Just a note from an author with some experience waxing skis but by no means an expert. Getting a good glide (not just walking) on skis is dependent on a number of factors, including equipment, good technique, conditions and proper ski base preparation. When you can get all that working for you, the XC experience is almost magical. Regular attention to the ski base (tips and tails of classic skis and complete base of skate skis) is very important. Keeping the base clean of dirt, pine sap, old wax, goo, dog poo, etc.. and applying glide wax, will make a big impact on your ability to glide. For centuries now applying a solid wax using an iron, followed by scraping and brushing has been the gold standard and still is probably the best but is also very labor intensive. The relatively recent advancements in spray and liquid glide waxes are providing a viable option to solid wax with the advantage of greater ease of application and are worthy of your consideration. The biggest downside is price, but some of the liquid products are getting less expensive. I apply hard wax at the beginning of the season, then every week, clean the base with a glide cleaner, apply spray or liquid wax, let dry (30 min. or longer or even overnight), lightly brush and good to go. End of season will apply a coat of wax and leave on to protect the base from drying out. Not sure about local availability of liquid or spray waxes, but readily available online from companies like New Moon Ski and Boulder Nordic Sport. There are many online videos on waxing to check out as well.

Also great for improving your glide is to attend our ski clinic, tentatively scheduled for Sunday Jan. 22. There you can also talk to some real experts on this subject as well. Welcome your comments and THINK SNOW!