Owning your own skis or snowboard is an exciting milestone—but it also comes with some maintenance responsibilities. Just like a bike needs chain lube or a car needs oil changes, your snow gear needs regular tuning to perform its best.
If you're a first-time equipment owner, don’t worry—keeping your gear in great shape isn’t as complicated as it might sound. Here’s a straightforward guide to how often you should tune your skis or snowboard, and what each service does.
1. Waxing: Every 3–5 Days on Snow (Or Once — Forever — with Phantom)
Wax is the slick layer that keeps your skis or snowboard gliding smoothly over snow. It’s essential for reducing friction and improving control, especially on flatter terrain or in sticky conditions.
Traditional Wax:
Most hot waxes only last about 3–5 days on snow, especially in warmer or abrasive conditions. You’ll know it’s time for a wax when your base starts looking dry or white, or your skis/board feels slow on cat tracks.
The Game-Changer – Phantom Glide:
At The Pro Ski and Ride, we offer Phantom Permanent Waxless Glide — a one-time application that permanently bonds to your base. It provides wax-like performance forever, eliminating the need to re-wax.
🔧 Pro Tip: Phantom is especially great for weekend warriors, travelers, or anyone tired of the wax-rewax cycle.
2. Edge Sharpening: 2–3 Times Per Season (or As Needed)
Sharp edges are key for maintaining control on hardpack, carving clean turns, and gripping on icy conditions.
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If you're a carving-focused skier or rider, your edges will need more TLC than someone who mostly skids or surfs powder.
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When you feel your edges slipping where they used to hold, it’s time for a sharpen.
For most weekend skiers or riders, we recommend an edge sharpening about 2–3 times per season—more if you're hitting icy slopes often or like that razor-sharp feel.
3. Full Tune: At Least Once Per Season
A full tune includes:
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Base grinding and structuring (for flatness and glide)
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P-tex base repairs (to fix gouges or rock damage)
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Edge sharpening
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Waxing
Even with perfect technique and care, skis and snowboards slowly lose their structure and flatness over time. A full tune restores your base to near factory conditions and ensures your gear runs true.
We recommend getting a full tune at least once per season, especially after early or late-season rocky days.
🛠️ Got deep scratches or core shots? Don’t wait! Bring your gear in for base repair and grinding ASAP to prevent long-term damage.
Tuning Options at The Pro Ski and Ride
At The Pro Ski and Ride, we offer professional ski and snowboard tuning, including:
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Hot Wax and Edge Sharpening
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Full Tune Packages
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Base Repairs
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Phantom Permanent Glide Installation
👉 See our full tuning menu here
Final Thoughts: Keep It Sharp, Keep It Fun
Tuning isn't just about speed—it’s about control, safety, and getting the most out of your investment. Regular maintenance ensures your gear rides well, lasts longer, and helps you feel more confident on snow.
Whether you’re carving groomers or just cruising the mountain, tuned equipment is a better experience all around.
Have questions? Stop by The Pro Ski and Ride. We’re here to help keep your gear—and your season—running smooth.