Autoglym Polar Blast Snowfoam Review

What We Say

What is it:

Taken from the Autoglym website description of the product; Polar Blast is a snow foam available in a 2.5 litre which can be applied using a pressure washer or foam gun as a pre-wash stage. It covers the vehicle in a rich blanket of foam that clings to paintwork to gently loosen dirt and heavy soiling prior to shampooing.

This reduces the risk of scratches and swirl marks caused by a sponge or wash mitt moving over heavy contamination.

Its pH neutral formulation will not remove any existing layers of polish or wax.

How we Tested it:

We were kindly sent 2.5 litres of Polar Blast by Autoglym to put to the test. We have used it on both protected and unprotected vehicles of various soiling, primarily observing cleaning power, economy and general effectiveness as a pre wash.

We Liked:

• Very long dwell time. We found we could leave the product as long as 20-25 minutes on the vehicle. Ideal if preparing other aspects.
• One of the strongest cleaning snow foams we have used to date. Clearly lifted soiling and made removal of soiling significantly easier.
• PH Balanced making it wax and coating safe in use.

We Didn't like:

• Rival brands offer 5 litre offerings rather than the 2.5 litres here for similar price points which perform very effectively.
• Uneconomical compared to rivals. Have to use 200ml in the average snow foam lance compared to most commonly 100ml of rivals.
• Smells a little chemical. Not the most enjoyable to use of snowfoams.

Overall:

We are surprised it has taken this long for Autoglym to join the snow foam market but it is clear that a lot of research and development has gone into the performance of the product as an effective pre wash. On that front, it is one of the best performing snow foams we have tested. Whereas some snow foams can often leave you feeling its all gimmick and no performance, Polar Blast has a real bite to it in terms of effective cleansing.

Our issue comes with the pricing and value for money. Up against very popular rivals such as KKD Blizzard which offer 5 litres for a similar price and with a more economical usage dilution, it becomes hard to justify Polar Blast. With such established players in the pre wash market, whilst Polar Blast may find popularity among existing Autoglym fans, we wonder if it will struggle to persuade others to switch from existing brands. A good value 5 litre offering could be a game changer.

We have been told by some 'diy motorists' that they like Autoglym Polar Blast's ability to effectively remove dirt and grime from the vehicle's surface. They say that it "creates a thick, clinging foam that lifts dirt, making it easier to rinse off before a full wash".  This reduces the chance of causing swirl marks or scratches on the paint during the main washing process.

We've also been told by others that "it may not be as effective in removing more stubborn dirt and grime compared to some competitor products". This means that in some cases, a more thorough wash or a second application might be necessary for particularly dirty vehicles...