Our goal: PFAS-free by fall/winter 2025

Our goal is to have our entire range PFAS-free* from fall/winter 2025 - including all membranes, details and components.

To achieve this goal, we consider all PFAS variants in the materials, components and end products as part of our product management.

A list of banned substances and our sourcing guidelines define our chemical requirements and ethical standards. In 2023, this list was updated and now complies with the requirements of the AFIRM (Apparel and Footwear International RSL Management Working Group).

 

What are PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group (over 14,000 different substances) of chemical substances. They are used in numerous branches of industry due to their beneficial properties. PFAS are persistent and persistent chemicals that are associated with negative effects on humans and nature. However, due to the large number of different substances within this group, it is difficult to identify clear links between the individual chemicals and the risks to human health and the environment.

What are fluorocarbons?

Fluorocarbons are the chemical basis of the PFAS group. These chemicals are also used in numerous industries - from electrical cables to coated cookware. They are used in the clothing industry to ensure water-repellent properties.

The chemical structure is based on a chain of carbon atoms to which fluorine atoms are bonded. Fluorocarbon-free chemicals also use carbon chains, but hydrogen atoms are usually attached to their ends instead of fluorine atoms.

 

What is the difference between PFC-free, fluorocarbon-free and PFAS-free?

PFAS comprise the entire chemical class of fluorocarbons.

PFC stands for per- and polyfluorinated chemicals and is a common industry term. However, a more precise term is "fluorocarbon-free", which we have adopted.

 

How can I determine whether a product has a fluorocarbon-free DWR or is PFAS-free?

From the 2024 winter collection onwards, we will indicate whether a product has a fluorocarbon-free DWR and whether the product is PFAS-free*.

To ensure that a product is actually PFAS-free, our team carefully checks all materials and additives used throughout the production chain of each individual product.

 

Is C8/PFOA/PFOS still used in the products?

We have completely phased out the use of C8 hydrofluorocarbons in our PWR products after concerns were raised about this chemical class.

PFOA and PFOS are by-products of C8 chemistry and are not used in the manufacture of our products.

What are PWRs?

DWRs stand for Durable Water Repellents and are chemical finishes that are applied to the fabric to repel water. They help to maintain the breathability, comfort and performance of textiles in wet conditions.

What type of DWR is used for the products?

We currently use both fluorocarbon-based PWRs (C6) and fluorocarbon-free PWRs, depending on the product, application and performance requirements. However, in collaboration with our partners and through extensive performance testing, we are increasingly using fluorocarbon-free PWRs.

Are the membranes PFAS-free?

Some of the membranes in our winter 2024 collection contain PFAS. However, we are actively working with our suppliers to change this. Our Drilite membrane is PFAS-free, with the exception of Zeno products.

In 2023, we launched the Makalu Jacket and Pant, the first PFAS-free GORE-TEX products (with an ePE membrane) on the market.

Product care

Proper care of your garments, including regular washing and drying, as well as occasional re-waterproofing, is crucial to ensure the performance of fluorocarbon-free DWRs.

This preserves the water-repellent properties and comfort of the product in the long term.

Although PFAS-free technologies also offer good water repellency, these garments are less resistant to stains and grease/oils. Regular care of DWRs is therefore essential to ensure optimal product performance and breathability.

Read more about PFAS in our PFAS policy document.

*PFAS intentionally added as they are consistent with current law (e.g. California AB 1817, Colorado SB24-081).