As the move toward PFAS-free has been in motion for years, high-performing alternatives have been developed and thoroughly tested to ensure the quality of waterproofing and breathability offered by our outerwear will not be compromised. Our performance standards remain the same without the use of PFAS as they were before.
The key component that you may notice a difference with will be the PFC-Free, C0 DWR finish. ("PFC-Free" and "C0" are common and interchangeable terms you'll see describing DWR that is without PFAS chemicals.)
PFC-Free DWR is effective—it achieves the existing 80/10 minimum performance standard, meaning 80% effectiveness after 10 washes—however, it does interact with oils in a different way. PFC-Free DWR is more susceptible to the degrading effects of oils, which means there will be a need for more frequent maintenance of your outerwear than you might be used to—a fair trade off to ensure we maintain best sustainable practices.
We have you covered with all of the details you'll need, here: 686 Outerwear Care