How to Remove Kick Wax

Kick wax enables cross-country skiers to kick off into a smooth, advancing glide.

Kick wax, which is a combination of paraffin wax and resin, provides traction so cross-country skiers can push or kick off into a smooth forward glide. Kick wax is applied in front of and behind the boot area on older types of cross-country skis: the kind with smooth undersides. Taking it off is straightforward and easy. Since kick wax does not penetrate skis, it can be gently scraped off when it becomes gunky or when you need to apply a different wax to suit the weather conditions.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic scraper
• Citrus solvent
• Paper towel or lint-free rag

Instructions

Removing Wax

1. Turn your skis upside down. Scrape the surface of your skis where the wax is applied with a plastic scraper. Don't push down too hard because that could damage the surface of your skis.

2. Pour a small amount of citrus solvent onto a rag or paper towel. Rub the skis to remove the remaining wax. Allow them to dry.

3. Lightly sand your skis with a fine grit sandpaper.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use a metal scraper for this procedure because it could damage your skis.

References

• Nordic Ski Racer: Just Say No to Wax Remover
• Tokous: Basic Manual
• Telemark Tips: Waxing and Skinning
• Omer and Bob's: Kick Zone Determination Waxing Guide

Resources

• Apex Web: Kick Wax