Good ski maintenance can ensure that your skis will see a couple more ski trips before they finally retire. In fact, many frequent skiers get their gears fully tuned every month, especially if they plan on going to the slopes every weekend.

While this can help keep your skis in tip-top condition, it may not be as necessary as you think. Sometimes, all it takes is a waxing job.

Waxing your skis before your ski vacation can reward you with the following benefits:

Protecting your skis. Your skis base and edges come in contact with the snow and are therefore vulnerable to the sharp and abrasive snow crystals and the sun's oxidizing UV rays. As the temperature drops, snow crystals become more jagged and, therefore, more coarse.

Ski wax provides a layer of protection against the abrasive snow crystals and maintains the fluidity of your skis movements.

Speed and faster turns. The friction and the pressure of the skis base against the snow produces a thin film of water which could reduce your skis speed and agility. The layer of wax you have applied on your skis base and edges breaks down the thin film of water, thus helping you turn easier and quicker, and improving the performance of your skis.

But skiers, a few reminders before you embark on one of your ski getaway:
If you haven't skied for a long time, have your skis professionally tuned first to ensure that the wax is absorbed by the base and edge's pores.

The type of wax you use for your skis will depend on the temperature of your ski vacation destination, its current climate and the type of snow you'll be skiing on. Hit the ski shops and check out the labels of the wax first before buying one. They're all coded according to the temperature and terrain of the ski destination.

When storing your skis, it's best to lather a liberal amount of wax i your skis base and edges before putting them away. Store them in separate plastic wraps, but bind them together using a Velcro ski holder. This will ensure that your skis are ready for the next ski season.

Waxing your skis can help make them stay in great condition for a long time. It's also one of the cheapest ways to keep them at their best condition for your ski trips.