Does waxing skis also smoothen the wax on the top and sides of the skis?

Answer

Wax is only to be used on the base of the skis, except when you coat the metal side edges for storage, since it helps avoid rust. Ski bases are like sponges; they soak up wax and release it when you ski. Wax techs for World Cup ski racers, in fact, will hot wax a new pair of skis over 100 times, so the bases are fully saturated. After waxing, it's generally recommended that you scrape off the excess wax, then use a special brush to remove even more tiny bits of wax. Wax that is soaked into the bases will release as the heat from friction builds up as the skis pass over the snow.

The best way to wax is the hot wax method, since it lasts much longer. You may also use rub on and paste waxes, but they only last for a few runs at best.

If you look at a ski base under a microscope, you'll see it's not smooth, but has tiny peaks and valleys. This is to allow water to pass. Ski racers, in particular, select from a variety of patterns when getting their bases stone ground. If it were a flat surface, suction would build up.

First answer by ID3451680069. Last edit by Ski999. Contributor trust: 43 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 64 [recommend question]