Summerize Your Skis
Protect your investment. Prepare for next season. Keep your bases in peak condition year-round.
Why Base Conditioning Matters
Protect Your Investment
Ski bases cost $200-$500 to replace. Proper conditioning extends their life by years, saving you thousands.
Maximize Performance
A well-conditioned base absorbs wax better, creating faster glide and better edge hold throughout the season.
Season-Long Consistency
Properly summerized bases maintain their performance from opening day through spring slush.
Base Condition Over Time
- With Summerizing
- Without Maintenance
Without maintenance: Bases degrade 40-60% over 6 months of storage.
With summerizing: Bases maintain 85-95% of their condition.
Without Maintenance
Oxidation, moisture absorption, and wax breakdown accelerate base degradation
With Summerizing
Protective wax layer seals bases, preventing oxidation and moisture damage
The Science Behind Base Conditioning
How Wax Penetration Works
Ski bases are porous structures with microscopic channels. When wax is applied and allowed to penetrate, it fills these channels, creating a protective barrier. This barrier reduces oxidation, prevents moisture absorption, and provides a better surface for glide wax to adhere during the ski season.
The Science: Base Penetration Impact
A well-conditioned base absorbs and retains wax more effectively, creating a faster, more durable glide surface. This translates to real performance gains throughout the season.
The Complete Summerize Process
Clean Your Bases
- Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris
- Wipe with a damp cloth (not soaking wet)
- Let dry completely (2-4 hours)
Rub - Apply FoundationX™
- Use FoundationX™ base conditioning wax
- Apply like a crayon, covering entire base
- Cover all bases evenly for deep penetration
Iron - Quick Pass (Optional)
- Use a low-heat iron for even distribution
- Quick pass only - do not overheat
- Helps wax penetrate deeper into base
Wait - Rest Overnight
- Let skis rest for 8-12 hours minimum
- Wax penetrates deeply into the base
- This is the secret to maximum conditioning
Buff - Polish Smooth
- Polish smooth with a soft cloth or brush
- Remove excess wax buildup
- Bases ready for your regular skiing wax
Ready for the Mountain
After summerizing with FoundationX, your skis are perfectly conditioned. Before your next ski day, apply your regular performance wax:
Year-Round Maintenance Timeline
Spring
End of season tune-up. Clean bases, apply light conditioning wax.
Summer
Full summerize process. Deep conditioning with FoundationX.
Fall
Pre-season check. Light wax, inspect bases for damage.
Winter
Regular waxing. Every 5-10 days for optimal performance.
Parent vs Racer Approach
Parents: Protect Your Investment
- Summerize once per year (summer)
- Extend ski base life by 3-5 years
- Save $500+ in replacement costs
- Ensure consistent performance all season
Racers: Optimize Performance
- Summerize + monthly touch-ups
- Maximize glide and edge hold
- Consistent base preparation for races
- Competitive edge on the course
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I summerize?
Once per year during summer is ideal. This provides maximum protection during off-season storage and prepares your bases for the upcoming ski season.
Can I use regular wax for summerizing?
Base conditioning wax like FoundationX is specifically formulated for deep penetration and long-term storage. Regular skiing wax is designed for glide, not conditioning.
Is the iron step really necessary?
No, it's optional. The iron helps distribute wax evenly and aids penetration, but you can skip it and still get good results. The overnight rest is more important.
How long should skis rest after applying wax?
Minimum 8 hours, but overnight (12+ hours) is ideal. This allows the wax to fully penetrate the base structure.
Where should I store my skis?
Cool, dry place (50-65°F ideal). Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity. Store bases-up to prevent warping.
Get Ski Maintenance Tips
Subscribe to our newsletter for seasonal maintenance tips, product updates, and exclusive skiing content.
No spam. Just helpful skiing tips and product news.