PFAS in Firefighter Uniforms: What Firefighters Need to Know

Firefighters are exposed to more carcinogens than almost any other profession. What's increasingly alarming is that some of that exposure doesn't come from the fire — it comes from the gear itself.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been widely used in firefighter uniforms, turnout gear, and station wear for decades. These synthetic chemicals were added to improve moisture resistance, stain resistance, and durability. But the health consequences are becoming impossible to ignore.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are a class of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in manufacturing since the 1940s. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down — in the environment, in water, or in the human body.

They've been linked to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disruption, and reproductive harm. Firefighters, who already face elevated cancer risk, are among the most exposed populations.

How PFAS Get Into Firefighter Uniforms

PFAS are used in the manufacturing of many synthetic fabrics to create water-repellent and stain-resistant finishes. In station wear and base layers, this means firefighters are wearing PFAS-treated clothing directly against their skin — for 24 hours at a time, shift after shift.

Heat and physical activity increase skin absorption. That means the firehouse environment — exactly where firefighters spend most of their time — is also where PFAS exposure from clothing is highest.

The Case for PFAS-Free Station Wear

The solution isn't complicated: use materials that don't require PFAS to perform.

Merino wool is naturally moisture-resistant, odor-resistant, and flame-resistant — without any synthetic chemical treatments. That's why Armadillo Woolery station wear is built entirely from PFAS-free Merino wool. No coatings. No forever chemicals. Just the natural performance of the fiber itself.

What Firefighters Can Do Now

Reducing PFAS exposure starts with what you wear closest to your skin. Replacing synthetic base layers and station wear with PFAS-free Merino wool alternatives is one of the most direct steps a firefighter can take to reduce daily chemical exposure.

It won't eliminate all occupational risk. But it removes one significant, controllable source of it.

Shop PFAS-Free Station Wear

Armadillo Woolery builds firefighter-founded, PFAS-free Merino wool station wear and base layers for those who refuse to add unnecessary chemical exposure to an already demanding job.

• Saber Station Wear Shirt — PFAS-free Merino wool built for the firehouse.
• Saber Station Wear Pants — Merino wool pants with no synthetic chemical treatments.
• Johnnies Men's Base Layer — PFAS-free next-to-skin protection, shift after shift.
• The Crews — Merino Wool Crew Socks — PFAS-free socks for 24-hour shifts.

Built for battle. Designed for extreme duty.