PFAS "Forever Chemicals" in Outdoor Gear
PFAS are a group of over 10,000 chemicals that we call “forever chemicals” because of their ability to persist and accumulate in the environment and in the bodies of living things.
They’re widely used in outdoor gear for their stain- and water-repelling properties. However, research has linked them to a range of health concerns.
Understanding what they are and what products they’re found in can help you make safer choices when shopping for outdoor equipment.
What Are PFAS "Forever Chemicals"?
PFAS stands for “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances,” which are a group of synthetically manufactured organic chemicals.
They get their “forever chemicals” nickname because of their incredibly strong, nearly indestructible carbon-fluorine chemical bond. That bond makes them extremely resistant to degradation, which allows them to accumulate in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years.
There are over 10,000 different types of these chemicals used for various industrial and consumer products, varying from paper products to high-quality trekking gear.
Why Are PFAS Used in Outdoor Gear?
PFAS are commonly used in outdoor gear because they provide performance features that are difficult to achieve with other materials.
They’re especially valued for their ability to:
Repel water, helping gear stay dry in wet conditions
Resist oil and stains, which keeps fabrics cleaner for longer
Maintain breathability while still offering weather protection
Extend the lifespan of materials exposed to harsh outdoor environments
Because of these properties, PFAS are often found in products like jackets, shoes, pants, tents, sleeping bags, and gear used for hiking, skiing, bicycling, and hunting camp essentials
These performance benefits are why PFAS became widely adopted in outdoor gear, even as concerns about their environmental and health impact have grown.
What Health and Environmental Risks Are Linked to PFAS?
The problem with PFAS is their nearly indestructible nature and their widespread use. It doesn’t break down by sun, water, or microbial action as most chemicals do.
This has resulted in them now being found virtually everywhere on the planet, in our soil and water, and even deep in the Arctic, far from sources.
From the environment, it gets into the bodies of living things, where it concentrates because living things cannot break it down either.
Humans are no exception. In fact, studies have found that PFAS can be detected in the blood of 97% of Americans.
Apart from their accumulation in our bodies, why should we be concerned about these substances?
It’s because they can cause a wide range of health effects, depending on the chemical in question. The US EPA lists the following potential health effects based on peer-reviewed studies:
Decreased fertility
Increased high blood pressure in pregnant women
Low birth weight, accelerated puberty, behavioural changes, and abnormal bone development in children
Increased risk of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers
Reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections or respond to vaccines
Interferes with hormones
Increases cholesterol levels and obesity risk
While we may not be able to clean up the PFAS in our environment ourselves, we can use eco-friendly products on our outdoor adventures to help do our part. This includes looking for gear made with safer materials and choosing cleaner energy solutions for camping and outdoor activities.
For example, battery-powered portable power stations, like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Classic Portable Power Station (1024Wh), can provide electricity without the emissions or fuel use associated with traditional gas generators, helping reduce your overall environmental impact during outdoor trips.
What Products Commonly Contain PFAS?
There are many products that contain PFAS, but here is a by no means exhaustive list of some of the most common sources:
Waterproof rain jackets, pants, and hats
Ski pants and jackets
Shoes
Outdoor clothing
Tents and sleeping bags
Ski and surf wax
Fire extinguisher foams
Chrome plating
Electronic devices
Certain paper products, like waterproof paper and some Post-it notes
Grease-resistant food packaging like microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers
Stain- and water-repellent carpets, furniture, and clothing
Non-stick cookware
Paint, varnish, and sealants
Certain shampoos, dental floss, and cosmetics
How Can You Avoid PFAS in Outdoor Equipment?
If you enjoy the outdoors or are seeking gifts for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s important to be mindful of the materials used in the products you buy.
Look for Safer Materials
Check out the materials used and prioritize products that advertise natural oils or other non-toxic materials to repel water.
Be Aware of Labeling Limitations
Most manufacturers don’t list PFAS on their products. If they do, it’s often under trade names or specific chemical names, not “PFAS”. Manufacturers aren’t currently required to include warning labels.
Watch for Changing Regulations
Some regions are beginning to require more transparency. For example, New Mexico is introducing PFAS warning label requirements. Many reputable manufacturers have already phased out PFAS or plan to do so, though others have not.
Research Brands and Products
The best way to identify PFAS-free products is to research manufacturers and specific products online.
Be Cautious With Certain Claims
Be careful with labels like:
“Waterproof”
“Stain-repellent”
“Dirt-repellent”
If the label doesn’t explain how these properties are achieved, look it up online.
Contact Manufacturers if Needed
If information isn’t available online, contact the manufacturer directly so you can better understand what you’re buying, and signal demand for PFAS-free products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does PFAS Mean?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, synthesized "forever chemicals" that break down exceptionally slowly thanks to their incredibly strong carbon-fluorine chemical bond. This allows them to accumulate in the environment for hundreds or thousands of years.
Are PFAS Harmful to Humans?
Yes, PFAS accumulate in our bodies, and scientific studies have shown they can carry serious reproductive, developmental, and immune system risks and may cause certain cancers. Additional studies have shown that as many as 97% of people in the United States already have them in their blood.
Reducing PFAS Use Helps Protect Health and the Environment
Reducing our exposure to PFAS starts with understanding where they come from. Then, we can start buying outdoor and household products that don’t contain them and reduce our intentional exposure while supporting cleaner, safer manufacturers.
For those looking to make more environmentally conscious choices overall, switching to cleaner energy solutions — like battery-powered alternatives at home to traditional gas equipment — can also help reduce your environmental impact.
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