Press release -
Rab complete move to PFAS-free shell technologies with new AW25 GORE-TEX® Pro Shell collection
British outdoor brand Rab (owned by Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd.) have introduced their new GORE-TEX® Pro Shell collection featuring ePE membrane technology, completing their transition to PFAS-free shell technologies for Autumn/Winter 2025.
The new collection delivers reliable weather protection in extreme environments whilst reducing environmental impact. It has a reduced carbon impact compared to the previous generation of GORE-TEX® Pro, driven by the innovative PFAS-free GORE-TEX® Membrane made from ePE and carefully selected recycled and solution dyed textiles. All laminates are bluesign approved as well as certified according to OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100.
The move to PFAS-free gear is part of Rab’s commitment to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining the high performance standards that climbers and mountaineers depend on. Rab started developing PFAS-free alternatives back in 2013 and have consistently swapped their fabrics to lower impact solutions ever since. The products' Material Facts provide transparent information about the PFAS status of a product as well as other sustainability credentials.
The PFAS-free* ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane was first introduced to Rab’s GORE-TEX® Shell collection in selected styles in AW23. Besides being PFAS-free, it achieves a lower carbon footprint than previous technologies**. Constructed with recycled nylon face fabrics, the membrane now launches in the GORE-TEX® Brands’ most technical GORE-TEX® Pro Product Technology, specifically engineered for alpinists and mountain guides operating in the most demanding conditions.
Rab’s new GORE-TEX® Pro range encompasses:
Recognising that PFAS-free gear requires regular maintenance for optimal performance, Rab are introducing an extensive aftercare education programme through their Rab Laband Rab Lab Academy. This initiative, targeting consumers and retailers, will offer comprehensive training to empower consumers to maintain their gear at home.
With over 8,400 washes processed through the Rab Service Centres in 2024/25, the brand is responding to growing consumer demand for professional aftercare services that extend product lifespan, reduce waste, and ensure gear remains adventure-ready any time.
* Made without intentionally added per- and polyfluorinated substances; may contain trace amounts.
** Through the laminate’s innovative membrane and select textiles (per Higg MSI).
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Equip Outdoor Technologies UK Ltd is an international business with the head office based in Derbyshire, UK. We are proud to own both the Rab and Lowe Alpine brands. We design exceptional product to meet the needs of our active customers. We encourage our teams to thrive and be part of our success. Our passion for the outdoors and adventurous spirit sets the foundation for what we do. We have approved near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets with the SBTi and are proud to be a Fair Wear Leader Brand. We run Service Centres in the UK, The Netherlands, US and Canada.www.equipuk.com.
