- 1). Determine what type of skier you are when choosing a wax. Ski wax come in two main forms. They are hydrocarbon based, or they are hydrocarbon based with additional additives. For the recreational skier, applying a coat of hydrocarbon wax will do the trick for the season. For the more competitive skier, you will want to choose a hydrocarbon wax with additives which make the skis faster. There are different additives depending on the skiing conditions.
- 2). Determine the skiing conditions on the day when you will hit the slopes. For instance, on a day with dry or warm snow where dirt might be mixed in, Molybdenum wax contains a graphite additive which will enhance friction and repel the dirt. On days when the snow is wet and heavy, a fluorocarbon wax may be in order. The fluorocarbons repel water strongly allowing the ski to stay stop the snow rather than sinking into it.
- 3). Check the temperature when you will be hitting the slopes. Some waxes are rated by the temperature in which they will be used. A red hydrocarbon wax is ideal for temperatures above 25 degrees Fahrenheit, a green hydrocarbon wax is best in temperatures below that threshold and a white hydrocarbon wax is a good all-purpose option for the recreational skier.
- 4). Check the conditions of the mountain. Serious competitive skiers also look at other factors such as the humidity, wind and sun to determine which type of wax to use on their skis. If a good deal of the mountain is in the shade, then a wax suggested for colder use is recommended. The more humid the air, the more moisture in the snow and vice versa. In this instance use a wax that is recommended for wet or dry snow, respectively.
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