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45NRTH and PFAS

Posted on: 08/30/24

Two cyclists ride side by side on fat tire bikes on a snow covered trail

Staying dry is the key to comfort when riding in winter conditions. That’s why many items in our clothing lineup feature water-repellent coatings. Unfortunately, for decades the industry standard for textile water-repellent coatings — including some found in 45NRTH products — has involved perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

A closeup view of a 45nrth Naughtvind jacket sleeve with a colorful molecule pattern overlaid.

What are PFAS?

PFAS are synthetic chemicals containing carbon and fluorine. PFAS have long been used in products ranging from carpet to nonstick cookware to water-repellent clothing. You might have heard PFAS referred to as “forever chemicals,” because they can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down. This means that the chemicals remain circulating in the environment long after products are manufactured, used, and discarded.

The Problem

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the long life and widespread use of PFAS has led to their presence in air, water, and soil all over the world. Current research also suggests that exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals. (Source: https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained)

A pair of 45NRTH Sturmfist gloves are laid on top of a fat tire bike resting on the ground
A rider sits a table writing while wearing a 45nrth Naugthvind jacket and pants

What we're doing

As we learn more about the impacts of PFAS, we acknowledge our responsibility to reduce and eventually eliminate their use in the production of 45NRTH products.

With that in mind, we are phasing out all 45NRTH softgoods products that we know currently use PFAS. We are working closely with our partners to identify new water-repellent technologies for use in our softgoods that is not harmful to the environment or the people that use them. Note that all 45NRTH products are still safe to use and are in compliance with Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations.

A cyclist rides along the lakefront during winter on a snow covered road

We are continually evaluating our products and suppliers to ensure they meet our high standards as a B Corp that aims to keep winters cold and riders safe.

Learn more about PFAS from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pfc