The purpose of waxing is either to create friction, or grip, in the case of kick wax, or to reduce it as with glide wax. The intention with the waxing process is to make the ski base as compatible as possible with the features of the snow surface. However, the snow conditions change with time and temperature.


Even when temperatures remain below freezing, time (hours and days) will progressively deform sharp, classic snow crystals into more rounded forms. We call this transformed snow. The higher the temperature, the faster the trans- formation will proceed. 

Water also plays a significant role. Water molecules surround snow crystals as thin water films even when temperatures are below the freezing point. Above freezing, water plays a greater role as free water mixes with the snow pack. The distribution of water and ice will influence friction and abrasiveness. Therefore modern Swix waxes take into consideration many factors in their formulation and composition. The result is different waxes for different conditions. In this chapter Swix will guide you through the main features of snow and friction to make the choice of the proper ski wax easier.