Swix PS10 Yellow Wax
Brand PFAS statement on record, which we have not verified.
Swix says it stopped selling PFAS-containing waxes to the mass market by the 2021-2022 season. We record that as an unverified brand claim.
Brand says: “Swix says it stopped selling PFAS-containing waxes to the mass market by the 2021-2022 season.”
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Hydrocarbon-based ski wax (paraffin/synthetic blend)
Brand disclosure
Brand claims PFAS-free
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
Combustion by-products during hot application
Iron-on application of hydrocarbon wax at 120-150°C can generate low-level thermal decomposition products if the iron temperature is uncontrolled or the wax overheats. Ventilation during use is recommended to minimize inhalation of wax vapor and residual dust.
Skin and eye contact irritation
Molten wax can cause thermal burns on contact; dry wax dust may irritate eyes or mucous membranes if inhaled directly. No known sensitizers or allergens are documented in standard hydrocarbon wax formulations, but individual sensitivities vary.
Ingestion toxicity (accidental exposure)
Paraffin and synthetic hydrocarbon waxes are waxy solids that soften in the mouth but are poorly absorbed if swallowed; they pose low acute toxicity. However, ingestion is not recommended, especially for children, as it can cause gastrointestinal upset or obstruction in large amounts.
Microabrasive particulates from worn base or scraping
Repeated scraping and brushing of dried wax can generate fine particles of wax and ski base material; inhalation of these dust particles during intense maintenance should be minimized with good ventilation and protective measures.
What’s reassuring
Brand-stated PFAS-free
The brand states this product is PFAS-free. We have not verified the claim.
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Heavy metals
No heavy metals (lead, cadmium, arsenic) are typically present in refined paraffin or synthetic ski wax feedstocks. Swix does not disclose mineral composition, but heavy metal contamination in this product class is not on record.
Source, FDA ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
Swix PS10 is a hydrocarbon-based ski wax, typically a blend of paraffin and synthetic waxes designed for glide and base protection. This material class does not contain fluorocarbons, which means it is not a material linked to PFAS in its formulation. Hydrocarbon waxes are inert at normal ski temperatures and do not off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) under typical use, making them chemically stable during application and friction.
The brand's record and disclosure
Swix is a Norwegian sports equipment manufacturer with a long history in ski wax. The brand has publicly stated that PS10 and its wax line are PFAS-free, which aligns with growing regulatory pressure in the EU and Scandinavia to phase out fluorinated waxes. No recalls, safety violations, or contamination incidents are on record for this product. We have not independently verified the PFAS-free claim, but the statement is documented.
How it compares in its category
Ski waxes vary widely in fluorine content; fluorinated waxes (including Teflon-type coating-based) have dominated performance skiing for decades but pose PFAS exposure during application. Hydrocarbon waxes like PS10 present lower concern regarding fluorinated compounds and are increasingly preferred by recreational skiers and eco-conscious consumers. This product sits in the lower-hazard segment of the category, trading some glide performance for reduced chemical exposure.
If you buy it
Apply PS10 in a well-ventilated area or outdoors; even non-fluorinated waxes can generate fine dust during scraping and ironing. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight to prevent degradation. Replace the iron base or wax reservoir if it shows visible discoloration, pitting, or residue buildup that does not clean off. Do not ingest; keep away from children and pets. Wash hands after application.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 72% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Swix has made a specific claim
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More ski & 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.