How to Transition Your Ski Gear from Winter to Summer: Care and Storage Tips

As the last snowflakes melt and ski season winds down, it’s time to start thinking about how to properly care for and store your ski gear during the off-season. Whether you’re an avid skier or just starting to build your collection, maintaining your gear during the summer is key to ensuring it performs at its best when winter returns.

At Verta Mountain Club, we know how much you invest in high-quality skiwear and equipment, which is why we’re sharing expert tips on how to keep everything in top condition during the summer. Follow these steps to ensure your gear stays fresh, functional, and ready for the next ski season.

1. Clean Your Skiwear and Gear Thoroughly

Before packing away your ski gear, give it a thorough clean to remove dirt, sweat, and grime that may have accumulated over the season.

✅ Ski Suits & Outerwear: Wash your Verta Mountain Club ski suit with a gentle detergent designed for technical fabrics. Avoid regular detergents as they can damage the waterproof coating. Use cold water and a delicate cycle, and always air dry to maintain the fabric’s integrity. 

✅ Base Layers: Wash your base layers separately using a mild detergent and let them air dry to preserve their moisture-wicking properties. 

✅ Gloves and Accessories: Wipe down gloves, goggles, and helmets with a damp cloth. Remove any buildup on your goggles and ensure the lenses are clean and scratch-free.

💡 Verta Tip: Consider using a spray-on DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment on your ski suit before storing it to maintain its water resistance.

2. Wax and Tune Your Skis and Snowboard

Prepping your skis or snowboard before summer storage is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your equipment.

✅ Base Cleaning: Clean the base of your skis or snowboard to remove dirt, grime, and leftover wax. Use a base cleaner or mild rubbing alcohol to ensure it’s completely clean. 

✅ Apply a Storage Wax: Apply a thick layer of warm storage wax to protect the base from drying out over the summer. Leave the wax on without scraping it off — this will prevent the base from oxidizing. 

✅ Sharpen and Check Edges: Inspect the edges for rust or burrs and sharpen them if necessary to prevent damage during storage.

💡 Verta Tip: If you’re not comfortable waxing and tuning your gear yourself, consider taking it to a professional ski shop for a tune-up before storing it.

3. Properly Store Your Boots and Bindings

Ski boots and bindings require special care to ensure they maintain their shape and functionality.

✅ Dry Thoroughly: Make sure your ski boots are completely dry before storing them. Remove the liners and footbeds to air them out, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to odor and mold. 

✅ Loosen Buckles: Loosen all the buckles and straps on your boots to prevent unnecessary strain on the plastic, which can lead to cracking. 

✅ Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your boots in a temperature-controlled environment. Avoid leaving them in a hot attic or damp basement, as extreme temperatures can cause the plastic to warp.

4. Store Your Skiwear with Care

When it comes to storing your Verta Mountain Club ski suit and other outerwear, a little extra care goes a long way.

✅ Avoid Compression: Avoid compressing your ski suit into tight storage spaces, as this can damage the fabric and compromise the insulation. Instead, hang your outerwear on sturdy hangers or store it loosely folded in a breathable garment bag. 

✅ Keep It Dry and Protected: Store your gear in a cool, dry space away from direct sunlight. Adding silica gel packets to the storage area can help prevent moisture buildup. 

✅ Inspect Before Storing: Check for any rips, tears, or loose seams. Addressing these issues before storage will save you time when the next ski season rolls around.

5. Maintain Your Goggles and Helmets

Goggles and helmets often get overlooked during the storage process, but they require attention too!

✅ Clean Goggles Properly: Use a microfiber cloth to clean the lenses and avoid touching the inside to prevent scratches. Store them in a protective case to avoid damage. 

✅ Inspect Helmets for Damage: Check your helmet for cracks or dents that may have occurred during the season. If you notice any damage, it may be time for a replacement.

💡 Verta Tip: Invest in a ventilated goggle and helmet bag to keep them protected and dust-free over the summer.

6. Don’t Forget Small Accessories

Small accessories like gloves, neck gaiters, and socks also need a little TLC before summer storage.

✅ Wash and Air Dry: Make sure gloves and neck gaiters are washed and air-dried before storing them. 

✅ Pair and Organize: Keep everything organized in a labeled bin or storage bag, so you’re not scrambling to find them when winter arrives.

7. Monitor Storage Conditions Throughout Summer

Even after you’ve stored your gear, it’s a good idea to periodically check on it during the summer.

✅ Temperature Control: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations that can damage your gear. 

✅ Check for Moisture: If you notice any signs of moisture or mold, take immediate steps to air out and clean the affected gear.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Storing your ski gear correctly during the summer not only extends the life of your equipment but also ensures that you’re ready to hit the slopes as soon as the first snowfall hits. At Verta Mountain Club, we’re all about helping you “Own the Moment” on and off the slopes — and taking care of your gear is part of that journey.

By following these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle another season in your stylish and high-performance Verta ski suit without missing a beat.