Pre-Season Ski Checklist: 8 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Gear for Winter
Your pre-season ski checklist should include inspecting your skis, checking bindings and boots, replacing old safety gear, washing and re-waterproofing layers, and booking a professional ski tuning service. These steps ensure your gear performs safely and efficiently during your first run of the season.
Starting the season with tuned, well-fitted equipment boosts confidence, performance, and safety on early-season snow.
What Is a Pre-Season Ski Checklist?
A pre-season ski checklist is a preparation routine that ensures your skis, boots, bindings, and safety gear are ready before winter begins. Completing it early helps avoid last-minute issues, improves gear longevity, and enhances performance when slopes open.
1- Skis: Bases, Edges, and Wax
• Inspect your bases for scratches, dry patches, or edge separation. Mark any deep gouges for repair with P-Tex.
• Sharpen edges and remove rust or burrs for better control on icy terrain.
• Apply a hot wax suitable for early-season snow temperatures to protect and condition your bases.
Pro Tip: Even if you’re confident tuning at home, schedule a professional ski tune at the beginning of every season for a base grind and consistent edge bevel.
2- Bindings: Check, Clean, and Test
• Inspect bindings for cracks, worn parts, or sticky mechanisms. Make sure brakes deploy and retract smoothly.
• Verify DIN settings of your height, weight, orskier type have changed and.
Book a binding adjustment to ensure safe release values before hitting the slopes.
3- Boots: Comfort and Fit
• Check your liners for wear or compression. Re-mold liners if needed for a snug, supportive fit.
• Inspect shells and buckles for cracks or loose hardware. Replace worn soles.
• Evaluate your footbeds; consider supportive insoles to improve comfort, control, and warmth.
Tip: Book a custom boot fitting at Westside for a precise fit and adjustments to reduce pressure points and enhance performance.
4- Safety Gear: Helmet, Goggles, and Layers
• Helmet: Check the manufacture date and replace any helmets that are over five years old or damaged.
• Goggles: Inspect foam and lenses for damage or scratches, and add a low-light lens for stormy days.
• Technical apparel: Wash waterproof layers with technical detergent and re-waterproof DWR coatings to restore breathability.
5- Poles and Accessories
Inspect baskets, straps, and locks. Replace cracked components and tighten telescopic mechanisms.
6- Backcountry and Touring Gear
If you plan to ski in the backcountry, check your skins, avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe.
Ensure beacon batteries are fresh, glue is tacky, and components deploy smoothly.
Safety Tip: Do a quick transceiver practice with your group before leaving for your first tour.
7- On-Hill Repair Kit
Pack a compact kit with a multitool, duct tape, scraper, P-Tex, spare screws, and zip ties.
A quick fix can save your day on the mountain.
8- Professional Service and Tune
Book a pro tune and binding check before peak season.
A technician can grind, wax, and calibrate your setup for optimal safety and performance.
Quick Checklist
• Skis inspected, edges sharpened, bases waxed
• Bindings tested and DIN verified
• Boots fitted, liners molded
• Helmet and goggles inspected
• Outerwear cleaned and re-proofed
• Poles and accessories checked
• Avalanche gear tested
• Repair kit packed
• Pro tune booked
FAQs
How often should skis be tuned?
Wax every 5–8 ski days, or sooner if there is damage.
Tune edges every 10-15 days, or when edges feel dull.
When should I replace my helmet?
Helmets should be inspected after any major impact or every five years, whichever comes first.
What DIN setting should I use?
It depends on your height, weight, boot sole length, age, and skiing style.
Always have a shop test it for accuracy.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your gear before winter saves time and stress once the lifts start spinning.
A thorough pre-season ski checklist ensures better performance, safety, and enjoyment all season long.
Before the snow falls, visit your trusted local shop for expert tuning, boot fitting, and advice.
