WINTER GEAR REVIVAL: ESSENTIAL TIPS TO REFRESH CRUSTY LAST SEASON GEAR

Hey all - Tanner here (if this is your first time at the Lodge, check out our past posts here).

As the snow begins to fall and ski season approaches, it’s time to bring your winter gear out of hibernation. Those layers, skins, skis, goggles, and helmets that have been gathering dust in your basement or gear room for the past 6+ months need a little TLC before you head up to the mountains again. Taking a few simple steps now will ensure your gear performs at its best when you need it most.

This year might not be the year you finally nail your super G turn or get the confidence to hit that 20 footer you see everyday. But, taking care of your gear can eliminate that excuse and actually prolong the life of your most coveted pieces of gear. And let’s face it, if you don’t do it now, you’ll probably remember 3 months into the season and say to yourself “I’ll just do it next year”. . .

1. Check Your Outerwear’s Waterproofing

Your bibs and jacket have likely seen their share of sweat and weather, and their waterproofing may have worn down over time. Before you realize your gear isn’t repelling water mid-storm, check the fabric’s integrity. If the water isn’t beading on the surface like it used to, it’s time for a wash. But don’t just toss it in with your regular detergent (NEVER DO THAT)—use a product like Nikwax, specifically designed to clean technical outerwear without stripping away waterproof coatings.

2. Revive Your Goggles with Fresh Lenses

Let’s be honest—how many times have your goggles been thrown into your pack or back seat without their protective pouch? If your lenses are scratched, fogging up, or have seen better days, consider replacing them with new ones. At Glade Optics, we offer a range of replacement lenses for every light condition, ensuring you’ll have clear vision on those crisp, bluebird days or during a surprise snowstorm. Plus, it’s always good practice to store your goggles properly moving forward to keep them scratch-free.

3. Get Your Skis Ready to Glide

Your skis have likely lost some of their edge and glide since they were last used. A pre-season tune-up—sharpening the edges, waxing the bases, and filling any gouges—will ensure they’re ready to rip when the first powder day hits or help you actually carve really well on those early icy grommers. If you’re a DIYer, now’s the perfect time to break out the tuning kit. If you buy a $75 tuning kit like I did, you'll end up saving money in just two seasons. Watch a YouTube video, waxing your skis is one of the easiest chores out there. Edging requires a touch more finese. But if you’d rather leave it to the pros, support small businesses and take them into your local ski shop. We’re big fans of Greenlight over in Breck.

4. Clean Out Beacon Battery Terminals

One often-overlooked but crucial part of preparing your backcountry gear is cleaning out the battery ports of your electronics (especially the life saving ones). When it comes to your avy beacon, after months of dormancy, dust, corrosion, or even old battery residue can build up, affecting your beacon’s performance when you need it most. Start by removing the old batteries, checking for any leakage or residue inside the port. Use a dry cloth or a small brush to gently clean the contacts, ensuring no debris remains. It’s also a good idea to install fresh batteries and run a quick functionality test to confirm your beacon is working at full capacity.

While you’re at it, if you use an electric airbag like the JetForce, charge it up, then go ahead and give it a safety test. Also, for added fun, you can walk up to a friend or partner and pull the handle and give them a good scare when the bag shoots out.

5. Give Your Helmet a Refresh

Your helmet’s job is to protect you, but that doesn’t mean it should smell like it’s been through battle. Most people don't know that Glade helmets come with an Ionic fabric liner which is anti-microbial or forget that the liner is removable that can (and should) be washed once a season. Take a moment to pop out that velcro liner and give it a good wash to eliminate any lingering odors or bacteria from last season. And while you’re at it, inspect your helmet for any cracks or damage that could affect its performance. If it’s been a while since you replaced it, now’s the time to upgrade to something that provides optimal safety and comfort.