ANDOVER – Technical textile solution company Polartec has announced the elimination of PFAS (per- and polyfluoralkyl substances) in its DWR (durable water repellent) treatments across its line of performance fabrics. Polartec, a Milliken & Company brand, has developed a non-PFAS treatment which offers zero loss of durability or water repellency as part of its EcoEngineering initiative.
The use of PFAS in outdoor gear is a contentious one and there are regulatory moves afoot in the EU to ban the use of these ‘forever’ chemicals, which are used to provide oil, water and stain resistant properties.
As part of its sustainability efforts, Polartec prioritized performance and longevity as it worked to eliminate PFAS in its DWR treatments. This new weather protection fabric treatment will be used in Hardface, Power Shield, Power Shield Pro, NeoShell and Windbloc products. The technology will also extend to fleece and insulation treatments for greater moisture management on products like Thermal Pro and Alpha.
“Trial results have exceeded even our expectations,” said Mike Rose, Polartec VP of product development. “There is no loss of performance from a water repellency or durability standpoint.”
“Achieving non-PFAS treatments within our product line is an important milestone in our commitment to sustainably made performance fabrics,” added Steve Layton, Polartec president. “It’s the latest step on our journey to an even more sustainable Polartec.”
Over the company’s 30-year history, Polartec has established itself as the world’s foremost innovator of performance fabrics engineered for all conditions. The brand’s dedication to environmentally sustainable products continues to push the market forward. From inventing the process of turning post-consumer plastic into performance fabrics and leading the use of recycled content across all categories––to innovating products with non-PFAS DWR treatments and leading the way in circularity––sustainable science is the innovation force behind the brand.
