Toko introduces JetStream 2.0 and HelX 2.0
Wed, Nov 19, 2014 - By Ian Harvey
Toko has introduced new versions of Helix and JetStream, and has updated the application method. Take note!
Application of HelX 2.0
Application is different from the old HelX!
Spray on HelX evenly throughout the base. Let it dry for a few minutes. Ready to go!!
Avoid corking and polishing: the finish is as good as it will get. An "unfinished" HelX 2.0 application is smoother and "more finished" than a polished old HelX application. This is because the HelX 2.0 is extremely fine (small particles) making it both faster and more durable (gets "into" the base more and is more difficult to "knock off"). Because HelX 2.0 is far more durable, it is now viable for all Nordic races - far more than the last version.
Liquid topcoats such as HelX 2.0 are generally a disadvantage in dirty snow
Application of JetStream 2.0
There are many ways to apply JetStream 2.0 much like any other bloc or powder product.
Ironing JetStream
With the JetStream 2.0 waxes, the iron needs to be hotter (320f+/160c+).
Rotocorking JetStream
The application is similar to the previous JetStream products except that if ironing, the iron temp needs to be hotter (160c+).
After much testing, we have identified a method of application that has tested fastest overall. Starting after about 30kms in abrasive snow, the traditional iron-on powder method becomes faster. (that means if you are doing a 35km race in abrasive snow, the traditional iron-on method will be faster for about the last 5km).
This technique was tested for use in dry powder snow, wet new snow, and both clean and dirty corn snow. Testing included multiple testers using a blind testing method over many testing days including dramatically different conditions (all of the main conditions covered) with double blind skis (there were doubles of the same wax and preparation methods so as to expose inconsistencies).
We tested it for durability and dirt resistance as well as without skiing it in and it was as good or better as all other methods in any condition which is noteworthy because some methods are better in some kinds of snow than others.
We are comfortable recommending this method for all Nordic ski racers from weekend warriors to the highest level.
JetStream 2.0 Iron-on with Fiberlene Application Method
We are assuming that the skis have had the appropriate HF wax applied, scraped, and brushed out well.
- Set iron to 320f (160c). This is full blast on the T14 Digital Iron. If you have an iron that goes hotter, you can go as hot as 190c.
- Rub as much JetStream bloc as you can on the base.
- Take a strip of fiberlene and hold it under the base of the iron such that when the iron comes onto the ski, the fiberlene will be between the ski base and iron base thus insulating the ski base and preventing "sticky spots".
- Iron the ski from tip to tail in a slow pass (20-30 seconds)
- Inspect the base. The base should look mostly black with small white areas. If most of the base is white, take another pass concentrating on the white areas. If the base has become very hot, let it cool before taking the second pass.
- Brush out with Nylon Polishing Brush. Polish with Thermo Pad.