There are some interesting things happening with PFAS* being banned in the EU. GoreTex has begun releasing PFAS-free fabrics but apparently continues to use them in their DWR coatings.
*aka “forever chemicals”
As a result of the EU ban, I was told that Neoshell - Polartec’s answer to GoreTex - is being discontinued. As Apple found out with their lightning cables, the EU carries a big stick.
[This article about what’s happening with GoreTex and PFAS](https://toxicfreefuture.org/press-room/gore-tex-manufacturer-announces-availability-of-new-pfas-free-membrane-but-still-uses-forever-chemicals-to-make-its-outdoor-apparel-and-gear/) sheds some light on this stuff but there is obviously a lot more to learn.
Re. a 100% waterproof ass, these were great for a very long, very wet Shore ride. As mentioned earlier, the only stuff that approaches true waterproofing is like the stuff you see on outdoor job sites - which seems to be made of rubber. I used to wear something similar when I fought forest fires and I don’t see how it would be compatible with being between your saddle and your ass. It would suck against your under layer and would be even worse against your saddle unless it could be coated in some way to allow it to move smoothly in contact with other surfaces and materials. It also cracks over time in high wear areas. I love it in theory but I don’t think it’s necessary for me based on my recent experiences with these pants and others.
Jan. 9, 2024, 10:34 a.m. - Cam McRae
There are some interesting things happening with PFAS* being banned in the EU. GoreTex has begun releasing PFAS-free fabrics but apparently continues to use them in their DWR coatings. *aka “forever chemicals” As a result of the EU ban, I was told that Neoshell - Polartec’s answer to GoreTex - is being discontinued. As Apple found out with their lightning cables, the EU carries a big stick. [This article about what’s happening with GoreTex and PFAS](https://toxicfreefuture.org/press-room/gore-tex-manufacturer-announces-availability-of-new-pfas-free-membrane-but-still-uses-forever-chemicals-to-make-its-outdoor-apparel-and-gear/) sheds some light on this stuff but there is obviously a lot more to learn. Re. a 100% waterproof ass, these were great for a very long, very wet Shore ride. As mentioned earlier, the only stuff that approaches true waterproofing is like the stuff you see on outdoor job sites - which seems to be made of rubber. I used to wear something similar when I fought forest fires and I don’t see how it would be compatible with being between your saddle and your ass. It would suck against your under layer and would be even worse against your saddle unless it could be coated in some way to allow it to move smoothly in contact with other surfaces and materials. It also cracks over time in high wear areas. I love it in theory but I don’t think it’s necessary for me based on my recent experiences with these pants and others.