The fluor wax ban goes into effect – applies to all Vasaloppet ski races

The reason for the ban is that the fluorocarbons (PFAS) found in the wax are dangerous – for both humans and nature. PFAS is carcinogenic and can cause liver damage, kidney damage, weakened immune systems, and hormonal imbalances.

Controls at competitions
Controls can take place before the start or after the finish. With new testing equipment, it only takes a few seconds to determine whether the wax contains traces of fluorine. If the test result before the start shows traces of fluorine exceeding the limit, the skier will be banned from starting or will have to change skis. If there are traces of fluorine after the race exceeding the limit, the skier will be automatically disqualified.

Cleaning – IMPORTANT!
To be able to compete on skis that have previously been waxed with fluorine products, the equipment must be cleaned of fluorine according to specific recommendations.

It’s also important that there’s not too high a fluorine content on other equipment (such as brushes, ski covers, etc.) that can transfer to the skis. Therefore, the recommendations also include instructions for cleaning waxing equipment and similar.

Read more
FIS “Cleaning methods – guidelines and suggestions” (PDF) >

FACTS/ Vasaloppet and fluor ski wax
– Vasaloppet’s official ski wax service has been entirely fluoro-free since 2019.

– In connection with Vasaloppet’s Winter Week 2023, Testfakta tested several watercourses near Vasaloppet to determine whether skiers’ fluorine waxes contribute to increased levels of PFAS chemicals. Fortunately, the analysis showed barely measurable levels.
Read more about the test (Swedish only) >

Together, we’ll make ski sports fluoro free!