Women’s Merrell Moab Waterproof Cancer?

Discussion
1

So I wanted to get my stepdaughter a nice pair of hiking boots to do some hiking in Arizona this December. I found these online and was in awe since I love my Moab 2’s.

I went to have have her try them on at REI and the footwear associate told me that the reason those specific ones are on sale is because they found out the Gore-Tex technology used in them causes cancer.

We at least got a size for them but I wanted to do more research on that in case the guy was just trying to upsell in case he made commission. I couldn’t find anything cancer/recall related to the shoes. Does anyone know of this? I feel like they would have to disclose to a certain extent if that was actually the case. Any guidance appreciated.

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2

It’s possible he was just making a generalized statement about Gore-Tex. Here is a relevant link discussing Gore lawsuit over PFAS contamination in water: Gore has known of the dangers of PFAS since the 1990s, lawsuit says - WHYY

3

The salesperson was on the right track but was being a bit hyperbolic and also not explaining the actual situation.

There is a group of chemicals called PFAS that used to be used in most waterproof-breathable membranes - in rain jackets, waders, footwear, you name it - from almost every brand. It’s not just those boots and it’s not just Moabs and it’s not just Merrells. PFAS aren’t great for us or for the environment. They are being phased out.

A new generation of waterproof-breathable membranes is being used in products made recently. Many manufacturers are clearing out their old stock with the older membrane material.

4

@Zane
That’s kind of what I figured. How everything causes cancer nowadays. I read about PFAs and the general consensus seems to be that they’re got great, but as long as it’s not in direct contact with your skin, it isn’t the end of the world. Thanks for the insight.

5

This is a somewhat informative video that covers the issue being talked about. It’s up to you to decide how much it’s worth worrying about. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ht7nOaIkpI

6

I have a pair. They’re not too bad. Bit tight if you have wide feet.
I work in a cancer research lab. I do not give one iota of credit to that sales person. Anything plastic or waterproofing probably has some kind of cancer associated with it. Water bottle - cancer. City air - cancer…

7

Those boots really hurt my feet and I had to return them. They have a super high arch and are definitely not a fit for everyone

8

Wade said:
Those boots really hurt my feet and I had to return them. They have a super high arch and are definitely not a fit for everyone

Whereas I love MOABS and they are comfy right out of the box.

9

It’s nothing really concerning when not in prolonged, direct contact with skin. Even then, it’s a minor concern. The main problem comes from it getting into the water table. That’s where the real problem lies.

10

The guy was definitely talking about PFAS and most companies are discounting its use and putting the products it was used in on sale to purge their inventory

11

Merrells went down hill.

I avoid waterproof shoes unless I’m hiking in snow.

12

Goretex does leech into the water table, it is a concern and I won’t be buying any goretex from here on out. I’m going back to older tech. Like wool and leather.

13

Eli said:
Goretex does leech into the water table, it is a concern and I won’t be buying any goretex from here on out. I’m going back to older tech. Like wool and leather.

Most popular brands, especially outdoor brands, are using less harmful materials like PFAs now. But im on the same page as you