As much as we might not want it to, ski season always comes to an end.
When it does, it’s a great idea to protect all that ski gear you spent your hard-earned dollars on and store it properly for the summer months.
While some pieces of gear aren’t as important to properly put into hibernation (coming from someone who has never once put on summer wax…), others you don’t want to forget.
Specifically, it’s important to properly store your avalanche gear over the summer. Improper care of this gear can be the difference in a rescue scenario next winter, and it’s well worth taking a few extra minutes to do.
Avalanche Canada put out a helpful PSA that reminds folks of a few important steps to take when storing their avalanche gear. Tap or click below to watch. Keep reading for more.
First, remove the batteries from your beacon and check for any corrosion in the battery compartment. If there is any present, you can carefully clean the metal contact points with isopropyl alcohol.
Checking the connection pins on your shovel and probe for moisture and corrosion is also a good idea. Lastly, if you use an airbag, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for testing and storage.
While the rest of your gear will certainly benefit from proper storage and preparation, your avalanche gear is likely the most important, given its potential to save your life. Your skis, boots, and outerwear will also thank you for a little pre-summer TLC when you get them back out next winter.
You can check out a full run-down of how to properly store all your gear here, and know that future you will be very grateful to past you.
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Related: 2026 Spring Skiing Essentials: The Gear Worth Packing This Season
