How to Care for Your Ski Race Suit

STAY RACE-READY EACH AND EVERY SEASON

YOUR RACE SUIT IS ONE OF YOUR BIGGEST GEAR INVESTMENTS, AND HOW YOU TREAT IT BETWEEN RUNS DETERMINES HOW LONG IT HOLDS ITS EDGE. A LITTLE CARE GOES A LONG WAY TOWARD KEEPING YOUR SUIT FAST, FLEXIBLE, AND RACE-READY ALL SEASON.

WASH SPARINGLY, AND THE RIGHT WAY

Race suits are built from technical fabric that doesn't need frequent washing. Clean it only when visibly soiled or after heavy, repeated use.

Hand washing (preferred): Fill a tub with cold water and a mild detergent. Soak and gently agitate for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.

Machine washing (gentle cycle): Turn the suit inside out first. Use cold water only (30°C/85°F or below) and about 2 tablespoons of mild, technical detergent. Skip bleach, fabric softener, and scent boosters, and never wash your suit alongside zippers, Velcro, or anything with rough edges that could snag the fabric.

*Race suit fabric needs a gentle touch. A technical wash keeps the performance materials intact.*

SKIP THE DRYER

Heat is the enemy of race suit fabric. It breaks down elastic fibers and weakens the technical materials that give your suit its performance edge.

Instead, lay the suit flat on a clean towel or hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated space. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or vents. Let it dry completely before you store it. Any lingering moisture invites mildew and shortens the suit's life.

*Heat breaks down the fabric that gives your suit its edge. Hang or lay in a shaded, well-ventilated space instead.*

STORE IT RIGHT

Hang your suit on a wide hanger, or fold it neatly to avoid creasing. Don't pack it under heavy gear or cram it into a tight bag. Compression over time can affect the fabric's stretch and fit. And always make sure it's fully dry before it goes into storage.

*Store gloves away from your suit. Velcro and rough edges can snag delicate fabric even when you're not wearing them.*

A FEW EVERYDAY HABITS

Keep your suit away from Velcro, gloves, and rough gear that can snag the fabric. Take your time putting it on, especially over boots and pads, so you don't overstretch the seams.

Fix small snags or tears right away with stretch fabric repair tape, or bring it to a ski gear specialist before they become bigger problems.

END-OF-SEASON CARE

Before you pack it away for the off-season, wash and fully dry your suit one last time. Store it in a breathable garment bag, somewhere cool and dry, away from dust and humidity.

Take care of your race suit, and it'll take care of you on race day, run after run, season after season.

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