How To Care For Your Ski Boots
Although ski boots require relatively little maintenance, there are a few things you can do to make sure that they last longer.
The current lockdown offers a fantastic opportunity to organise and clean all of your gear. That includes the bits that may not usually receive much attention due to their reputation as low-maintenance pieces of equipment, such as your ski boots. Check out our best tips below on where to store your ski boots and how you should look after them to maximise their lifespan.
HOW TO STORE SKI BOOTS
Preparation before storage
1. It's important to remove the liners and insoles to allow them to dry naturally after every use and especially before placing the boots in storage. Prolonged dampness will not only make your ski boots smell bad, but it can also cause the materials to break down quicker. When the liners are fully dry, put them back inside the shells to keep their shape.
2. Check the boots for damage. Buckles and especially soles can be dinged or worn to the point where they're no longer functional or safe in a binding. It's worth checking them at this stage to maximise the time you've got to deal with any issues before your next trip.
3. Make sure you do up all buckles and straps. It will help your boots maintain their shape, which is crucial for your comfort. You should set them roughly in the same position as you do for skiing.
Where to store your ski boots
The ideal storage place for ski boots is somewhere dry and cool; avoid the areas in your home that are prone to considerable temperature fluctuations.
It's essential to keep your ski boots away from radiators because direct heat can cause irreversible damage to the plastic shell and custom insoles. Harmful UV rays can also be detrimental to your ski boots over time. The plastics can start to fade and degrade if you leave them in direct sunlight for an extended period.
It's also best to avoid storing your boots in garages and sheds. They rarely have a stable temperature throughout the year, and they can expose your ski boots to nesting rodents.
We recommend that you use a ski boot bag to protect your ski boots while they're in storage. That will stop dust and other particles from collecting inside.
HOW TO CLEAN SKI BOOTS
You can wash the plastic shells of your ski boots with some hot water and a mild detergent, such as dish soap. Make sure you remove your liners first. After you've finished, let the shells dry naturally away from direct heat.
You should avoid washing the liners, but you can carefully wipe off any dirt with a brush or damp cloth. The best way to keep your liners clean and fresh is to allow them to air dry after every use. Remove them from the shells and ensure they are completely dry before putting them back in.
You can speed up the process of drying your ski boots by using specialist boot dryers. They circulate the warm air rather than applying it directly, ensuring that your ski boots don't get damaged. If you're looking for a way to freshen up your liners, try Boot Bananas. They absorb moisture and mask unsavoury odours effectively.
About the Author:Iida Ruokojärvi - Outdoor ExpertIida grew up in Finland where she was introduced to the outdoors at a very young age. Snowboarding has become second nature to her despite now living in a less snowy part of the world. Since moving to the UK, she rediscovered her love for hiking and continues to explore the British mountains and beyond. |