Ironed Powder Application

Ironing Glide Powders

Fluor powders are OUT and fluor-free powders are in! This how-to is for fluor-free powders which are actually quite different than the pure fluor powders we use to use on our race skis. Fluor-free powders do not require crazy iron temperatures and do not produce as much smoke. Fluor-free powders are usually paraffin-based and melt like a normal hot wax. Today's fluor-free glide powders are much easier to apply and less hazardous to the waxer's health. The downside is they are a lot slower than pure fluor on-snow in wet or and dirty conditions.

How-To Video

Step-by-Step

1) Begin by making sure your skis are clean. Scraped then brush gently with a steel or brass brush.

2) Clean your entire base with a liquid base cleaner or wax remover. Wipe as much dirt and dust off with Fiberlene or a shop towel.

3) Using a piece of Fibertex, energetically rub down the entire glide zone to remove any microscopic hairs or burrs in the base. Pink paper is also great for this. Then, repeat step 2 with a liquid base cleaner or wax remover and wipe away the dirt & dust. Let the solvents dry before continuing. Your ski is now clean and prepped for the hot wax.

4) Preheat your iron to the temperature recommended by the wax manufacturer for the particular powder you will be using. Temperatures for powders waxes are usually between 120C and 160C.

5) Tap a line of powder up and down the ski on both sides of the groove.

6) Using the iron, stamp down the powder to quickly melt it into the base. Be careful not to let it rest in one place for too long.

7) Give the powder one more quick pass with the iron to make sure the wax melts evenly over the ski base.

8) Use a groove scraper to remove wax from the sidewalls and the ski's groove(s). Let the ski cool. 5 minutes.

9) Using a sharp scraper, scrape off the excess paraffin. Scrape like you mean it, but don't press too hard. Angle the scraper forward and place your thumbs behind and at the bottom of the scaper. Scrape from tip to tail.

10) After scraping, pass a steel or brass brush 5-6 times using light pressure. Start at the tip and move to the tail.

11) If you like, you can polish the base using a horsehair and/or nylon hand brush or nylon roto brush.

12) Consider finishing your ski by adding structure with a rill tool if there is a lot of moisture in the snow, or if it is very cold or dry, finish the ski with pink paper or a structure tool for cold snow.

Products for Ironing Glide Powders

57 products

Ski Waxing Safety Measures

When applying ski wax products, it's crucial to prioritize safety to minimize exposure to potentially harmful dust, fumes, or residues. By implementing proper safety measures, you can enjoy a safe and successful waxing process.

Follow these Safe Waxing Guidelines:

  1. Choose a Well-Ventilated Space: Opt for outdoor waxing whenever possible to ensure proper ventilation. If indoors, make sure there's adequate air exchange, such as using range hoods or fans. Notify waxing facility staff or race organizers if ventilation is lacking.
  2. Use A Respirator: The ski waxing process produces smoke, dust and fumes. Respirators that cover your eyes are best and check the cartridges for a fluorocarbon rating. Be mindful that smoke from waxing irons & waxing machines, dust from scraping and brushing, evaporating solvents in liquid waxes, dust from wool-apply waxes, and fumes from heating grip waxes and klisters are all present in the wax room. 
  3. Minimize Skin Exposure; Wear Gloves: Chemical compounds present in various wax types can be absorbed through the skin. Wearing gloves not only keep your hands clean, but it is essential to reduce exposure to potentially harmful compounds.
  4. Limit Wax Room Access: Ensure that only authorized individuals involved in the waxing process are present in the wax room.
  5. Proper Wax Waste Disposal: Dispose of wax shavings and dust responsibly by collecting them in a plastic garbage bag.

Prioritize Safety for Your Well-Being and the Environment

With a commitment to responsible practices, any wax can be utilized safely while minimizing harm to both your well-being and the environment. By adhering to the recommended safety protocols every time you enter a wax room and equipping yourself with the appropriate safety gear, you can confidently achieve optimal results and fully enjoy the performance of your fast skis.

Remember, your safety is paramount, and responsible waxing ensures a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Enjoy your skiing adventures to the fullest!