Eco-responsible water-repellent treatments

3rd layer technical clothing today often has water-repellent treatments.

For many years, these water-repellent finishes have been made from fluorocarbons, specifically perfluorocarbons (PFCs). These PFCs are hydrophobic to repel water, and lipophobic to repel grease.

These chemicals have been denounced by the scientific community and some NGOs because PFCs are highly toxic, even in small doses. They are considered carcinogenic, endocrine disruptors, and extremely polluting for the environment because they do not degrade.

AYAQ chooses its fabrics without applying finishes for some (1st or 2nd layer ), to reduce the substances applied when this is not necessary and justified.

For the 3rd layers that require water protection qualities, AYAQ selects fabrics with a PFC-free water-repellent treatment.

Since the alarms raised by some whistleblowers in 2015, PFC-free finishing alternatives have been developed and improved, offering remarkable water-repellent performance and largely meeting the requirements of intense mountain practices.

A limitation remains for the moment with a performance a little less effective than treatments with PFC in resistance to washing and anti-grease stain property.

Considering the urgent protection of our planet a priority, AYAQ prioritizes the environment over "anti-stain" performance.