Hiking Packing List 2026: Why PFAS-Free Materials Are Changing How We Choose Equipment

The outdoors is facing its biggest technological transformation in decades. If you’ve been looking at new gear for the 2026 season, you’ve probably noticed acronyms like ePE and terms like “PFAS-free.” It’s not just about environmental awareness—it’s about legislation that is fundamentally changing how our clothing and tents are made, perform, and maintained.

Starting in 2025 and into 2026, new regulations in both the EU (led by France and Denmark) and the US (California and New York) have put an end to the so-called “forever chemicals.” For you as a hiker, this means that your trusty shell jacket or lightweight tent will look different under the hood.

In this guide, we go over what the new technological shift means for your packing list, why you need to wash your clothes more often than before, and how we at HikingStore see the future of sustainable adventures.

The new legislation: The end for PFAS

In 2025, several countries introduced strict bans on intentionally added PFAS substances in textiles. France was the first to go ahead with a total ban on clothing in January 2026, and Denmark followed suit in July 2026.

Why is this important? PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) have long been the gold standard for making materials water and dirt repellent. But they don’t break down in nature and have been linked to health risks. The bans have forced manufacturers like Gore-Tex and other material pioneers to invent completely new ways to keep you dry.

The technology shift: ePE and the new generation of membranes

The big news for 2026 is the widespread adoption of ePE (expanded Polyethylene) membranes . Traditional waterproof membranes have often consisted of PTFE (Teflon), which requires PFAS in its manufacturing. ePE is completely PFAS-free, has a lower carbon footprint, and is also thinner and lighter.

What does that mean for performance?
An ePE membrane is just as waterproof as the old membranes. You can still rely on it to keep out the mountain rain. The big difference, however, is the outer treatment – what we call DWR (Durable Water Repellent) .

The new, PFAS-free DWR treatments are great for the environment, but they aren’t as resistant to oils, grease, and dirt as the old chemicals were. Which brings us to the most important change for your hiking hobby: maintenance.

Practical consequence: Why you need to wash your clothes more often

It used to be said that you should avoid washing your shell jacket too often to avoid "wearing it out." In 2026, that advice is officially dead.

Because PFAS-free DWR is more sensitive to dirt, your jacket will start to "wick" water (wet through the outer fabric) much faster if it's dirty. When the outer fabric gets wet, the garment loses its breathability. You'll then be soaked from the inside by your own sweat – a dangerous situation in cold weather.

Care instructions for 2026 equipment:

1. Wash regularly: Don't wait until your jacket looks dirty. If the water stops beading on the shoulders, it's time.
2. Use the right detergent: Never use regular detergent with fabric softener. Use special detergents for technical materials that do not leave residues that clog the pores.
3. Activate with heat: Most new PFAS-free treatments require heat to “wake up.” A low-heat tumble dryer cycle (about 20–40 minutes) after washing is essential to restore water repellency.
4. Re-impregnate often: You will need to spray on new PFAS-free impregnation much more often than you are used to. Expect to do so after every second or third wash.

Why we at HikingStore are committed to PFAS-free

At HikingStore we have a simple motto: we only sell equipment we trust ourselves in a pinch. We have followed the development of ePE and the new PFAS-free materials closely. We see that even though they require a little more love in the form of maintenance, they are a superior choice for those who want to hike with a clear conscience.

Hiking packing list 2026: Sustainability and performance in focus

When packing for your next trip, think "layers upon layers" and focus on materials that perform without chemical shortcuts.

1. Shell garments (PFAS-free)

Choose a jacket with an ePE membrane. It's lighter to pack and provides just as good protection against wind and water, provided you take care of it. Make sure to bring a small bottle of wash-in waterproofing if you're going to be out for a long time.
See our waterproof options for extra protection.

2. Sleeping system: Sleeping bag or Quilt?

To reduce weight without sacrificing safety, more and more people have turned to quilts. Our Semi Quilt NXT is a great example of modern design that saves weight by removing unnecessary material on the underside, while the sleeping pad still provides insulation.
Check out our selection of sleeping bags and quilts .

3. Tent: PFAS-free fabrics

Tent fabrics have also been redesigned. Modern lightweight tents now often use siliconized nylon (Silnylon) or new PFAS-free laminates. Keep in mind that a tent that does not have a PFAS treatment may need to be dried more thoroughly before packing up to avoid mold.
Explore our tents , including the popular Lanshan series .

4. Feet: PFAS-free boots and gaiters

Leather is naturally durable, but many synthetic boots have now replaced their membranes. To protect your boots and keep out moisture at the ankles or in tall grass, a good pair of gaiters is essential.
We recommend durable gaiters as a complement to your pack.

5. Energy and cooking

Don't forget the kitchen. An efficient kitchen reduces the need for fuel and thus your overall weight.
Find the right cooking equipment for your trip.

Summary: The balance between function and environment

The biggest lesson for 2026 is that equipment is no longer “buy and forget.” The new generation of PFAS-free materials requires you as the user to be more active. But the rewards are great: lighter packing, a cleaner environment, and equipment that actually lasts longer if you take care of it.

Before you head out on your next adventure, ask yourself: Is my gear ready for the weather, and am I ready to take care of it? The mountain rarely punishes those who are well prepared, but it almost always punishes those who take shortcuts with their sleeping system or shell clothing.

See you on the trail!

/Anders, HikingStore