Government regulations regarding whether and how a ski resort can be built vary significantly worldwide. For this reason, we advise our clients to contact the local building authority directly as one of their first steps. This is because a new building or, if applicable, an expansion of an existing facility may require a building permit. We are happy to assist you with this permitting process. Particularly in the EU, environmental sustainability is a top priority. EU regulations stipulate that construction or use that damages existing grass areas is prohibited without a building permit. Therefore, in many places, it is not permitted to lay a continuous plastic ski mat that covers thousands of square meters and destroys the vegetation. Because our mats have a diamond-shaped design, grass can grow through the gaps and thus will not be damaged. Environmental organizations have already permitted the installation of our mats for ski resorts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites!

Green Skiing with our SlopeTrax mats stands for environmental compatibility and sustainability. The mats are made from recycled materials and are, of course, 100% recyclable. A special fleece (DSDF) is laid on the ground to prevent dirt and stones from getting onto the mats. Our SlopeTrax mats are then laid on top of the fleece and secured to the ground with ground pegs. Alternatively, the mats can be laid directly on the grass. The grass will then grow through the mats, holding them firmly in place. Skiers will then cut the grass daily with their ski edges, effectively mulching the lawn. This creates an optimal symbiosis: nature is preserved while skiers and snowboarders can still enjoy their sport. If the intended area is already a construction site, the entire area can be covered with our DSDF fleece. Our SlopeTrax mats are then attached to this fleece, and skiing is ready to begin.

The mats measure 22x22cm and are assembled using our PIOS interlocking system. We've included a 2-3mm gap between the mats to accommodate expansion. Plastic expands in hot temperatures and contracts in cold temperatures. This design allows us to connect larger areas without the mats becoming wavy. Other mat designs on the market that lack this 2-3mm gap can cause the tightly connected mats to ripple at high temperatures, leading to an unsafe ride.

Our mats generally function without water. However, for outdoor use in warm to hot climates, we recommend installing a water sprinkler system beneath the mats. This systematic water spraying significantly reduces friction between the skis and mats. The water also greatly reduces abrasion, contributing substantially to a very long lifespan for both skis and mats. The same effect can be achieved by using our environmentally friendly lubricant, "Slide Liquid." Once applied to the mats, the lubricant acts like ski wax on the ski bases, significantly reducing friction and resulting in faster speeds. If a fleece mat is laid at the start of the slope, which skiers or snowboarders pass over each time they start, the lubricant is automatically distributed across the slope. This eco-friendly lubricant is biodegradable and therefore very environmentally sound. It is also particularly well-suited for indoor use where water is not an option.

Yes. If the ski mat is properly installed, it can be operated for many years. Further expansion of the various service facilities is handled in writing. Most importantly, the lift (chairlift or conveyor belt) back to the start must be installed early. Additional mats can also be ordered later if further expansion is desired. The additional installation follows the same steps as the initial installation.

Yes. The mats can be left in place year-round in elevator entrances, exits, transfer zones, bridges, or tunnels. The mats do not rot, and due to their high UV pigmentation, they only begin to fade slightly after many years. After extended use on the floor, the mats can be recycled normally.

Yes. The ski lifts can choose between two types. LiftTrax FA are preferred by ski lifts to allow skiers to move slowly from the starting gate to the lift entrance. LiftTrax SP are stiffer and have the advantage that skiers can glide quickly to the lift entrance. This also allows for a particularly fast glide onto the slope when exiting the lift.

Many chairlifts have their mountain stations at summits, where strong winds often blow in bad weather. These winds sweep the disembarkation area clear of snow, creating a snow-free surface from the lift exit (usually made of smooth wood) to the start of the slope. After the storm, service personnel typically have to shovel the snow back onto the disembarkation area. With LiftTrax mats in place, the snow remains between the diamond-shaped mats, allowing skiers to glide smoothly onto the slope.

Most cross-country ski trails are designed for long stretches of track for skiing back and forth. Therefore, a width of approximately 4 meters is sufficient for two outbound and two return tracks. The length can be adjusted as needed.

Because the NordicTrax mats can be laid out flexibly, the cross-country skiing track can be installed anywhere. They can be fixed to the ground at several points with ground screws to ensure a secure grip and non-slip surface for cross-country skiing.

Yes. The NordicTrax sliding mats are just as fast as the mats used in the landing area of ski jumps. This ensures a smooth transition from the landing to the outrun area. The ski jumper can land upright with a telemark landing, just like in winter, and continue straight on the mats, even coming to a stop in flight if necessary.