Winter sports enthusiasts certainly look forward to the holidays, and with them come opportunities to indulge in snowboarding, skiing, and other exciting activities. Snowboarding, in particular, is a thrilling sport that requires the right gear, commitment, and practice to master.
If you have invested significantly in your snowboarding gear, it’s natural to want to take good care of your equipment so it can serve you in good stead for several winters to come. Proper maintenance will help you avoid costly repairs or replacements and also enhance your performance.
In this blog post, we will discuss how you can keep your snowboard, boots, goggles, and other equipment in top-notch condition, and what you should do to store them between seasons. Additionally, we will also answer some frequently asked questions about maintaining your gear.
Cleaning Your Snowboard
Before we dive into how to maintain your snowboard, let’s begin with the basics – cleaning your board. Good maintenance starts with inspecting your board for any damage, chips or debris that may have accumulated during your use.
Next, you need to clean the board with the appropriate materials to eliminate dirt and grime, lubricate the edges, and remove any wax build-up. Here’s how to clean your snowboard:
1. The first step is to remove the bindings to access the board’s underside. Using a plastic scraper or a damp cloth, remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the board’s base.
2. Using a specific snowboard base cleaner, apply it to the board and use a cloth or scrub brush to remove dirt or wax build-up sticking to the board. Avoid cleaning with aggressive solvents or strong detergents that may damage your board.
3. If your board has seen many winters, chances are it needs a good waxing. You can either wax your board at home or take it to a professional. New boards come pre-waxed, but after a few uses, the wax tends to wear off. A proper wax job will not only help improve the glide but also prolong the board’s life.
4. Finally, you can use a lubricant to treat the board’s edges. Apply edge lubricant with a sponge or soft cloth to smooth out and prevent any rusting.
Cleaning Your Snowboarding Boots
Your snowboarding boots work hard for you when hitting the slopes. They are constantly exposed to the snow, ice, and moisture, making it important to keep them clean and dry.
Here’s how to clean your snowboarding boots:
1. Remove the snowboarding boot liners and clean them separately. Use a mild soap and warm water to wash them, but avoid boiling or drying the liners in a machine as they may shrink or deform.
2. Clean the boot shell using a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that may scratch or damage the surface.
3. After cleaning, dry your boots with a towel or leave them in a warm and dry location. Remember not to expose your boots to direct sunlight or heat sources as these can cause the boots to deform or crack.
4. Store your boots in a dry and cool location, and keep them away from direct sunlight or moisture to prevent mold or mildew from growing. Remember not to store them in a sealed plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and increase the chance of damage over time.
Cleaning Your Goggles
As you snowboard, you rely heavily on your goggles to keep your vision clear and protect your eyes from wind, snow, and debris. Over time, your goggles may accumulate dirt, watermarks, and scratches on the lenses.
Here’s how to clean your snowboarding goggles:
1. Begin by wiping off dirt or smudges from the surface of the goggles with a microfiber cloth or a soft cloth.
2. Use a lens cleaner specially made for optics or eyewear to remove any watermarks or smudges from the lens surface. Apply a small amount to the lens and buff it out with a microfiber cloth or buffing tissue.
3. Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaners that may cause the lens to peel or scratch. Keep in mind that hot water can damage some modern lenses by melting the coatings.
4. Store your goggles in a case or a soft fabric bag to protect them from scratches or impact when not in use.
How to Store Your Snowboarding Gear Between Seasons
After a long winter season, your snowboarding gear needs to be stored in a safe and organized manner for several months. Here are some tips to store your gear correctly and keep it in tip-top shape:
1. Clean your gear – You should begin by cleaning your gear, as discussed above. Knowing that you won’t need your gear for a while, it’s critical you take the time to clean them. This will eliminate any moisture or dirt which, if left untreated for months, will slowly degrade your gear.
2. Avoid direct sunlight – Store your gear in a cool, dry and dark location, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators. It’s important to keep your gear out of the sun, as UV rays can damage materials and fade colors over time.
3. Ensure your storage area is moisture-free – Snowboard gear should be stored in a dry area that is at room temperature or cooler. Moisture and humidity are enemies of snowboard gear, as they can cause mold and mildew infestations or cause metal parts to rust.
4. Store your board and boots separately – Store your snowboard flat in a vertical rack or against a wall. Never lean the board against a wall since it will cause the board to warp over time. Place your boots on their heels in a plastic container to protect them and keep them dry.
5. Check your gear periodically – It’s essential to check your gear occasionally during the storage period to ensure that there are no signs of damage to the board, boots, or other equipment. Check for cracks, chips or scratches that may have gone unnoticed during cleaning.
F.A.Q.
Q: Can I use regular detergent to clean my snowboarding gear?
A: No, it is not advisable to use regular detergents or harsh cleaners when cleaning your snowboarding gear. Prolonged use of harsh chemicals can break down technical fabrics, and regular detergents can also cause fading, fiber damage, and contribute to unwanted odor development.
Q: How often should I wax my snowboard?
A: The frequency of waxing depends on how often you use your board. A general rule of thumb is to wax your board after every five uses or every time you notice dry or sticky patches on the surface.
Q: How do I know if my snowboarding boots are the right size?
A: When trying on boots, ensure they fit snugly but not too tight or too loose. Remember, toe room is essential; hence, ensure you can wiggle your toes comfortably. Try walking, bending, and flexing while wearing the boots and check for any discomfort or bulges.
Conclusion
Maintaining your snowboarding gear not only prolongs its lifespan but also ensures a better and safer ride down the slopes. Avoid using harsh detergents, keep your gear in a dry, cool location, and frequently inspect your gear for damage. The most crucial aspect of caring for your gear is to clean it and store it the right way between seasons, where it’s not in use.
Adopting these simple yet effective tips can make a big difference in the life of your equipment and in how well it performs for you on the mountain. So whether you’re a seasoned snowboarder or a newbie, remember these tips, and always be prepared to gear up for winter sports fun.
Image Credit: Pexels