To get the best possible glide on the trails and to keep your cross-country skis in good condition, you should wax them. The more often you wax your skis, the better they will glide. Have you never waxed skis before? Or do you find it difficult to get the technique right? Don’t worry—together with the national biathlon team's waxing expert, Kent Norell, we’re giving you valuable tips to help you become a real waxing pro!
Ski wax is a type of coating applied to the base of the ski to provide better grip or glide. There are different types of wax depending on the temperature and snow conditions.
Depending on your preferences, the weather, and your type of ski, you can choose between various kinds of wax and tools. There are two main preparations: liquid paraffin and hard paraffin. Hard paraffin requires an iron to heat it up, while liquid paraffin is quicker and easier to apply.
Regardless of whether you use hard or liquid wax, it’s important to have a brush, scraper, and groove scraper to remove excess wax.
Are you waxing classic cross-country skis or skin skis? The glide zones are waxed in the same way on both types. However, grip waxing differs. For classic skis, only waxable skis should be grip-waxed under the foot. Skin skis do not require grip wax.
Always start by cleaning the ski base. Use ski cleaner to remove old wax residues. Then brush in the direction of the ski’s glide.
For liquid paraffin, apply an even layer and let it dry.
For hard paraffin, heat the waxing iron according to the instructions on the wax—usually around 100°C for universal wax. Hold the wax against the iron so it drips onto the ski, then spread evenly with the iron.
Once the wax has cooled, scrape it off using a scraper. Also use a groove scraper to remove wax from the ski’s grooves. This is important to ensure the best possible glide. Any leftover wax can slow you down. The wax penetrates the ski base, and the scraping removes the excess.
Let the skis rest overnight. Before heading out again, remember to brush off any remaining wax for optimal glide.
