How To Apply Ski Wax To Cross Country Skis

Need to know how to apply ski wax to cross country skis? By following the guidelines below, you can learn how to apply ski wax to your cross country skis by yourself. Applying ski wax to your cross country skis allows for greater movement and prevents your skis from getting bogged down with heavy snow.

To apply ski wax to cross country skis, you will need:

• Masking tape
• Sandpaper
• A waxing iron
• Base cleaner
• Grip wax
• A waxing cork
• A plastic scraper

1. Purchase ski wax. Hard waxes are relatively popular, and work best when temperatures are between 35 and -25 degrees Fahrenheit. Certain waxes are better for warm weather, or for use on snow that has melted and then refrozen. Finally, choose spray wax for quick, on-site fixes.
2. Use masking tape to mark the middle third of your cross country ski, otherwise known as the kick zone. Clean the kick zone with a scraper, and clean carefully with a dry cloth and base cleaner. Finally, use fine sandpaper to carefully rub the area. Dry the surface of your cross country ski completely before waxing.
3. Wax your skis at room temperature. If using hard wax, hold the ski at an 30 degree angle, and apply the wax with short strokes. Rub the area with cork, and repeat the process. If using certain waxes, use sandpaper cork to rub the kick zone, and then apply the wax on either side of the ski groove. Smooth the wax with a waxing iron which has reached a temperature of 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the wax has cooled, cork the area. Finally, if using spray wax, apply an even layer over then entire kick zone, and do not cork.