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BACKCOUNTRY: Six Ways to Take Care and Maintain Your Skins

Writer's picture: Allie AceAllie Ace



folding ski skins
Properly folding skins at the top before your descent is a key.



Did you know that your skis require special care and maintenance? Skins have a variety of purposes, from making your ascents easier,to help you reach new heights in the backcountry to gliding with ease. This crucial piece of gear requires special care and maintenance to maintain its super-gliding properties. With proper care and attention, ski skins can last up to 150,000 meters of vert... unless you're Noah Dines your skins should last you a good season or five.


In addition to caring for the skin on your body, maintaining the skins on your skis or split board is equally important when venturing into the backcountry.

Your skins are the essential tools that help you ascend the mountain.


Ready to learn how to keep your skins in top shape? Here are six ways to care for and maintain your ski skins:



ski touring
Proper skin maintenance is crucial to keep them performing at their best.



  • Put your skins together at the top of the mountain – either using your skin saver or by sticking them to each other. This helps protect the glue.


  • Always remove your skins after each use and hang them up to dry. (Avoid drying them too close to a heater or fireplace, as this can damage the glue.)


  • Remove any dirt or debris from the fabric side of the skins.


  • Avoid getting your skins wet whenever possible. Snow is wet (esp. heavy spring corn but keep them dry to prolong the life of your skins).


  • Store your skins at room temperature, not on your skis or board. Don't wait until you get home, make it a point to properly store before you begin your après.


  • Wax your skins regularly to help extend their lifespan.



Proper care of your skins not only extends their useful life but also makes them more efficient for your uphill climbs.




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