The new membrane technology, called ePE by Gore, is an alternative to the company’s ePTFE membrane, which is made with PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.
” the new membrane is made without PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), but GORE-TEX® items generally have a second waterproofing treatment, a surface coating known as durable water repellent (DWR) made of PFAS. The first products using this new PFAS-free membrane will be available for purchase in late 2022.
Gore has not yet publicly committed to eliminating all PFAS from manufacturing GORE-TEX® or DWR treatments used on GORE-TEX products.
Chemical companies sell PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) for application to paper and textiles as stain-resistant, water-repellent, and grease-proofing treatments. A growing body of scientific research has found links between exposures to PFAS and a wide range of health problems, including a weaker immune system, cancer, increased cholesterol levels, pregnancy-induced hypertension, liver damage, reduced fertility, and increased risk of thyroid disease.
A recent peer-reviewed study by Toxic-Free Future found PFAS in 100% of breast milk samples tested and that newer PFAS build up in people, which is alarming.
Products featuring new ePE membrane will be introduced in a selection of consumer-end uses, including general outdoor and lifestyle garments, lifestyle footwear, and snow sports gloves from select customers including Adidas, Arc’teryx, Dakine, Patagonia, Reusch, Salomon, and Ziener.
