embedding sustainability
into everything organizations
do, redefining their purpose,
culture and business models."
Companies have made
strides in sustainable solutions
in footwear for years, however,
the race to mitigate PFAS
in shoes (and sogoods) is
one challenge that is heating
up significantly as more
laws regarding PFAS have
gone into effect across the
nation. California and New
York passed legislation,
effective January 1, 2025,
restricting the use of PFAS in
athletic footwear and other
textiles. According to Safer
States, a national alliance
of environmental health
organizations, at least 36 states
are considering more than
450 bills on toxic chemical-
related policies. Approximately
a dozen states have already
outlawed products with PFAS.
PFAS are a group of
synthetic chemicals used in
many consumer products.
Toxicity and longevity go
hand in hand with PFAS,
commonly referred to as
"forever chemicals" because
they are difficult to break down
in the environment. PFAS has
long been key to waterproof
performance in footwear, as
well as fabric treatments and
finishes for several decades.
"People have known
for years that 'forever
chemicals' are harmful for the
environment and need to be
addressed, and now legislation
is pushing the timeline for
that agenda," states Mark
Mathews, VP of sales at Scarpa.
He explains that Scarpa, a
long-time brand partner with
W.L. Gore, has been actively
Arcus 2 GTX waterproof running
shoe with 24 percent recycled material.
Rapid XT GTX women's approach shoe,
made with non-PFAS ePE membrane.
ICEBUG
SCARPA
16 • January/February 2025 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com
FOOTWEAR DESIGN
