Hexcel has introduced to the marketplace innovative light weight Modipur polyurethane systems in response to demand for lighter casual touring skis. The main benefits of these systems are their high mechanical properties at low density compared to the wooden core materials currently in use.

Hexcel is also be promoting the very fast curing HexPly M77 epoxy prepreg resin system. This innovative product with cure cycles under 5 minutes provides a very efficient composite manufacturing process for ski and snowboards. Curing in only 2 minutes at 300°F/150°C, HexPly M77 brings significant advantages to the market especially as this reactive system also has a long shelf life of 6 weeks at 23°C. Other features such as a Tg of 120°C/250°F and good adhesive properties (for example when bonding to honeycombs or aluminium) make HexPly M77 highly suitable for large volume production. HexPly M77 is also fully compliant with REACH regulations. Based on HexPly M77 resin system, Hexcel has launched a range of prepregs with glass or carbon reinforcements in multiaxial form - as well as woven fabrics and UD tapes.

Hexcel has a long history as market leader in composite technologies for winter sports applications, supplying prepregs, laminates and polyurethane systems for major brands of skis and snowboards as well as ice hockey sticks.

Hexcel continues to provide strong support to the winter sports market by constantly developing new and improved products to provide a better experience to sporting professionals and enthusiasts alike.