What is ski wax called?

Ski wax is generally known simply as ski wax. However, this broad term encompasses various types, each designed for specific purposes and skiing disciplines. The primary categories are glide wax and grip wax (also known as kick wax).

Understanding Ski Wax Types

Ski wax is a crucial component for optimal ski performance, whether you're gliding down an alpine slope or striding across a cross-country trail. Its purpose is to manage the friction between the ski base and the snow.

Glide Wax

• Purpose: Glide wax is primarily used to minimize sliding friction, allowing skis to move smoothly and efficiently over the snow surface.
• Application: It is applied to the entire base of both alpine skis and cross-country skis.
• Functionality: By reducing friction, glide wax enhances speed and makes skiing less physically demanding, especially on downhill sections.

Grip Wax (Kick Wax)

• Purpose: Also known as kick wax, grip wax is specifically designed to provide on-snow traction. This traction is essential for cross-country skiers, enabling them to propel themselves forward during the "classic" striding technique.
• Application: Unlike glide wax, grip wax is applied only to the "kick zone" or "grip zone" on the base of cross-country skis, typically under the skier's foot. The tip and tail of classic cross-country skis still use glide wax.
• Functionality: When the skier applies weight to the ski, the grip wax interacts with the snow crystals, creating a temporary bond that prevents backward slippage and facilitates forward propulsion.

Summary of Ski Wax Types

To summarize the distinct roles of each wax type:

Understanding these distinctions helps skiers select the appropriate wax for their equipment and the specific snow conditions, optimizing their experience on the slopes or trails. For more detailed information on ski wax, you can refer to the Ski wax Wikipedia page.