The Best PFAS-Free Winter Boots

Image by Lundhags. This post contains some affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, EcoCult receives a small percentage of the sale price. We only recommend brands that we truly believe in. Support our editorial work by supporting them!

When you go outside in the winter snow and slush, you need to know that the boots on your feet are built to keep both you and the environment safe. Truly sustainable winter boots must be weather-resistant, built to last for years, and free of toxic waterproof finishes.

If you’ve been following environmental and health-conscious fashion, you’ve likely come across mentions of per-and poly-fluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS.) These substances are used across industries, from fashion to household products to protect surfaces from water and stains without impeding breathability. Known also as “forever chemicals” by scientists and Durable Water Repellent (DWR) by the industry, these waterproofing substances are especially prevalent in outdoor and ski gear — and especially snow-proof winter boots.

The problem with PFAS is that when it flakes off of your boots and enters the environment, it doesn’t go away. Because of its strong chemical bonds, it takes a very long time to break down, and will stay in the water, snow, and the surrounding environment, eventually contaminating the soil and drinking water. And it’s not just an environmental issue — PFAS can also come off your boots into your home. Exposure has been linked with health issues ranging from some cancers to fertility and immune system complications.

Unless a brand specifically says its waterproofing finish is PFAS-free, PFC-free, or free of fluorinated chemicals, it’s safe to assume it was made with forever chemicals.

All the boots on this list are graded for snow and slush without the use of perfluorinated chemicals–and they’re cute, too.

Before you go looking for the perfect pair, check out our criteria for sustainable PFAS-free winter boots. And if you’re looking for PFAS-free ski and hiking gear to go with it, we’ve got you covered there, too.

Safe & Sustainable Materials: You already know how to check if a brand is PFAS-free, but there are a few other steps you can take to keep yourself safe. If you’re looking for naturally water-resistant boots, try leather. Make sure to look for certifications from the Leather Working Group (LWG), as this ensures the materials were sustainably processed.  For brands that use recycled materials in their boots, look for certifications from GRS, which verifies that it was truly recycled. You can also check for labels from bluesign or a restricted substances list to be sure a brand takes its chemical management seriously.

Transparent Supply Chain: Keeping your feet safe shouldn’t come at the cost of someone else’s wellbeing. Look for brands that are aware of where and how their products were made, down to the raw material sourcing. Brands that partner with the Fair Wear Foundation, share their factory locations, or uphold a code of conduct are typically more conscious of their supply chain practices.

After-Market Repair: A sustainable pair of winter boots should be built to last for years. Look for brands that thoughtfully design their products with longevity in mind, and that are dedicated to extending their lifespans. Some brands offer replacement parts and tips on repairing your gear, while some others offer full-service repair.

What we love: Keen was the first outdoor brand to go PFAS-free and shared its process with the industry to help others do it too. It makes safe and comfortable shoes that are built to last. Its range of stylish to heavy-duty winter boots are waterproofed with a PFAS-free Durable Water Repellant. It only works with LWG-certified tanneries for its leather and maintains a restricted substances list. The brand ensures at least one in three pairs are made in its own factories, and audits its Tier 1 and 2 suppliers to ensure they uphold its code of conduct.

Price Range: $115-$250

Available In: The U.S. Some products may be available to ship to China, Australia, and most European and Asian countries through its partner dealers.

What we love: This PFAS-free outdoor brand creates innovative and earth-conscious gear that stands the test of time. Most of its winter boots are made with custom water and wind-proof Texapore technology. It lists all of its supply chain partners, all of which are bluesign-approved (or don’t use hazardous substances) and regularly sends independent inspectors to ensure they uphold safe and fair working conditions.

Price Range: $120-$230

Available In: Most European Countries.

What we love: Lundhags is a Swedish outdoor brand that has been around since 1932. Its makes its leather boots in Europe with materials from a German tannery for a short supply chain. Its selection includes shell, one-layer, and three-layer boots. It offers an after-market repair shop to extend the lifespan of your gear, and regulates its factory working conditions under the Brav code of conduct.