Abstract: Skis are waxed by a heated sole plate 18 with a porous insert 42 which is flexibly applied to the gliding surface and can be shifted in a longitudinal direction. The insert absorbs wax 50 from a tub 48 heated to a pasty consistency. Porous sheet material 46 may be applied between the sole and the gliding surface. The treatment can include the removal of remnants of old wax from the gliding surface, which is absorbed by the sheet material and softened by heating the gliding surface with the sole. The wax penetrates into the micro cavities of the ski bottom coating and any scratches in it, and the sheet material ensures that a smooth, flat and flexible layer is formed on the gliding surface.