The main purpose of this ban is to protect the well-being of athletes and the environment, considering the link between fluorine and health issues as well as environmental harm. Furthermore, this decision aligns with fostering a fairer sporting environment by eliminating the performance-enhancing aspect associated with fluorinated waxes.

 

FIS and local ski associations are collaborating to ensure a smooth transition for all parties affected by the new rule.

 

While organisers and participants, especially recreational skiers will need time to adapt to the new regulation, the responsibility for compliance rests significantly with the skiers themselves.

 

We will debunk common misconceptions surrounding the ban and provide practical tips on how to remove fluorine residue from skis.

 

Facts and Myths:

 

• The ban applies only to FIS-coded skiers.

No, the rule applies to all FIS competitions, including Worldloppet marathons, and all participants, including recreational skiers.

 

• There is no alternative to fluorinated waxes.

False. Most wax manufacturers are actively creating products that match the performance of fluorinated waxes.

 

• Skis must be replaced because the old ones are contaminated with fluorine.

Not necessary. Skis can be cleaned to eliminate traces of fluorine. Read below for tips on how to clean the skis.

 

• Compliance with the rule cannot be enforced, especially at ski marathons.

Partially true. Checking all 4000-5000 participants at events like the Tartu Maraton is challenging, but a similar challenge exists in doping checks. Every skier should follow the competition rules not just because they might be tested, but for the sake of fair play, as this rule directly impacts everyone's health and the environment. Although it's not possible to test everyone, random checks will still be conducted.

 

• Only elite skiers will be tested.

At FIS events, including the 50th Tartu Maraton, elite skiers may undergo testing using FIS's fast and efficient method, while recreational skiers will not be checked at the 2024 Tartu Maraton.

 

Gear Cleaning Guidelines to Ensure Fluoro-Free Skis:

 

Cleaning Tools from Fluoro Wax

• Start by removing dust from tools using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner.
• Soak brushes in wax remover, clean with compressed air, and, when dry, use a vacuum cleaner.
• Clean scrapers with wax remover.
• Address other surfaces where fluorine residues might be present.
• Clean the waxing iron with fluoro-free wax and dry it with clean paper.

 

Cleaning Skis from Fluoro Wax

• Clean skis at least twice with liquid wax remover. Brush between cleaning sessions and allow the skis to dry.
• Clean skis at least twice with maintenance wax by scraping it off. Use fluoro-free wax and clean tools.
• Choose a suitable fluoro-free base wax and apply it to the glide area.
• Skiing on snow can help remove fluoro waxes. After a few sessions, reapply fluoro-free wax.

 

Cleaning Additional Gear

• Clean ski bags using compressed air and a vacuum cleaner.
• Thoroughly clean wax boxes and drawers with a vacuum cleaner, compressed air, and wax remover.

 

Cleaning Clothing

• Wash clothes and bibs before using fluoro-free products, as fluorine contamination may transfer from them to the skis.

 

Which Waxes to Use?

• Ensure the waxes you use are fluoro-free. Consult wax experts if needed.
• Avoid mixing waxes with additives unless you're certain of their composition.

 

Organizing the Cleaning Process

• Start with larger surfaces like waxing stations and tables before moving on to finer equipment. This reduces the risk of contamination, and the cleaning process won't need to be repeated multiple times.

 

More Information:

FIS Cross-Country Skiing Director's video interview on the new ban.

 

Sources used in the article: Worldloppet website, FIS website, Estonian Ski Association website.