PFAS Free Equestrian Gear: Safe Riding Accessories

PFAS, the synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment, show up in more products than most people realize. Equestrian riding gear is one of those categories. Waterproof jackets, stain-treated saddle pads, coated helmet liners - if it repels water or resists stains, there is a good chance a fluorinated coating is involved.

Our guides to PFAS free silicone cookware and PFAS free air fryer cover related topics if you are working through your kitchen at the same time.

Why PFAS in equestrian riding gear is a health concern

PFAS exposure has been linked to hormone disruption, elevated cholesterol, weakened immune response, and increased cancer risk at certain levels. Environmental health researchers have found detectable PFAS in blood samples of people with ordinary household exposures. The chemicals do not break down on their own, so each source of contact adds to the total your body carries. Children and pregnant women are more vulnerable.

How to identify PFAS-free equestrian riding gear

Manufacturers are not required to disclose PFAS on labels in most U.S. states, so reading the package only gets you so far. A few things that actually help:

Third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100, bluesign, and GOTS all restrict PFAS. If a product carries one of those, you can trust it. Watch out for terms like “water-resistant,” “stain-resistant,” and “wrinkle-free” on gear that does not specify its treatment type, because those usually mean a fluorinated coating. When in doubt, ask the brand directly whether they use fluorinated treatments. Companies that have moved away from PFAS are usually happy to say so. The PFAS Free Life Database is another good starting point for verified products.

PFAS-free equestrian riding gear worth trying

Natural and untreated materials are the simplest swap: leather without waterproof coatings, wool saddle pads, cotton girths. For gear that needs water resistance, look for brands that specify fluorine-free DWR treatments. OEKO-TEX certified textiles have been tested for PFAS. Some outdoor brands like Patagonia and Cotopaxi publish their chemical policies openly, which makes it easier to verify.

One option worth looking at: the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boot (Men’s), a PFAS-free boot that works for barn and trail use.

Reducing PFAS exposure from your equestrian gear

A few practical steps beyond swapping products:

• Wash new riding gear before wearing it for the first time to reduce surface chemical residue
• Open windows or run fans in your tack room; PFAS can settle into dust, and young children pick up more of it
• Use glass or stainless steel for anything that touches food or skin
• Filter your drinking water with a reverse osmosis system, which removes PFAS more effectively than carbon filters alone

Our guide to top PFAS free water filters covers the options, and the PFAS Free Life Database lets you search by product category.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my equestrian gear has PFAS?

There is no easy way to tell just by looking. Terms like “water-repellent,” “stain-guard,” and “wrinkle-free” on the label usually point to a fluorinated treatment. Certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or bluesign are more reliable indicators because they prohibit PFAS. You can also look up specific products in the PFAS Free Life Database at database.pfasfreelife.com.

What health risks are linked to PFAS in equestrian gear?

PFAS from consumer products has been tied to elevated cholesterol, immune disruption, hormone interference, and in some cases increased cancer risk. Children and pregnant women tend to be more affected. The body does clear PFAS over time once exposure stops, so swapping products out gradually still helps.

Can I test my home for PFAS contamination?

Water testing is the easiest place to start. Certified labs and at-home kits from companies like SimpleLab can measure PFAS levels in your drinking water. Testing products and household dust is more involved and more expensive. Some state health departments run low-cost testing programs that can help.