It is often said that outdoorsmen are their own worst enemies. Whether it is infighting about opening day or fighting limits meant to protect their favorite fish species, it is sometimes hard to argue with this assessment. However, with the recent attention on PFAS (also known as forever chemicals), it is the outdoor brands themselves that are in the spotlight. The very manufacturers who depend on the outdoors for their livelihoods may be at the top of the list for destroying it.

For many Pennsylvania outdoorsmen, the topic of PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, was not even on the radar until the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission announced the removal of several streams from the stocking list due to contamination. Now, everyone is asking, “How did this happen?” or “Where did they come from?” Although the list of products that utilize PFAS is lengthy, some of the most serious offenders appear to be the outdoor brands themselves.

PFAS are used in so many products that they are not considered commonplace. When states, including California and New York, enacted PFAS bans, multiple industries cried foul, claiming it would be impossible to produce items people depend on without PFAS, which is not considered one of the most destructive groups of chemicals in use. Since its development in the 1950s, PFAS have been instrumental in the production of non-stick cookware, aircraft, and even electronics. But did you know that one of the largest uses is within the outdoor industry?

PFAS are used in so many applications because they provide a wide range of beneficial properties, chief among them is the ability to shed water, grease, oil, and dirt. While this property led to the development of Teflon and similar nonstick coatings, it is also used in the manufacturing of many popular outdoor brands, especially clothing. A recent study I found claims that as much as 82% of outdoor products utilize PFAS. This includes most brands of fleece, jackets, backpacks, and similar items that benefit from being both waterproof and stain repellent. GORTEX, once the pinnacle of waterproofing, relies on PFAS for both exterior treatment and the mid-layer moisture barrier.

Furthermore, it is an edge that many companies are unwilling to forego. Several companies are still fighting the implementation of bans, both here and in Europe, or seeking exemptions rather than developing alternatives. While evidence suggests that textiles treated with PFAS pose little harm to the wearer, that does not mean they are safe for the environment. Once those products are disposed of, either buried at a landfill or incinerated, the PFAS are released into the surrounding soil or air. Eventually, that contaminant leached into the water table or nearby streams. This is one way your favorite trout water can suddenly become unsafe for you and your family to fish.

Like many outdoorsmen, I am still learning what PFAS mean both to me and the environment. I honestly had no idea how many of our everyday products relied on PFAS, but manufacturers knew about it a long time ago. While I might not expect someone who makes airplanes or cookware to care about my local trout stream, I did expect more from those who make a living off my enjoyment of the great outdoors.