Snowboard

Open your bag as soon as you get home. Wipe away snow and moisture, including around the edges and bindings. Let the gear air-dry in the shade.

Check the base if it looks chalky or feels slow on snow. For new gear, check the condition of the factory wax first.

Choose a glide wax for the snow temperature. Hot-wax a clean, dry base with a dedicated iron at the wax maker’s setting. Keep it moving. Let the wax cool, then scrape with plastic and brush tip to tail.

Distinguish light scratches from deep gouges. A gummy stone can gently remove light surface rust.

Have a shop check exposed core or a bent or lifting edge before riding. Ask a technician before filing an edge if you don’t know its bevel.

Check screws, straps and ratchets for looseness or cracks. Follow the model’s manual for tightening or replacement. Have a shop check any binding that won’t latch securely.

Wear snowboard socks, tighten the laces evenly and bend your knees. Check both feet for curled toes, heel lift and pressure on the instep. Reconsider the size or model if it hurts.

Check that the liner supports heat molding. Ask a boot fitter to assess pressure points and perform the work. Improvised heating with a home oven or heater can damage materials and adhesives.

Clean and dry the base and edges. Leave storage wax on and scrape and brush it before your first run next season. Store gear somewhere dry and out of direct sun.