No Fluoro Policy

All fluorinated ski wax substances are banned from Theodore Wirth Park, Columbia Golf Course, Hiawatha Regional Park, and the Chain of Lakes Regional Park – along with at all Loppet Foundation events.

We believe that banning fluorocarbons will have a positive effect on skiers’ health, the environment, and the sport as a whole. Fluorinated wax abrades quickly onto snow and contaminates our soil and water resources, including drinking water. Fluorocarbons are carcinogenic “forever” chemicals that accumulate over time in the environment and in the human body. These chemicals cause or are suspected to cause:

• kidney and testicular cancer
• liver damage
• disrupted cholesterol levels
• reduced fertility
• hormonal disorders
• negative impacts on child development

Furthermore, fluorinated waxes are expensive and difficult for the average skier to use, contributing to a barrier to entry to the racing side of the sport, which is something the Loppet Foundation strives to minimize.

We reserve the right to test skis for fluorinated products. Noncompliance may result in losing racing and/or park privileges.  Thank you for doing your part to make our ski community and trails more eco-friendly and inclusive.