Did you know the waterproof coating on your hiking boots, backpack, tent, or other outdoor gear could be shedding toxic “forever chemicals”?
Since the 1940s, outdoor brands (and many others) have used PFAS to make products more resistant to water, oil, and grime. But these chemicals don’t break down over time (hence the nickname “forever chemicals”). Instead, they build up, polluting ecosystems and showing up in our blood. They’ve also been linked to serious health concerns like cancer and hormone disruption.
The upside? More and more brands are ditching PFAS, and states have begun banning them in consumer products. Choosing gear from companies that have already banned or are phasing out these chemicals is a simple way to reduce your exposure—and lessen your environmental footprint.
In this guide, I’ll give you a list of brands that have already ditched this toxic chemicals so that the next time you’re in the market for some new non-toxic outdoor gear, you know where to look for safer options.
RELATED: Here’s where to find PFAS-free, natural, and non-toxic sleeping bags!
This guide covers:
- Good News: States Take the Charge To Remove PFAS From Consumer Goods
- More Good News: Flame Retardants Are No Longer Required in Tents
- PFAS-Free Hiking Boots (& Shoes) and Outdoor Backpacks
- Non-Toxic Tents Without PFAS or Flame Retardants
- Extra Waterproofing Products
- Want to Learn More About How to Reduce PFAS?
- 🍋 Join Thousands of Subscribers Reducing Toxic Chemicals
This guide contains product recommendations and we may receive compensation if you purchase through certain links. As always, we only make recommendations that are genuine!
Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, PFAS are now ubiquitous in our environment. Therefore, when we say “PFAS-free,” what we really mean is that PFAS are not intentionally-added to products. Technically, it’s still possible that minimal amounts of PFAS can make their way into products through manufacturing. However, the recommended brands below are making every effort to avoid PFAS in every way possible.
Also, you’ll notice that in other places on The Filtery, we recommend avoiding synthetics when possible (like with clothing and bedding, for example). When it comes to outdoor gear, however, we take a different approach. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon can help provide water-resistance, prevent mold/mildew growth, and last a long time. In our opinion, it’s better to have a PFAS-free synthetic tent, for example, than a tent made from organic cotton but that is either treated with toxic PFAS or can’t hold up to the elements.
Good News: States Take the Charge To Remove PFAS From Consumer Goods
In recent years, many states have started banning intentionally-added PFAS in several categories of consumer goods.
Some of these bans are still in the process of being rolled out. And some of them do not apply to high-performance outdoor gear. But the point is that in general, PFAS seem to be are on their way out of consumer goods! I have a feeling that in the next ten years, the majority of outdoor gear brands will have switched to safer alternatives.
In the meantime, the brands below are already paving the way!
More Good News: Flame Retardants Are No Longer Required in Tents
California used to have a law requiring flame retardants in camping tents, but in 2023, they removed that requirement.
These types of state-based laws often become de facto national laws. So as a result of the updated regulation, most tents available to U.S. consumers will no longer be coated with harmful and unnecessary chemicals.
PFAS-Free Hiking Boots (& Shoes) and Outdoor Backpacks
KEEN
What they carry: Hiking boots and other footwear for adults & kids
KEEN is a leading US maker of sport sandals and hiking footwear. Its hiking boots and shoes are a popular choice for day hikers, comfortable enough to wear all day but sturdy enough to withstand the elements.
KEEN was the first major footwear company in the US to ban PFAS in all its products, keeping its promise to provide customers with “forever shoes, not forever chemicals.” It took KEEN a few years to work the kinks out of its supply chain, but by 2018, all its products were PFAS-free. You can read about Keen’s inspiring “detox journey” in its downloadable Green Paper.
Abbie’s Review: My husband and I both have a pair of KEEN hiking boots and we love them! My husband actually had a hard time finding a pair of hiking shoes/boots that didn’t hurt his feet and ever since he’s had the KEENs, he’s been super happy. We’ve done a lot of hiking in them. They are super comfortable and hold up well in the mud. We both have mid-weight ones, so they have a good amount of ankle support but they aren’t super heavy/bulky either. I can’t recommend KEEN enough, to be honest.
Which KEEN products are PFAS free: All KEEN products manufactured after 2018 are PFAS-free, including its kids’ shoes, which meet the same standards as all the other products.
Fjällräven
What they carry: Backpacks, jackets/coats, clothing
Based in progressive Sweden, Fjällräven was among the first producers of outdoor gear and apparel to move toward eliminating PFAS. But like other companies, its process of going PFAS-free had a few bumps along the way. It required finding non-toxic waterproofing alternatives that could repel moisture in extreme weather conditions and coordinating numerous players in supply chains.
Fjällräven produces a wide range of backpacks for outdoor and everyday use. The packs are not cheap, but they offer superior performance and tend to make customers very happy. One reviewer even penned an ode to her bag in The Strategist entitled, “The Best Thing I Bought This Decade Was My Fjällräven Kanken Laptop Bag.”
Our Review: We don’t have any Fjällräven backpacks, but my (Abbie) husband does have a Fjällräven winter coat and several clothing items from the brand. He really like them all, but especially his coat. It’s super warm, comfortable, practical, and timeless. Definitely recommend.
Which Fjällräven products are PFAS free: All of Fjällräven’s products are now PFAS-free. The company did have a hard time finding a suitable alternative for its waterproof zippers, which was the last piece of the PFAS-free puzzle. However, Fjällräven has informed us that they have now fully transitioned to PFAS-free waterproof zips!
Where/how to purchase Fjällräven backpacks: To purchase Fjällräven tents and other products, you can shop directly on the website. Otherwise, use the store locator for local shopping options.
Osprey
What they carry: Backpacks and packs of various sizes for adults and kids
Our Review: Abbie’s husband has an Osprey Atmos AG 65, which he got from REI (where they put you through a whole fitting process to make sure you’re getting the best option, size, etc.)
He really likes it. One of his favorite features is the mesh back panel, which not only helps to keep the weight off your back, but also provides a really nice amount of airflow so that you’re not drenching your shirt with sweat!
ALL of Osprey’s packs are now made without PFAS, and as far as I can tell, they are all bluesign® approved too, which means the manufacturing process is free from a list of toxic chemicals.
(Many of their packs do come with a Prop 65 label for dimethylformamiden (DMF), though, which is not ideal. DMF is mostly a concern for folks with interact with it in industrial settings. Personally, I’m not nearly as worried about DMF as I am about PFAS, so I’m still happy we purchased this pack and I would buy it again, all things considered.)
Osprey has a really wide variety of packs for men, women, and kids—whether you’re looking for a a regular backpack for school or basic commutes, something more intense for camping trips, or something in the middle!
Which Osprey products are PFAS free: All of them, as of spring 2022.
Where/how to purchase Osprey backpacks: You can shop directly from their website, as well as retailers such as REI and Mountain Equipment Company.
Patagonia
What they carry: Backpacks & other daypacks of various types/sizes for adults (+ a couple for kids), clothing, accessories
I’m sure you know about Patagonia—they’re like the most well-known outdoor brand in America and have a huge collection of products. They have various sustainability initiatives woven throughout their company, from a secondhand marketplace and repair program, to giving back to environmental non-profits.
Which products are PFAS-free: As of spring 2025, all of their new products are PFAS-free. So, you might want to be careful of products from older collections. If you have any questions about a specific product, don’t hesitate to reach out to them!
Arc’teryx
What they carry: Hiking boots (& other footwear), Backpacks (day and multi-day), clothing, accessories, climbing gear
This Canadian company was originally founded back in 1989. They specialize in outdoor apparel and equipment but they also make everyday streetwear.
Which products are PFAS free: As of April 2025, the Arc’teryx website says, “The majority of our products are now PFAS-compliant, with the remainder of the Arc’teryx product line transitioning in the coming months.” If the product details say “FC0 DWR finish”, you’re good to go. If you’re unsure about a specific product, don’t hesitate to reach out to them and ask!
Danner
What they carry: Hiking boots & shoes, work boots, military & law enforcement boots
Danner is a company based in Oregon that’s been around since 1932. This is one of the only brands that also offers PFAS-free boots for military and law enforcement.
Which products are PFAS free: Danner’s whole collection is NOT PFAS-free as of spring 2025. But they do have their PFAS-free options labeled accordingly, making it easier to shop. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you’re unsure about a specific pair!
Jack Wolfskin
What they carry: Hiking shoes/boots (and other footwear) for adults and kids, hiking pack and other types of packs, outdoor clothing, jackets, and accessories
Founded over 40 years ago in Germany, Jack Wolfskin is known for its environmental responsibility and innovation, which harnesses the power of German engineering, technology, and design. It was one of the first outdoor clothing companies to ban PFAS from all its products, having been totally PFAS-free since 2019.
Jack Wolfskin makes sturdy waterproof footwear for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. The shoes offer high levels of durability, stability, and traction according to a recent review. In addition to women’s and men’s shoes, it offers children’s and unisex options.
Which Jack Wolfskin products are PFAS free: All Jack Wolfskin products including its footwear are entirely PFAS-free.
Unfortunately, Jack Wolfskin stopped selling their products to customers in the US via their website. But you can get them on Amazon, use their store finder, or search other retailers such as Moosejaw/Public Lands.
Customers in other countries can purchase Jack Wolfskin footwear directly from the website.
Icebug
What they carry: Hiking boots/shoes and other footwear in men’s & women’s sizes
Icebug was founded by a mother and son in 2001. Their whole goal was to create boots and shoes with really good traction, especially in winter weather. They have all kinds of sustainability initiatives throughout their supply chain. In addition to being fully PFAS-free, they are also a certified B Corp and a member of 1% for the Planet (like us!). They use FSC certified rubber, work with transparent factories, are regularly trying to reduce their carbon footprint, and more.
Which products are PFAS free: As of 2024, all of their products are PFAS-free.
Deuter
What they carry: Backpacks and other bags of all shapes & sizes
Founded in Augsberg, Germany in 1898, Deuter produces durable and reliable nylon and polyester backpacks for hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, and travel, some of which have laptop sleeves. The company is known for producing solid bags that last a very long time and is committed to environmental sustainability. It has been a PFAS-free company since 2020.
Which Deuter products are PFAS-free: Deuter has been a PFAS-free company since 2020.
Where/how to purchase Deuter backpacks: Dealers in many parts of the world carry Deuter products, including the popular outdoor retailers REI and Decathlon. Search for a store near you or purchase products from Deuter’s online shop. Delivery is via DHL or DPD if you live in Europe, with free shipping for orders over 50 euros.
Ortovox
What they carry: Backpacks, outdoor apparel, emergency adventure equipment
Gerald Kampel and Jürgen Wegner founded Ortovox in 1980 as a supplier of avalanche-safety transceivers, and the company began producing its first backpacks in 1985.
Today, the company continues to produce mountain safety equipment along with a range of high-performance mountaineering and hiking backpacks and men’s and women’s apparel made with sustainably sourced merino wool.
Ortovox has always been about outdoor safety, so it comes as no surprise that the company would take a stand against using toxic chemicals in its products.
Which Ortovox products are PFAS free: As of 2024, 100% of Ortovox’s products are PFAS-free. Ortovox backpacks have been PFAS free since 2020.
Mammut
What they carry: Hiking & mountaineering boots (+ other footwear) for adults, backpacks, climbing & avalanche equipment, sleeping bags
Mammut was originally founded for “mountaineers”, so they have all kinds of PFAS-free gear for climbers, skiiers, and more. But they also have plenty of shoes and gear for regular hikers and other adventurers too! (They are very explicitly “not streetwear” though.)
Which products are PFAS-free: Some, but not all. Mammut has been transitioning their collection to PFAS-free but is still in the process. They say their goal is to be 100% PFAS-free by the end of 2025. Look for the “PFC-free DWR” label on the product page. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them about a specific product if you’re unsure!
Vaude
What they carry: Backpacks, sleeping bags, jackets, apparel (for adults & kids)
Vaude is a family-owned German outdoor brand. They have various sustainability and transparency initiatives throughout their supply chain, from Fair Wear Foundation membership to biodiversity initiatives throughout their manufacturing locations.
Which products are PFAS-free: All of their backpacks, shoes, and apparel is currently PFAS-free. The last thing they are still working on transitioning to PFAS-free is their tents. Their current goal is to have them PFAS-free by the end of 2025.
Non-Toxic Tents Without PFAS or Flame Retardants
These brands offer PFAS-free tents:
Fjallraven
Fjällräven’s line of PFAS-free tents may not be extensive, but it’s certainly impressive according to Outdoors Magic. The tents are in three families: light Abisko tents, which are ideal for backpacking; more durable Keb tents for year-round use; and Polar tents for extreme winter weather conditions.
Which Fjällräven tents are PFAS free: All of them!
Six Moon Designs
Six Moon Designs is an Oregon-based brand that offers lightweight, high-quality, and affordable backpacking equipment. In addition to a bunch of other sustainability initiatives, they have a goal of being completely PFAS-free by 2025.
They’re switching from PFAS to a silicone-based coating, so you can find out if a specific tent is PFAS-free by looking at the product details. (It will say something like “Ultralight Waterproof Canopy is made from high strength 20 denier Silicone Nylon.”)
In addition to tents, they also carry backpacks and hiking umbrellas. It’s not clear to me which of these products have made the transition to PFAS-free, so I’ve reached out to them to ask. I’ll update this if/when I hear back from them!
Nemo
NEMO was born after its founder Cam Bresinger spent a sleepless night on the side of a mountain braving wind gusts in a cruddy tent. Bresinger launched Nemo in 2004 and quickly began winning awards for his innovative design of outdoor gear. Today, NEMO is known for creating tents that optimize weight, livability, and durability.
Which Nemo tents are PFAS free:
See this list for which NEMO tents are also flame retardant free.
Where/how to purchase Nemo tents: Shop for tents on the NEMO website or locate a dealer near you.
The Tent Lab
Mike Secot-Scherer founded The Tent Lab to offer his unique handcrafted tents to the world. His state-of-the-art tents represent the best design and technology in the industry. They are as non-toxic as possible, free of all PFAS and noxious fire-retardant chemicals. The company is run on a platform of socially and environmentally responsible business practices. On the policy section of its website, you can view a comprehensive list of the company’s “banned baddies” as it refers to them, meaning the harmful chemicals it avoids.
Which Tent Lab products are PFAS free: The company proudly states that its tents are free of “PF anythings.”
Where/how to purchase The Tent Lab products: Purchase tents directly from the website. The company ships to the US, Canada, South America, the UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Shipping costs are higher to destinations outside the US.
ZPacks
ZPacks’ non-toxic camping tents are made from a waterproof, PFAS-free fabric called Dyneema®.
They say: “Dyneema Composite Fabric is naturally waterproof and is not treated with any potentially harmful chemicals such as flame retardants or water repellents. Our shelters are all PFC/PFAs free.”
They mostly have options for 1 and 2-person tents.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes has been in the process of phasing intentionally-added PFAS out of their products for a while now, and they’re almost there. They committed to no intentionally added PFAS in their products beginning in 2025. That means that most of the new products are PFAS-free, but some of the older versions may not be.
If you look at the product details on the camping tents (under Materials), it says “a water-repellent finish without intentionally added PFAS.” So you should be able to tell if the specific product you’re looking at is PFAS-free or not.
They have a pretty good range of options, from 1-5 person capacity tents, 3-season tents, car-camping, everyday use, etc.
In addition to tents, they also carry backpacks, sleeping bags, apparel, and accessories.
Diamond Brand
They carry scouting and glamping tents, not necessarily your standard camping tent. At least some of them are PFAS-free, but it’s not clear which items in their current collection are. I would reach out to them and ask if you’re interested in buying from them!
Extra Waterproofing Products
You could also use a PFAS-free spray or wash-in product that provides waterproofing without relying on fluorinated chemicals. The following companies offer PFAS-free spray-on or wash-in products.
Want to Learn More About How to Reduce PFAS?
If you found this article useful and want to learn more about PFAS and how to reduce them in your home, check out my PFAS Masterclass.
This 5-day mini course provides easy-to-follow video lessons on PFAS misconceptions, how to avoid greenwashing, how to “detox” from PFAS, and more.
Everything is delivered right to your inbox, along with a list of recommended PFAS-free products and an Action Sheet with actionable steps to help reduce your PFAS exposure.
