Sportswear and Forever Chemicals: The Cost of Performance

I first heard about forever chemicals, or PFAS, in my environmental studies class in college. Even then, my biggest concern was PFAS in water or in everyday exposure through underwear, mascara, or nonstick pans. The concern of PFAS in my sportswear did not really cross my mind until a few years ago. I remember doing some research on it, but shrugged it off as I had more “important” things to worry about. Recently, another article about Lululemon caught my attention, as I own their leggings and workout gear. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into Lululemon, alleging that PFAS in its clothing pose a health risk to customers. Lululemon has responded to the allegation, saying it phased out the forever chemicals back in 2023. 

PFAS have historically been used in yoga pants, leggings, sports bras, raincoats, and other gear because they increase resistance to water, stains, and oil. However, studies indicate that absorption of forever chemicals through the skin, for instance, during an intense workout, could pose health risks. Recognizing this, governments have enacted stricter regulations to ban or limit the use of these forever chemicals in textiles and appliances. For instance, starting in January 2025, California bans intentionally added PFAS in textiles, and New York prohibits apparel with PFAS, except in outdoor gear for severe wet conditions, until 2028 (Bluesign). In other parts of the world, countries are taking even greater steps, as evidenced by Denmark, which has announced a national ban on the use of PFAS in clothing, footwear, and related products, set to take effect on July 1, 2026 (SGS). 

Despite these efforts, there are numerous challenges in phasing out PFAS globally due to the interconnected nature of the supply chain. For instance, a pair of leggings might be assembled in one country, the yarn spun in another, and the chemical finish applied in a third. In this process, many brands face the risk of cross-contamination, with PFAS found in a factory’s water system or on shared machinery, even if the brand has banned them from its specific formula. Moreover, since regulations vary widely by region, global brands find it extremely difficult to keep track and implement the evolving standards.  

There is a need for international standards that hold each other accountable, which have not been very successful in other environmental issues, such as pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, a more reliable and reasonable solution is to seek viable alternatives that could lead to the long-term phasing out of PFAS. While these options are being investigated, as consumers, it is important to stay updated on news and scientific research on forever chemicals and, to be responsible, to have a general understanding of what constitutes a safe product.