Chapter 20: Mastering zero conditions in ski waxing

Before we delve into "zero-conditions," let's define what it means. In skiing, zero-conditions refer to a scenario where the air temperature is close to the melting point of 0°C (32°F).

Typically, there is falling or newly fallen snow that is moist, and the tracks become shiny and icy after some skiing. However, it's important to note that temperatures near zero do not always pose the same challenges when waxing. If the snow has gone through one or more cycles of melt-freeze, the consistency of the snow won't change as rapidly around the critical temperature of 0°C (32°F).

When it comes to skiing in certain weather conditions, the waxes used on the skis need to be relatively soft. However, this makes them more susceptible to icing. It can be difficult to find the correct glide wax, but the real challenge is finding the best grip wax. While there are no strict rules to follow, we have some general advice to offer.

As always, the choice of wax depends on snow consistency, air humidity, and temperature. Even small variations in temperature can cause significant changes in snow consistency around the melting point, where ice, water, and water vapor might exist together.

Falling or newly fallen snow around zero usually calls for a soft type of hard wax. Klisters, on the other hand, are too soft. With more transformed snow and when the snow gradually builds up free water, klisters begin to work. Between the extremes of using hard wax and klister, many possible combinations involve thin layers of klister covered by hard wax. The hard wax protects against icing, and the bottom klister works as a cushion, providing an improved grip.

Given that even minor changes in air temperature, humidity, sun, or shade can cause significant changes in snow consistency, it's not uncommon for snow consistency to vary around a ski course.

Therefore, a skier may have to accept having a good grip in some sections of the course and less grip in others. This is still preferable to having the grip wax or klister icing up. Skiers can also take advantage of different snow consistencies outside and inside the classic track to find the place where grip is optimal.