Are outdoor jackets and rain pants raising your blood PFAS level?
Yes. Frequent users of waterproof outdoor clothing have higher PFAS in their blood.
What's actually in it
Most waterproof outdoor clothing uses a PFAS coating to keep rain from soaking in. The coating is also on shells, ski pants, hiking boots, and "breathable" rain layers. The chemicals don't bind tightly, so they shed onto the skin during use and into wash water.
Older PFAS like PFOA are mostly phased out. Newer short-chain PFAS like PFBS and GenX are still in use and behave similarly in the body.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Ann Occup Environ Med compared PFAS blood levels in adults who wear outdoor jackets often versus people who don't. The frequent users had higher serum PFAS, and the difference held up after adjusting for diet and water source.
The team called outdoor clothing a meaningful, often-missed source.
For everyday rain, pick natural rubber ponchos or waxed cotton jackets. For real outdoor use, look for brands that make PFAS-free waterproof shells, including Vaude, Páramo, and a growing list. Re-waterproof with silicone or wax sprays instead of fluorocarbon ones.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Association between outdoor clothing use and serum perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Korean National Environmental Health Survey cycle 4. | Ann Occup Environ Med | 2026 |
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