How to Store Your Ski Boots so They Last Longer

Ski boots are an investment not just in your gear, but in the quality of your next ski holiday. You need boots that can handle every twist and turn, every type of snow, all inclines, and nonstop use from morning until night. While the overall quality of your ski boot has the most impact on these factors, there is a lot you can do on your own to ensure that your ski boots last as long as possible. Your comfort is our ultimate goal. Here are our recommendations to get the most out of your ski boots so you can enjoy season after season safely on the snow.

Choose the Right Socks

The overall goal will always be to keep your boots as warm and dry as possible. This begins with choosing the right socks to help protect your boots while in use. Avoid cotton, as it retains sweat and will quickly create odor in your boots. Instead, choose socks made from wool, silk or synthetics that wick sweat away from the body. A little antiperspirant on the soles of your feet won’t hurt, either!

Après-Ski Boot Care

One of the leading causes of boot breakdown is moisture left in the lining or shell of your boots. Over time, this moisture can harbor bacteria, which causes funky foot odors and can even lead to bacterial or fungal infections.

Your best defense is to dry your boots as quickly as possible. Use of a Williams Direct Dryer has been proven to eliminate 99.95 percent of bacteria and leaves your boots comfortably dry. Many skiers choose wall-mounted boot and glove dryers with space for multiple pairs of equipment at once, so the whole family can enjoy the benefits. Each dryer comes with the choice of warmed or ambient air to help dry even the most delicate equipment. All models also come standard with an automatic shutoff timer, so they are safe to leave unattended.

Packing Tips

Make sure your boots are bone dry before packing them in a suitcase or putting them away for the season. Keep your boots in a room temperature environment away from direct sunlight. It is important to protect your boots from temperature fluctuations. Never store your boots outside! This can degrade the plastic shell and reduce performance on the slopes. We also recommend buckling your boots before packing them away to ensure that they keep their shape.

When to Replace Boots

Many plastic materials will not show visible signs of wear, even if the integrity of the boot has been compromised. For this reason, most ski professionals recommend replacing your boots every three to four years. If your boots are used rarely, then you may be able to extend this timeframe for added use. It is important to note that you should also check your soles before heading out to the slopes. You can often replace worn out soles independently of the boot, which will help preserve your investment and keep you safe on the slopes.

Check your buckles and clips regularly for cracks or repairs that need to be made as well. Fixing things quickly can help prevent problems from getting worse.

Prepare for your next ski season right now. With the proper care, it is possible to get many seasons out of the same pair of boots. It’s all about removing moisture, preventing damage and storing your boots carefully until the next season comes around.

Interested in learning more about getting dry ski boots? Contact our team to discuss the ways Williams Direct Dryers could change your life.