Vicki Bancroft, contributing writer
April, 2004

Early April is rarely a happy time for this skier for I know that, save a day or two, my ski season is over. When it’s time to close out my ski season, I’ve developed a process that enables me to get ready for next year (only eight months to go) while I put a wrap on this season. I usually take a rainy Saturday and get it all done so I can move on to the warm weather delights of spring which are bound to come my way.

I start with my ski rack which although I am tempted to leave perched on my SUV is better off removed and stored in the garage. If you have the box style, give it a quick vacuum to catch the inevitable stones and twigs that accumulate especially from spring skiing. Lubricate all locks and metal joints with WD-40 or a similar product. Check your keys for signs of wear and if you are really smart, have an extra set made and keep with the rack. Store in a dry location until that happy day comes in late October when you can remount your rack and get ready to head to the mountains again.

Skis and snowboards should be given a quick inspection for signs of under surface damage. Clean edges with a cloth moistened in silicone spray and let dry. Seal edges by rubbing a wax candle over them. Lubricate both ski and snowboard bindings to clear any debris and protect from the summer’s humidity.

Ski poles should be checked for damage to the baskets and grips. If you find you need either replaced, take care of it now and you will thank yourself in the fall. There are great sales in the late and off season and you may just save enough money to ski an extra day next year.

Both ski and snowboard boots should be checked thoroughly for any moisture and dried thoroughly. Stuff boots with an old towel and store in a dry location. Check buckles for any damage and replace as needed.

Once my equipment has been given the end of season care, I turn to my clothing. This can be an overwhelming job as I tend to accumulate more over the winter months. This is a good time to be brutally honest about what you want and don’t want. Donate unwanted ski related clothing to programs that take underprivileged kids skiing or to adaptive programs.

Cut off all those lift tickets, empty pockets and head to the laudromat with your favorite detergent and a bottle of Lestoil. Wash all outerwear in an oversized machine according to manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a dab of Lestoil directly to any stains. Whether you dumped your hot chocolate or met up with some grease while changing a tire, this is your best chance of coming clean. Most outwear can be dried in a dryer but if you’re dealing with down, defer to the experts.

While you’re cleaning your clothing, check zippers and fabric for wear. If it needs replacement, you can check the off season sales. When everything is thoroughly washed and dried, you’re ready to organize it for an effortless start in the late fall.

Go to your local dollar store and buy the white cotton mesh bags they sell for laundering unmentionables. They usually come three to a pack and you won’t find a cheaper way to sort and store your treasured winter items. Label with an indelible marker according to categories-ski socks, hats, neck and face warmers, gloves and mittens, turtlenecks and microfleece. Fill by category and store in a plastic bin. The mesh bags will stack nicely on top of folded outwear and save space so you can consolidate all your gear. If you have a family of skiers or riders, buy them their own plastic bin and share the method. They will learn a lifelong skill of taking care of their equipment.

Although this is time consuming, I find it to be a great use of my time during April showers. If you find it painfully tedious, put on a good Warren Miller flick and it should ease your discomfort. You’ll thank yourself in late fall when you get ready to pack for your first trip up north.

Now, where did I put that bin with my golf clothes?

Vicki Bancroft is an award winning freelance writer who skis primarily in the Northeast. In addition to skiing, her family enjoys snowboarding, surfing, fishing, boating, scuba diving and rock climbing so managing equipment has become a way of life.