Define kick zone

The kick zone, or wax pocket, is the area of the ski base on which the grip wax will be applied. The kick zone should start at the heal of the boot and extend at least 75mm forward the heal of the boot.

Mark each end of the kick zone by drawing a line on the base with your hard wax.

Choose the wax of the day

Wax is chosen based on snow condition and temperature. Use the chart below to help you determine the wax to use

Apply hard wax

Hard wax (a.k.a kick or grip wax) is applied in 4 to 5 thin layers. Lightly "Crayon" the wax onto the kick zone. Cork the wax in to the base between layers.

Tip : It is often best to chill your waxes before use. Leave you waxes outside or somewhere cold. This will help reduce the "globbing" of the wax.

Cork wax

In between your layers of wax you will use a cork to press the new layer of wax in to the base. Firmly press the cork against the base an rub the cork back and forth across the wax zone. Do this until the wax has become smooth.

More resources

Waxing Cross Country Skis

XC Ski Styles & Sizing