The biggest change outdoor clothing has seen in a generation and why it matters

Industry Redesign Driven by PFAS “Forever Chemicals” Restrictions

Outdoor and sailing clothing is preparing for a major redesign across the industry due to new global legislation targeting PFAS (“forever chemicals”). These chemicals are commonly used to make fabrics waterproof.

The video positions this as one of the biggest changes in outdoor gear “in a generation,” with effects extending beyond manufacturers’ materials to how consumers care for and maintain waterproof clothing.

Key Points Covered

PFAS / “Forever Chemicals” Are Being Restricted

• Waterproofing often relies on fluorinated chemicals, frequently described by carbon chain length (e.g., C8).
• These compounds are designed to be durable and resistant to breakdown, which contributes to environmental pollution concerns.
• The USA moved first with a ban, and Europe is now following, forcing companies to change materials and construction methods.

Manufacturers Must Rethink Waterproof Membranes and Laminates

• Because PFAS-based coatings and membranes are central to durability and water repellency, companies are being pushed to rebuild their waterproofing approach.
• This includes adopting PFAS-free coatings and other alternative technologies.

Industry Shift From C8 → C6 → C0 (PFAS-Free)

• The video explains that waterproof performance uses a carbon chain length “grading” system.
• C8 coatings are described as among the most persistent “forever chemicals.”
• C6 replaced C8 but is characterized as less resilient to oils and requiring more frequent reapplication.
• C0 coatings (PFAS-free) are framed as the forward direction, highlighted in Henri Lloyd’s Ocean Pro range.

“Water-Resistant” vs “Waterproof” Depends on Layers and Design

• Water-resistant is described as water sliding off the outside surface, typically via a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish.
• Waterproofing is attributed to membranes, which act as a more engineered barrier.
• Achieving performance requires balancing how layers interact—for example:
  • how DWR influences membrane adhesion
  • how these interactions impact tear strength

Clothing Performance Relies on Layered Systems (“Two Engines”)

The video breaks construction into a layered sequence:

• DWR → face fabric/coating → microporous layers → hydrophilic membrane → mesh

It describes two core functions:

• One part helps repel water on the outside.
• Another helps protect/absorb moisture inside, supporting wetting control and breathability.

Consumer Care and Maintenance Will Matter More

• Since durability in PFAS-free systems may depend on correct handling, the video emphasizes education, including:
  • Rinse the jacket daily after use
  • Hang it to dry naturally
• It challenges the “old school” belief that heavier gear is always more durable, arguing that modern lighter/stretch fabrics can still deliver strong protection (including high waterproof ratings like 30K mentioned in the video).

Broader Framing: A Reset for More Than Just Sailing Apparel

The change is presented as industry-wide, affecting outdoor clothing and broader apparel—described as an “almost reset across the industry,” not only a sailing-specific update.

Presenters / Contributors Mentioned

• Kim Ramsay — Head of Product and Supply Chain, Henri Lloyd
• Unidentified speakers from Helly Hansen — quoted regarding consumer loyalty and messaging about care/durability
• Unidentified industry/interview voices — appearing in Q&A/explanations alongside Ramsay