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Eco-Friendly Skiing: Trials Test for Banned Fluor Waxes
17 Dec
Summary
- Ski trials venue changed last minute due to lack of snow.
- New testing stations randomly check skis for banned fluor wax.
- Fluor wax banned for environmental and health concerns.
The national cross-country ski Olympic trials recently relocated to the mountains near Vernon, B.C., requiring organizers at the Sovereign Lake Nordic Club to prepare rapidly. A crucial new element was the setup of ski wax testing stations, a first for the club. This measure addresses the recent ban on fluorinated ski waxes, which were widely used for their superior gliding properties since the 1980s.
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) outlawed fluor waxes due to concerns about the harmful effects of fluorocarbons, a type of PFA often called 'forever chemicals'. These substances pose risks to human health and the environment, impacting various bodily systems. The FIS is now implementing testing across all its sanctioned races.
Despite the ban, wax remains vital for ski performance. Athletes at the Vernon trials competed for 10 spots on Team Canada, using PFA-free wax alternatives to ensure compliance with the new regulations. The Olympics are scheduled to take place in Italy.
