Cross-country skiers used ski wax containing PFAS at the Engadin Ski Marathon 2025. Researchers detected relatively high levels. The products would not actually be permitted.
18.11.2025, 09:46
18.11.2025, 10:18
SDA
The concentration was highest at the starting line above Lake Sils, as reported by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) on Tuesday. This is a cause for concern, as the "eternal chemicals" enter the water when the snow melts in spring.
Officially, PFAS-containing waxes are no longer permitted on the "Engadiner". None were detected in the ten fastest runners. However, a block of wax can last for years and older wax almost always contains PFAS. The scientists are not accusing anyone of malicious intent.
The Empa researchers advise cross-country skiers to buy new ski wax. The health effects of PFAS are not yet fully understood.
