Tips

Kick Waxing Tip: Testing

• Apply each kick wax to be tested fully. Apply the 4, 5 or 6 layers as will be raced on. Layers too thin will give a bad test.
• Let the skis cool outside for 10 to 15 minutes for proper testing.
• Ski for several minutes with the test wax. Give it a real evaluation.
• Ski more than just around the wax hut. Your race course is not around the wax hut.
• Test in areas reflective of the entire race course: flats, hills, shade, sunny, windblown, ...
• Remember that grip is needed more to go up a hill than glide going down. It is a function of where you will spend more time and energy.
• Do not be afraid of rejecting test wax if you have followed the above advice.
• Remember that while you may have "perfect technique" during the testing, you might not by the middle or end of the race. If the wax job needs perfect technique then it is likely not good enough for grip.

We have seen coaches under pressure apply a single layer of kick wax and have a racer test it immediately. The results from the evaluation were not surprising! Follow the title on the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: DON'T PANIC! Doing it right inspires confidence in the skis and wax. This confidence extends to the skier. A confident skier races better. Confidence counts for a lot. Don't panic, do it right.

If you have a waxing tip please share it with us. We are always happy to receive waxing tips to help improve everyone's skis.