Key facts
- PFAS chemicals were used in ski and snowboard waxes for over 30 years.
- These chemicals enhanced glide speed for skis and snowboards.
- PFAS were common in competitive racing.
- The chemicals have now been banned.
For more than 30 years, manufacturers of ski and snowboard waxes utilized PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) to improve the glide of skis and snowboards. These synthetic chemicals were highly effective and widely used in competitive racing across various locations. Despite their performance benefits, these 'forever chemicals' have now been banned, although they may still linger in some ski wax rooms.
