Voelkl · Ski & Winter Sports Wax
Holmenkol Cross Country Ski Grip
Unknown grip composition. Insufficient data to assess PFAS risk.
Holmenkol Cross Country Ski Grip material composition is not publicly disclosed. No PFAS claims or certifications identified. Low confidence assessment due to lack of transparency.
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Material
Synthetic polymer grip compound, composition unspecified
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Unknown / proprietary coating
Proprietary coating with no disclosed chemistry.
Category baseline
other is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
Holmenkol Cross Country Ski Grip is a synthetic polymer compound applied to ski poles to improve traction and control. The exact polymer formulation (elastomer type, additives, fillers) is not publicly disclosed by Voelkl or the manufacturer. Synthetic grip materials typically use rubber or polyurethane-based compounds, which may contain plasticizers, colorants, or UV stabilizers. Without compositional transparency, full chemical risk assessment is not possible.
The brand's record and disclosure
Voelkl, owned by Arpon Group, does not publish detailed material safety data or chemical composition for grip products. The brand has no publicly documented safety recalls or controversies specific to grip formulations. No third-party certifications (e.g., bluesign, OEKO-TEX) are advertised for this ski grip. Disclosure of PFAS use or avoidance has not been made public.
How it compares in its category
Ski grip compounds vary widely; some use cork or rubber hybrids (lower chemical risk), while others rely on synthetic elastomers (higher additive load). Holmenkol is a reputable manufacturer of ski waxes and maintenance products, but grip-specific safety information is rarely disclosed by any ski brand. This product sits in an industry where compositional transparency is uncommon across competitors.
If you buy it
Wash hands after application and use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation or leaching from temperature stress. Do not heat or immerse in hot water; synthetic grips can degrade and release compounds. Replace the grip if visible cracking, peeling, or discoloration occurs, as these signs indicate material breakdown and possible chemical exposure during use.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
Phthalates or other plasticizers
Synthetic grip polymers commonly contain plasticizers to maintain flexibility. If phthalates are used, prolonged skin contact during repeated use could pose low-level exposure, particularly if the grip degrades. No testing data is publicly available for this specific product.
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) off-gassing
New synthetic polymer grips may emit VOCs during initial use and storage, particularly in warm conditions. This is typically short-term and decreases with time. Adequate ventilation during storage and early use is advisable.
Skin irritation from undisclosed additives
Synthetic grips may contain colorants, UV stabilizers, or antimicrobial agents not disclosed publicly. Individuals with sensitive skin or contact dermatitis may experience irritation with prolonged hand contact. Patch testing or glove use is recommended if sensitivity is known.
Material degradation and leaching over time
Synthetic ski grips are known to degrade under UV exposure, temperature cycling, and friction wear. As the material breaks down, small particles and leached additives may be released. Regular inspection and timely replacement prevent this.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 35% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
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More ski & winter sports wax grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.