One of Helly Hansen’s major focus areas is to prevent leakage of chemicals into the environment and our waters.
We have paid a lot of attention to PFAS chemistry over the last eight years. Traditionally, PFAS chemistry is applied in order to achieve oil and water repellency on fabric surfaces. However, this has been proven harmful for nature and living organisms, so we are therefore phasing out PFAS chemicals from our products. Helly Hansen is in close cooperation with research institutes and chemical suppliers of PFAS-free DWR treatments.
Helly Hansen’s focus when replacing PFAS is the assurance of durability and the environmental profile of the substitute. Thanks to the industry’s dedication to phasing out PFAS and heavy R&D work, there are now PFAS-free treatments which are up to standard and can replace the PFAS chemistry when it comes to water repellency.
PROACTIVELY REDUCING PFAS SINCE 2014
Helly Hansen has been proactive in addressing PFAS regulations, transitioning from C8 to C6 DWR in 2014 and introducing C0 (PFAS-free) DWR in Kids, Junior, and Lifestyle categories by 2018. Today, the vast majority of our products are PFAS-free, with only a small number of products built for use in extreme outdoor conditions still containing intentionally added PFAS under regulatory exemptions.
REGULATIONS ARE ACCELERATING – WE’RE ALREADY THERE
Helly Norway has led the way in PFAS restrictions, and the EU and U.S. are now implementing bans. California’s PFAS ban in textiles began in 2025. While EU regulations will take effect from October 2026, and broader U.S. bans are expected by 2028. Helly Hansen has largely eliminated the use of PFAS in its products, ensuring compliance while maintaining product performance.
LIMITED EXEMPTIONS FOR EXTREME-USE PRODUCTS
Some specialized offshore and workwear products still contain intentionally-added PFAS due to current performance and safety requirements. These include:
- Ægir Offshore Sailing Gear (global distribution)
- Buoyancy Aids in the U.S. (Helly Hansen only sells buoyancy aids in the EU)
- Workwear PPE (only sold in the EU)
- Select Professional Services products
Where required, these products will be labelled with "Made with PFAS chemicals" to meet regulatory transparency standards.
A PHASED TRANSITION TO PFAS-FREE ALTERNATIVES
Helly Hansen is actively working to eliminate PFAS in all remaining products. By Spring/Summer 2025, only a small number of offshore sailing and buoyancy aid products will contain intentionally added PFAS. These will be phased out as PFAS-free alternatives are developed and tested to meet performance standards.
COMMITTED TO A PFAS-FREE FUTURE
Helly Hansen is on a path to fully eliminate intentionally added PFAS from our products. While trace amounts of PFAS may exist due to their widespread presence in the environment, our goal is to ensure that no PFAS are intentionally used in any product once suitable alternatives are available. We continue to invest in innovation and work closely with partners to meet this goal.
AFTERCARE: MAINTAINING PERFORMANCE AND LONGEVITY
PFAS-free waterproof and breathable technologies require proper care to maintain performance over time. Regular washing and reproofing with PFAS-free aftercare products help restore water repellency, ensuring long-lasting protection and durability. We encourage consumers to follow recommended care instructions to extend the life of their gear while reducing waste and environmental impact. Discover the best way to care for your gear on our product care hub.
Make your gear perform longer
Read our guide on how to clean and waterproof a shell jacket >
LIFA INFINITY PRO™
The next level of waterproof/breathable technology. Learn about the innovative technology that provides water protection without the use of chemical treatments.
