Altra Men's Olympus 6 Hike Mid GTX
GTX waterproofing likely contains PFAS; no brand disclosure or testing available.
Altra does not disclose PFAS use or absence for this hiking boot. Gore-Tex GTX membranes typically rely on Teflon-family coating chemistry with potential PFAS content, though Gore claims water-based approaches in some products.
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Material
Textile upper with Gore-Tex GTX waterproof membrane
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Altra Men's Olympus 6 Hike Mid GTX is made of, ingredients and materials
The Olympus 6 features a textile upper (likely synthetic fiber blend) bonded to a Gore-Tex GTX waterproof membrane. Gore-Tex membranes are engineered Teflon-family coating films; the manufacturing and final product composition of GTX historically involves PFAS chemistry, though Gore-Tex does not publicly disclose specific PFAS content or test results. The textile base may be treated with finishes to improve water resistance, durability, or aesthetics, which commonly include formaldehyde-releasing resins and synthetic dyes.
What’s concerning
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
Water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Formaldehyde / VOCs
Textile uppers are often finished with formaldehyde-based resins for water repellency, durability, and wrinkle resistance. Altra does not disclose finish chemistry; residual formaldehyde may off-gas, especially when new or after washing, and can irritate skin or respiratory membranes in sensitive individuals.
Source, ATSDR ↗Azo dyes and synthetic colorants
The upper is dyed synthetic textile; azo dyes can degrade under sweat, UV, and heat, releasing aromatic amines. No brand testing or restricted-substance declaration is available for this product. Risk is low during dry wear but increases with perspiration or prolonged moisture contact.
Adhesive and glue volatile off-gassing
The textile upper is bonded to the Gore-Tex membrane and sole using industrial adhesives; these can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other odorants, especially during the first weeks of ownership. Adequate ventilation and airing out before first use can reduce exposure.
Microplastic shedding from synthetic textile upper
Synthetic fiber uppers shed microfibers during wear and washing. The extent depends on fiber type (polyester, nylon, polyamide) and finish durability. No data on microplastic load for this specific model; shedding is inherent to synthetic footwear.
Membrane degradation and leachate exposure over time
Gore-Tex membranes can delaminate or tear with repeated flex, heat, or abrasion; once compromised, the waterproofing is lost and the user may be exposed to moisture and any residual PFAS or finish chemicals in the interior layers. Replacement is the only remedy.
The full breakdown
The brand's record and disclosure
Altra has not published materials transparency data, PFAS testing, or third-party certifications (e.g., Bluesign, GOTS, OEKO-TEX) for this model or line. The brand does not disclose waterproofing chemistry or membrane supplier details. No major product recalls or documented contamination incidents are on record for Altra footwear, but the absence of disclosure is itself a data gap.
How it compares in its category
Most hiking boots in this price range use Gore-Tex or equivalent (Membrane material containing PFAS) for waterproofing; few brands disclose or test for PFAS in finished footwear. Some competitors (e.g., certain Salomon and La Sportiva models) offer PFOA-free or PFAS-free alternatives, though availability is limited and cost typically higher. Altra's lack of transparency is standard industry practice, not unique to the brand.
If you buy it
Wash the upper with mild soap and cool water; avoid hot water, direct heat, or machine washing, which can degrade the membrane and increase leaching risk. Do not dry-clean or expose to temperatures above 65°C. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Inspect seams and the membrane annually for wear or separation; once compromised, waterproofing cannot be reliably restored and the boot should be replaced. PFAS exposure from GTX is considered low via skin contact during typical use, but cumulative and environmental exposure (including from washing and disposal) is a known concern.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Altra has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
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