The Advantages of Ski Wax

Base Protection

Ski wax protects the bases of your skis from the sharp, abrasive snow crystals, as well as the oxidation caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays. When temperatures drop below the freezing mark, the snow crystals become sharper, and, therefore, more abrasive. Waxing becomes particularly important in these conditions. Likewise, high altitude ski areas are sunnier. Just as you use sunscreen to protect your skin, waxing protects the bases of your skis.

Temperature Adjustment

If you ski in a variety of climates, you may need to use different types of ski wax. South American ski season, for example, takes place from June to September. By mid-September, temperatures begin to rise above freezing. If you visit during the ski season and have your skis waxed and tuned, and then you visit a cold, New England resort a few months later, you might find that your skis are not doing well in the cold temperatures. That is because ski wax is coded to enhance optimum performance in different temperatures. Red ski wax is used for temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 to 2 degrees Celsius). Blue ski wax is most suitable for temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 to -4 degrees Celsius). If you ski in temperatures below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, use a teal ski wax.

Speed

Professional ski racers know that ski wax is crucial to racing speed, but adequate speed is also important to recreational skiers. Suppose, for example, a steep, downhill slope lies ahead of you. It is followed by an even steeper uphill slope. If you are interested in hiking up that hill, you only have one choice. Point your skis straight down the hill, and don't even think about turning. Hopefully, you pick up enough speed, and that speed creates enough momentum to carry you up the second hill. You assume the skier's "tuck position," and point your skis straight ahead, but they move at a snail's pace. This indicates that you need to wax your skis.