Understanding PFAS in Our Product

What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals commonly used in outdoor and ski gear to provide water and stain resistance. Often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment, PFAS have raised concerns for their potential impact on human health and ecosystems.

Why are PFAS used in ski and snowboard apparel?
Ski gear must perform under extreme conditions, often requiring technical fabric laminate membranes and durable water repellency (DWR) to keep you dry and comfortable. Historically, PFAS have been a standard solution for their exceptional performance in creating waterproof, windproof, air-permeable, and stain-resistant materials.

Regulations and Industry Changes
Governments worldwide are introducing stricter regulations to limit or ban the use of PFAS in consumer products, including outdoor gear. Some notable developments include:

• United States: Many states have enacted or are planning bans on PFAS in apparel. California and NY have enacted a ban starting January 1, 2025.
• The European Union: The EU has proposed significant restrictions on PFAS, with potential bans on certain compounds as early as 2025.
• Voluntary Industry Shift: Brands across the outdoor industry are working to eliminate PFAS from their products, adopting innovative, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly alternatives.

Current PFAS Status At Strafe
As the industry standard for many years, some of our products contain PFAS chemicals. Particularly past season products developed prior to the new information on the hazards of PFAS and new legislation regulating PFAS. 

All products containing PFAS that are available for purchase from Strafe Outerwear are labelled as "Made with PFAS Chemicals" under the Tech Specs on each product page.

Because we create gear for demanding alpine environments, our product is exempt from PFAS bans in CA and NY under the severe wet weather exemption. Please reach out to info@strafeouterwear.com for any questions and to request a copy of our compliance certificate.

Our Commitment
We are committed to phasing out PFAS in all our products. By investing in advanced materials and eco-friendly technologies with our ingredient partners, we aim to deliver high-performance ski and snowboard apparel that respects the environment and your health.

Stay tuned as we continue this journey toward a PFAS-free future!