When the season comes to a close, most of us store our snowboards and forget about them for a little while. After all, it’s starting to warm up and you have a ton of awesome activities competing for your attention.
That said, you shouldn’t drop your board and lounge by the pool. Neglecting equipment can cause unnecessary damage and prevent you from heading to the slopes when the weather begins to cool again. That said, refer to the best ATV Snowplows in the OccupyTheFarm that can help you out smash out those snows.
Here are a few bits of advice to take into consideration before you stow your board and head to the beach.
1. Don’t Forget to Clean Your Board
This is one of the most crucial steps. You don’t want to pull out your gear and see that it’s been dirty for months on end. Remove your bindings beforehand so that you don’t damage them in the process. Grab a hose and a towel and spray down your board — you won’t need much else to get the job done.
This process will remove dirt, salt and overall grime that has accumulated. If there are a lot of smudges or buildup, take a bit of solvent and scrub carefully. You can use any cleaner you like on the top sheet. But avoid using soaps or detergents on the base because such products will strip away lubricants. Make sure your board is thoroughly dry before you tuck it away.
2. Don’t Leave Damages Unchecked
After you clean your board, check it for damages so that they won’t surprise you down the line. If you find anything that needs to be repaired, take the proper steps to fix the issue. You may need the help of a professional for more difficult fixes.
Look at all parts, from the edges to the core, so that nothing goes unnoticed. In the case of extensive wear and tear, head down to your local ski shop to get a second opinion. Sometimes, it’s better to buy a new board than waste time fixing an old one. If you skip this step, you may encounter dangers later.
3. Don’t Store the Board in the Wrong Areas
The best piece of advice to remember is that you should choose where to store your gear wisely. Basements and attics are especially prone to moisture and insulation issues, which can harm your equipment. While you don’t want your snowboard to dry out, you also don’t want it to rust.
A cool, dry room like a closet is ideal. Also, try not to lean your board up against anything that may apply pressure. Doing so can cause damage to its camber. Instead, lay it down on a soft surface or stack it on a rack nailed to the wall. Portable stack racks can be used for so many purposes. This storage method will ensure that everything stays in tip-top shape throughout the off-season.
4. Don’t Neglect a Tune-Up
A rusty snowboard is not one you want to ride. You have to tune your board, so grab some supplies and set aside an afternoon. Examine the board for any holes or gouges, which can slow you down on the slopes. If they aren’t too big, fill them in with a P-Tex candle. Buff your edges with a diamond stone and then smooth them out with a gummy stone.
Don’t be afraid to take your snowboard to an expert if you think the work required is too in-depth. Afterward, apply a thick layer of wax so that your board can glide smoothly. You’ll want to remove the excess later on. Check on your board periodically throughout the summer to make sure it’s remained out of harm’s way.
5. Don’t Neglect Your Other Gear
Sometimes, we forget just how necessary our clothes are — we should clean them properly before storing them. After you take the liners out, wipe your boots down with a damp towel. Dry them out and then buckle or tie them up so that they retain their shape. Wash and dry everything else before you stow them away with your board. When fall comes, you won’t want to pull out these pieces of gear and see that they haven’t held up well.
You may want to buy a special detergent made for active materials, but that’s up to you. Double-check that everything is in working condition.
Plan for the Future
The main thing to avoid when it comes to snowboard maintenance is neglect. Try your hardest to at least clean your board and wax it before you put it away. This process will save you lots of time, money and effort later.
It also means that when the snow begins to fall again, you can grab everything and be on your way without any issues.
