We’re finally leaving PFAS behind

From FW25, we are no longer producing waterproof products that contain intentionally added per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS).    

Like many outdoor brands, we’ve been phasing out PFAS from our durably waterproof shell collection for many seasons now, and for good reason: these so-called “forever chemicals” have been shown to pose concerning environmental impacts and health risks. Our fall/winter 2025 collection marks the first season where all our newly produced waterproof gear is PFAS-free—featuring GORE-TEX ePE membranes along with own PROOF™ waterproof technology.  

Victor Adler, our Global Business Development & Sustainability Director, weighs in on this milestone:   

“A journey of phasing out PFAS that was begun more than ten years ago is finally complete. It’s been a process of learning and adaptation, with some setbacks along the way, but now even our highest performing shell products have finally fully transitioned into PFAS-free alternatives.” 

But what are PFAS, what were they doing in our products, and what can you expect performance-wise from our shell range moving forward? Let’s dig deeper.  

What are PFAS, and what were they doing in our products?    

PFAS, aka per- and polyfluorinated substances, is a group of so-called “forever chemicals” including perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) that are very effective at repelling water and fat.  

In the outdoor industry, PFAS have been used widely in waterproof membranes as well as durable water repellent (DWR) coatings, which help maintain breathability and comfort in wet conditions by preventing the shell fabric from absorbing water, dirt, and oil. PFAS are also very long-lasting, which may be great for the longevity of a garment, but—as we now all know—not so great when it comes to the long-term consequences for the environment and human health.   

While concerns over critical performance downgrades once held outdoor brands back from fully embracing PFAS-free alternatives, that is no longer the case. 

How does a PFAS-free shell compare to a PFAS-containing one? 

A shell with a PFAS-free membrane and/or PFAS-free DWR will still do the job of helping you stay dry and comfortable in the rain, wind, and snow. However, since a PFAS-free DWR is not as durable and resistant to oil and water, it may require more frequent care to maintain its water-repelling performance over the long run.  

This means you will need to wash and reactivate your PFAS-free shell more frequently, and reapply DWR as needed. See our care page for care tips and guidance.  

Discover our PFAS-free shell range   

Utilizing waterproof technologies like our own PROOF™ range and our partner’s GORE-TEX ePE, our shell jacket collection is durably waterproof, breathable, and free from intentionally added PFAS. We use a variety of fabrics and techniques when constructing our shell garments to achieve the ideal balance of fit, flexibility, and durability needed for different activities, from hiking to skiing.