PFCs (perfluorinated compounds) are a group of man-made chemicals used to create water, oil, and stain-resistant finishes — especially in outdoor gear. While highly effective, they30 persist in the environment and are slow to break down.
Traditionally, PFC-based treatments have been used to create durable water repellent (DWR) finishes, helping water bead and roll off clothing and tents. They extend product life and improve performance in wet conditions — but at a cost.
Persistent in nature: PFCs don’t degrade easily, and trace amounts are now found in water, soil, and wildlife worldwide.
Bioaccumulative: Some PFCs build up in human and animal tissue, raising long-term health questions.
Banned in parts of Europe: Regulations are tightening, with many outdoor brands phasing out long-chain PFCs (like C8 compounds).
No. Our in-house and third-party testing ensures all waterproof garments and tent flysheets meet rigorous hydrostatic head and repellency standards — with or without PFCs.
