Susilo Edi Turonggo
The arrival of winter snow and slush necessitates reliable footwear, yet consumers are increasingly demanding that their protection against the elements does not come at the expense of environmental integrity or personal health. The call for truly sustainable winter boots, characterized by weather resistance, durability, and freedom from toxic waterproof finishes, has reached a critical juncture. At the heart of this movement is the urgent need to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS) from outdoor gear, substances widely recognized for their pervasive and harmful nature.
The Pervasive Threat of "Forever Chemicals": Understanding PFAS
For those attuned to environmental and health-conscious trends in fashion and consumer goods, the term "PFAS" has become ubiquitous. These synthetic compounds, numbering in the thousands, have been utilized across an extensive range of industries since the 1940s, primarily for their unique properties of repelling water, oil, and stains while maintaining breathability. From non-stick cookware and food packaging to fire-fighting foams and, crucially, a vast array of textile products, PFAS have been engineered to create a durable, protective barrier. Within the outdoor and apparel sector, they are often referred to as Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coatings, integral to products like hiking gear, ski equipment, and, most pertinently, snow-proof winter boots.
The insidious nature of PFAS stems from their extraordinary chemical stability. Comprising chains of carbon and fluorine atoms, these bonds are among the strongest in organic chemistry, rendering the compounds
Anjar Salim
Chandra Hamzah
Walid Sujud Trenggono
Cholid Fahmi Thalib
Budi Mulyono