FAQs

WEND SHIPPING & RETURNS FAQS

How quickly will my order ship?

Orders placed during business hours (M-F 8am – 3:30pm PST) are typically processed and shipped within 24 hours. Orders placed on Saturday or Sunday will be processed on the next business day. Once your order has been processed and shipped you will receive an email that contains your shipping tracking details. If your order cannot be shipped within 10 business days, it will automatically be cancelled and a full refund will be immediately initiated.

How long will it take to receive my order?

All domestic orders within the US take between 2-6 days for delivery after the order has been completed. Orders to destinations outside the US have a standard time frame of 21 days not including any holds your country’s customs department may place on your package. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee a delivery timeframe for any international order. 

How much does shipping cost? 

When you place an order, we will estimate shipping and delivery dates for you based on the availability of your items and the shipping options you choose. Depending on the shipping provider you choose, shipping date estimates may appear on the shipping quotes page.

Please also note that the shipping rates for many items we sell are weight-based. The weight of any such item can be found on its detail page. To reflect the policies of the shipping companies we use, all weights will be rounded up to the next full pound.

Can I return my order after receiving it?

You may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc). For details on return policy and process, please visit our Returns page. 

 

WEND SKI & SNOWBOARD WAX FAQS

Is Wend wax natural?

Wend snow waxes are natural, non-toxic, and biodegradable, derived from naturally-occurring hydrocarbons. Our waxes (and their individual components) are eliminated in the environment through microbial populations, primarily through bacteria & fungi. Unlike PFOA’s that never biodegrade, hydrocarbons disperse and emulsify into the environment to speed up the biodegradation process.

What are PFOAs? Why are fluoro waxes banned?

PFOA, or Perfluorooctanoic Acid, is a fluorocarbon molecule present in fluoro-wax, and it’s a non-naturally occurring substance. For decades, it was the most effective method for increasing durability, speed and hydrophobic performance in ski wax. Yet, it also has the most environmental impact. Fluoro waxes release harmful gasses when melted into skis, and they are the most persistent synthetic chemicals known – shedding from ski & snowboard bases into the snowpack, lingering in mountain environments, and showing up in pristine watersheds as a non-biodegradable, toxic molecule. Once large quantities are in the body, it takes decades to get them out – even if you were no longer exposed to them. These fluorocarbons are toxic, non-biodegradable and have been linked t o serious health risks including cancer.

All of Wend’s current wax products (NP Performance, MF Natural, MF Performance, MF Race, NT Race, Speed Sphere, and Speed Boost) are fluoro-free, so you can be sure that no PFOAs will be released into the environment, whether from the manufacturing process, application, or use of Wend snow wax.

Are there other natural ski waxes available in the industry?

Yes. Our competitors have attempted to follow the natural, biodegradable route for performance snow wax with soy-based & other vegetable. However, these alternatives often perform poorly, lacking durability and glide. There is currently no comparable natural additive to Wend’s Meadowfoam products when it comes to achieving efficient speed and long-lasting glide. If you don’t believe us, try it yourself!

What is Meadowfoam?

An exclusive component of Wend ski & snowboard wax, our Meadowfoam seed oils and waxes are derived from the seeds of commercial Meadowfoam flowers (Limnanthes alba) grown in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Meadowfoam seed oil is a fully-refined triglyceride composed of over 98% fatty acids with chain lengths of 20 carbons or more. The wax is a light-colored, odor-free product prized for its exceptional oxidative stability and functionality in a wide range of products and formulations. Wend has exclusive use of Meadowfoam, which meets and exceeds industry standards & our standards for durability and repellency in high-quality snow wax.

Why is Meadowfoam better?

It is truly unreal how there is a visible difference in wax absorption with the Meadowfoam products, with an action of “transferring” wax into the pores. For example: When using a high-concentration Meadowfoam product like our MF Natural Liquid Hot Box on skis or snowboards left base up, you can see the oil levels penetrating deep into the pores. Often times there will be some areas of deeper penetration where the oil has completely absorbed into the base. Increasing the amount of Liquid Hot Box creates a more consistent look to the base. You can also visually see when a base is burned, as the oil does not penetrate, and it leaves a glossy area in the base. When hot wax is applied over any MF Natural liquid wax product (Base Cleaner & Conditioner, Liquid Hot Box, or Liquid Juice), the molten wax heats the liquid oils and lubricates the wax. This process enables the wax to get deeper into the pores as the oil rises to the surface. This transfer provides deeper penetration as well as more wax absorption into the base.

How are Wend’s NP and MF Performance waxes different from other competitors?

Wend’s All-Mountain Performance waxes are formulated to provide great glide, more resistance to snow contaminants, excellent wax penetration and increased base protection for all-mountain skiing and snowboarding. These products are available in two precisely-crafted groups: NP Performance (100% natural plant-based wax) and MF Performance (paraffin with Meadowfoam® seed wax) blends for all temperature ranges and snow conditions.

For those looking to avoid paraffin wax or wanting a 100% plant-derived product, Wend NP Performance waxes use only plant-derived ingredients for high-performance glide and durable base protection that’s completely petroleum-free. Applied as a liquid towelette or paste wax in a broad Universal temperature range, NP Performance wax saturates deeply without ironing. Wipe on, let dry, brush, and polish for fast, all-natural glide in a wide range of conditions.

The mainstay of our wax line, Wend’s MF Performance wax blends are unique compounds in comparison to the regular paraffin waxes. Our proprietary blend of paraffin and exclusive Meadowfoam® seed oils and waxes provides deeper base penetration and exceptional hydrophobic properties as a natural alternative to hydrocarbons. These waxes are natural, biodegradable, non-toxic, and mountain/stream/soil-friendly, giving you ultrafast glide without nasty additives.

How do I find the best wax for my conditions?

We have various waxes for different air temperatures (see our detailed charts here). If you’re unsure about conditions, the wide temperature range and excellent performance of our Universal wax formula (10° to 40°F / -12° to 4°C) is always a safe default.

Our All-Mountain waxes provide durable, high-performance across the full spectrum of conditions from deep winter to summer riding:

• UNIVERSAL: 10° to 40°F / -12° to 4°C, for old, new & artificial snow.
• WARM: 28°F / -2°C & above, for wet & artificial snow.
• MID: 10° to 28°F / -12° to -2°C, for new, mixed & artificial snow.
• COLD: 10°F / -12°C & below, for cold, dry snow.
• XCOLD: 0°F / -18°C & below, for colder, dryer snow.

For the best glide in the most challenging conditions, we also make a couple specialized formulas in our Graphite and Base Prep waxes:

• GRAPHITE UNIVERSAL: 10° to 40°F / -12° to 4°C, for old, new & artificial snow with electrostatic friction, dirty snow, or melt-freeze conditions.
• BASE PREP UNIVERSAL: 10° to 40°F / -12° to 4°C, for storage, saturation, or preparation before conditions-specific race wax.

Our Training and Racing waxes use higher concentrations of Meadowfoam, Nano-Tech and natural additives, which give them slightly different temperature ranges from our All-Mountain waxes. These waxes have a deeper range in Cold and XCold particularly: Race Universal: (10-40°F) Designed for old, new and artificial snow.

• UNIVERSAL: 10° to 40°F / -12° to 4°C, for old, new & artificial snow.
• WARM: 28°F / -2°C & above, for wet & artificial snow.
• MID: 14° to 28°F / -10° to -2°C, for new, mixed & artificial snow.
• COLD: -5° to 14°F / -21° to -10°C, for cold, dry snow.
• XCOLD: -5°F / -21°C & below, for colder, dryer snow.

For detailed wax temperature information, please see our wax temp charts here.

What temperature should I use to melt the wax with an iron?

With unique formulas and varying wax hardness, our waxes use different suggested iron temps, specially-recommended to each individual wax. Please review the recommendations found on our Wax Temp & Iron Temp charts here.

General iron temperatures for our waxes range between 230-275°F / 110-135°C Always work in a well-ventilated room, and you should not heat the wax to the point where it is smoking. The wax on the base of the skis should not exceed 225°F / 107°C to get the saturation penetrated into the skis. Wax should then be scraped off the skis at room temperature.

If you can’t use a dedicated waxing iron with a temperature selector, we suggest using a temperature gun for a precise reading on the iron. You can get these at most tool supply stores, like Home Depot or Grainger.

My iron was smoking while melting Wend wax. Are there any hazards I am susceptible to?

Wend waxes use natural Meadowfoam blends, and do not contain PFOA’s. The liquid oil in Meadowfoam has a flash point greater than 572°F  / 300°C, so there isn’t any acute hazard relating to heating. The hydrogenated Meadowfoam oil should have a smoke point of 456°F / 236°C and a flash point of 510°F / 266°C. If the oil does begin to degrade, anything released will be comparable to the degradation products released during cooking or frying, so there aren’t concerns. The wax is composed primarily of triglycerides of arachidic acid and behenic acid. These materials are present in common food materials and are used broadly in personal care and industrial applications.

What about allergies?

Since the wax is derived from fully refined vegetable oil, allergenic proteins aren’t present.

Are there any skin/eye irritation concerns when using Meadowfoam wax?

Wend’s paste wax and liquid wax products are non-toxic, but they may cause irritation with prolonged skin contact or eye contact. In case of skin irritation, wash with soap & water. In case of eye contact, immediately flush eyes with clean water for 15 minutes. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; contact poison control/physician.

Wend’s hotmelt/rub-on waxes are non-toxic; however, do not eat or chew. Always exercise caution when working with an iron to wax your equipment, taking care to avoid burns.

WEND BIKE WAX FAQS

WAX-OFF CHAIN CLEANER FAQS

How do I fully clean a chain before waxing?

For the most thorough cleaning possible or cleaning multiple chains, a Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner loaded with water and Simple Green works best and is cost effective. This process works well for waxed chains too as long as the temp is 131°F / 55°C.

For easier, more convenient chain cleaning, our Wax-Off Chain Cleaner provides you with a sophisticated blend of citrus-based solvents, waxes, and other key ingredients to cut wax quickly, while leaving behind a trace amount of wax for protection. This is the preferred method to clean if you don’t have a heated ultrasonic cleaner.

Before you wax any chain, always begin with a clean and dry chain!

How would you recommend cleaning your cassette, chain ring and derailers when using the Wend bike wax?

Our Wax-Off Chain Cleaner is designed to work specifically for our Liquid Lube and Original Chain Wax systems. Wax-Off cleans the wax off your drivetrain beautifully. Degreasers tend not to work well, since the wax will need a solvent-based cleaner to cut… Wax-Off Chain Cleaner uses a citrus-based solvent in the formula that works very well. We’ve also had customers brush off the cassette with a brass brush which is soft enough to not damage the cassette but strong enough to brush away any wax residue.

WAX-ON LIQUID CHAIN LUBE FAQS

How many applications will I get from 4oz bottle of Wax-On Liquid Lube?

Our 4oz bottles of Wax-On Liquid Lube (Dry, Wet, and E-Duro formulas) will provide approximately 40 applications per bottle.

How often should I reapply Wax-On Liquid Lube?

We recommend reapplying Liquid Lube every 150-300 miles of riding, depending on weather conditions and the condition of the chain and drivetrain.

Do I need to clean my chain between re-applications?

A full chain cleaning is not necessary between each reapplication, but that may depend on your riding conditions and climate. If riding in wet and/or muddy conditions, you should always clean your chain and reapply Liquid Lube post-ride to maintain full protection of your drivetrain against rust and buildup.

How does Wax-On Liquid Lube work in different conditions?

In dry conditions, Liquid Lube offers excellent performance. Our Dry formula delivers exceptional lubrication and protection to shed dirt and heavy dust.

In rainy conditions, Liquid Lube provides the performance of a waxed chain without the hassle or mess of melted wax. Our Wet formula is specifically designed for damp, wet riding conditions to enhance lubrication, repel water, prevent rust and accumulation of dirt and mud. If using in muddy conditions, simply clean your drivetrain and reapply Liquid Lube post-ride.

How should I store my Wax-On Liquid Lube?

Wax-On Liquid Lube should be stored at room temperature in its bottle.

Can I use Wax-On Liquid Lube for a chain bath?

Liquid Lube should only be used in drip application from its bottle, as it will dry out if not bottled. For full wax submersion, please use our hot-melt wax products.

Can Wax-On Liquid Lube be used with your current chain wax paste? 

Yes, it is compatible.

Can Wax-On Liquid Lube be used with oil-based lubed chains or with waxed chains (straight paraffin or molten speed)? 

Liquid Lube is only compatible with our Wax-On bike chain products. For chains treated with other lubricants, thoroughly clean your chain first, and then apply Liquid Lube.

How long does Wax-On Liquid Lube need to dry?

Liquid Lube should sit until it is dry to the touch. Exact timing will be climate-dependent, but in most conditions, it will be around 10 minutes.

My chain is super stiff after the Liquid Lube dries; did I do it wrong?

No, after a few revolutions while riding, the chain will break in. You did it right! It’s stiff at first because the Liquid Lube wax has gotten deep in the rollers.

Will Wend waxes work on my mountain bike?

Wend’s Wax-On products (Liquid Lube and Original Chain Wax) work great on mountain bikes! Made as a dry wax formula, they really excel in dusty environments. For mountain biking, it’s crucial to get proper saturation of the chain. The way the wax is designed to work is to shed dust and dirt, while leaving a coat of wax on the chain. Of course, if you’re getting caked in mud, your chain will too. But it should be easier to clean with Wend wax applied first, which will keep your chain lubricated longer for trail rides.

WAX-ON ORIGINAL CHAIN WAX FAQS

What are the advantages of Wend’s bike waxes over other ordinary lube products in the market?

Wend’s main differentiation is the ability to get a clean, quiet, efficient, dry drivetrain with an easy, rub-on application. The wax can be deeply worked into the chain and rollers for exceptional lubrication.

I noticed some wax build-up on my chain; how can I remove it?

A little bit of wax build up is normal, but you can limit this with the amount of wax you apply. Our Wax-Off product works well when applied to a microfiber towel, running the chain through the saturated towel. If there is still build-up on the chain and bike, personally we like to use a stiff nylon brush to clean pulleys or even a brass brush to clean the cassette. The warmer the wax the easier it is to clean.

I’ve just purchased your rub-on bike chain wax. Do I need to apply to it to the chain rings, or just the chain?

You only need to apply our wax to the chain. Focus on working the wax deep into the rollers; the deeper the wax penetrates, the better the performance will be. Here is another technique we like to use on a clean, dry chain for the initial application:

I have a brand-new chain with a factory coating on it. Do I need to remove this before applying your chain wax?

If you are using our hot-melt wax and dipping your chain, just leave the factory oil on the chain and submerse into the wax for a few minutes while agitating.

For the rub-on wax method, it’s best to clean all factory oils from the chain prior to waxing.

I'm using the wax on my chain for stationary rides and noticed some wax falling off onto the floor. Is this normal?

Yes, this is normal for Wend… the wax is designed to shed as it’s being used. This helps rid the chain of contaminants as well as reduce wax build up.

How often do I need to re-wax my chain?

Waxing intervals will always vary depending on conditions and drivetrains. We’ve gotten feedback from cyclists with SRAM Red 22 chains and 11-speed Shimano DuraAce chains riding 300-500 miles between applications!

Personally, we like to apply wax every 5 hours of ride time, using more aggressive application methods to help the wax penetrate into the chain for those stubborn rollers. Since no two chains are the same it’s difficult to assess over the internet… we always say to use sound as an indicator of needing to wax again.

How do I use Wend’s Hot-Melt Chain Wax?

We like this short video demonstrating proper technique: 

From our experience, we would add the following notes:

• Be sure to clean the chain thoroughly before hot waxing! We recommend an ultrasonic clean.
• The crock pot is low temp and requires up to 3 hours to fully melt the wax.
• You can put a little water in the base of the crock pot to help with conductivity and that will speed up the melting process.
• Let the chain soak in the wax for at least 2 minutes while agitating.

How hot does my melter need to be to hot-wax my bike chain?

Low melt temps are the key to a good hot wax. The wax should never go over 230°F / 110°C, so a low-temp melter like a crock pot is ideal. If you have the time and space to do it, hot waxing is by far the best way to wax. Just make sure you degrease the chain fully before hot-waxing.

On our test rig, our hot-waxed chains can run for 1,000 miles silently.