As winter wraps up and spring arrives, it is time to declutter, clean, and organize. That’s pretty much everyone does as a part of the spring cleaning routine. You have an extra workload if you love winter sports like skiing, ice skating, or snowboarding. Your precious boots, skis, poles, clothing, and gear require proper maintenance and storage to stay safe until the next snow season.
According to 2023 statistics, nearly 29.9 million Americans (10% of the population) participated in these activities in the previous year. That means you will have a lot of packing and storage inspiration. With the global winter sports equipment market expected to reach $15 billion in 2024, you can understand how big individual investment can be.
A little attention and care during storage can keep your winter gear safe and ready to hit the slopes in the next season. In this article, we will share a few actionable tips to store your equipment safely.
Clean Your Gear Thoroughly
The first step is to thoroughly clean your winter sports gear because it is likely loaded with salt, dirt, or debris accumulated during use. A mild detergent dissolved in water is good enough to clean snowboards, skis, helmets, and protective gear. Use a damp cloth to wipe down ice skates and other accessories.
Sending your heavy jackets for dry cleaning is a good idea. Remember to dry your winter boots to prevent moisture buildup. It also prevents the growth of mold or mildew and keeps them odor-free and in good condition. Solutions like Alpine Dryers for boots and gear can help you DIY the process instead of spending on professional services.
Boot, glove, and gear dryers make a worthy one-time investment for winter sports enthusiasts. You can use it year after year, and save a fortune while being stress-free about the storage and care of your valuable gear.
Inspect for Damage
After cleaning your winter gear and before storing it for the next season, remember to inspect it for damage. Sports like skiing and snowboarding are rigorous, making the equipment susceptible to damage and wear and tear. The last thing you want is to shell out hundreds of dollars for new accessories when the next season starts.
Check the equipment for dents, cracks, loose screws, or broken parts that may require repairing. Similarly, have a good look at your jackets and boots because they are equally prone to damage. Addressing small issues before storing your equipment prevents further damage and ensures that everything is ready for use when winter is back.
Use Protective Covers and Bags
Cleaning and damage control give you a good start when it comes to storing your winter sports gear. However, you cannot stash things away anywhere without protective packing. The official winter season in the US is from December to February, and that’s when you can enjoy snow sports in most locations. It means your sports gear will be packed away for almost nine months.
Invest in protective covers and bags to shield your valuable pieces from dust, damage, and scratches during storage. You can rely on ski and snowboard bags to protect them from the elements and transportation hazards. Also, use helmet and gear bags to store helmets, goggles, gloves, and other accessories. Pick breathable materials to allow circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Store in a Dry and Cool Environment
A dry and cool storage area is essential to safeguard your winter sports gear for several months. It is the best line of defense against moisture and mold growth that may damage your expensive accessories. Also, avoid damp basements or humid environments as storing your stuff here can cause rust and corrosion.
A dedicated storage rack or shelf is the best place to keep your winter sports equipment organized and off the ground. You can have it built inside your room or a vacant one in your home. In case of space constraints, consider hanging the gear on wall-mounted hooks in a safe area. Remember to keep this part of your house pest-free.
Maintain Your Equipment
Although these best practices for storage can keep your winter gear safe during the off-season, you cannot take a set-and-forget approach to its care. Stay on top of maintenance by periodically checking on your stored gear. Check for signs of damage, moisture, and household pests, and take proactive measures to address them promptly.
Also, open bags and allow your equipment to breathe for a few hours every couple of months. Applying a protective wax coating to skis and snowboards can help maintain their base and edges even when not in use.
In conclusion, proper storage can preserve the quality and performance of your winter sports gear for the next season’s snowy adventures. Additionally, it enhances the longevity of your investment and saves you from hefty repair expenses in the long run.