As the season ended abruptly, most of us were hopeful we’d still get the end of spring conditions. Sadly that didn’t happen, so it is time to come to the reality of storing your winter gear for the next few months. While some people just throw it all in the back of the closet, and others put it away in a specific gear room, we’ve got a few helpful tricks and basics that can help make the most out of your gear.
Wash all Outwear
While this seems like an obvious one. Take all your outerwear; jackets, pants, hats, mittens, neck warmers, etc. and put them in a cold water cycle in your washing machine. Make sure all zippers are done up, Velcro closed and any buttons or snapped are fastened before washing.
Don’t put them in the dryer. You should hang it all to dry, preferably outside so it has a good chance to air out
Fresh smelling Boots
There is nothing I hate more than breaking in a new pair of snowboard boots, so I like to try and make my boots last as long as possible. Proper storage is key! With the boom of the essential oils market, it has made it rather easy. At the end of each ride I put two drops of tea tree oil in my boots. It naturally kills any bacteria and leaves a clean smelling aroma Just make sure it is 100% Tea Tree Oil, and not an oil blend.
At the end of the season, I put about 5-10 drops of tea tree oil along with 1/4 cup of water into a small spray bottle. I give my entire liners a healthy spraying. I then tie my boots up at about 60% so that the shape is held, but without putting stress on any laces etc.
If you do not have tea tree oil, and you don’t want to purchase any – you can always push bounce dryer sheets in your boots as they also absorb moisture and help with masking any smells
Board Bags
If you are a snowboarder and have a board bag – pack all of your outerwear, helmets, goggles, boots and your board into your board bag. It will slide under most double/queen size beds. Now you’re not taking up any room in your closets and it is all packed away together. Skiers – I think it only works for you if you have a rolling travel ski bag – sorry I am not more helpful. It has been about 16 years since I’ve been on two planks.
Board/Ski Storage
Before you’re ready to put that gear away for good. You want to ensure it has a proper storage wax. How do you do that? Well lucky for you, Jason Petznick, spent most of his teenage years as a shop tech and is going to help you through the process.
Now that you’ve followed our guidelines, you can rest assured that your gear is stored safely and will be ready to go come winter when the chairs start spinning
