentum when traversing trails. Klister wax functions similarly to kick wax. It is the stickiest wax variant available and is typically used during warmer conditions or on snow that has thawed and refrozen.

Why Is It Necessary to Tune Skis?

Periodically tuning your skis is worthwhile to maintain them in top condition. Tuning results in skis that are more responsive, quicker, and have better snow grip. Based on the work required and your own expertise, you can opt to do it yourself or have it professionally done. However, it’s difficult to provide an exact frequency for tuning, as it largely depends on your skiing habits.

If you choose self-tuning, consider three steps: base repair, edge maintenance, and waxing. Unsure if tuning is necessary? Inspect for holes and scratches on the ski base. For edge maintenance, check for rust or rough patches on the sides.

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