C0 DWR for the 5-Pocket Series

Beginning in Spring/Summer 2025, we will transition the water-repellent treatment for our 5-Pocket series from C6 DWR to C0 DWR.

Let’s take a closer look at C6 DWR and C0 DWR—what they are, how they work, and why this transition matters. Understanding the differences between these treatments will help explain the impact of this shift and what it means for the future of our products.

C6 DWR has been widely used in Yamatomichi products, including rainwear, backpacks, pants, and shorts. Developed as a lower-impact alternative to C8 DWR, it is designed to break down more quickly in nature. In addition to its excellent water repellency, C6 DWR also offers oil repellency, helping to prevent stains and minimize performance degradation caused by body oils.

However, recent studies indicate that C6 DWR contains trace amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are highly persistent in the environment. Once released, these substances do not readily degrade and can accumulate in the air, waterways, and soil for extended periods, raising significant environmental concerns.

C0 DWR is a water-repellent treatment made without PFAS that provides water resistance on par with C6 DWR. While its initial performance is comparable, the absence of oil repellency makes it more vulnerable to degradation over time, as accumulated body oils and dirt can diminish its effectiveness with repeated use. Although C0 DWR has a lower environmental impact than PFAS-based treatments, a key challenge remains—particularly for technical products—as it may accelerate fabric wear and functional decline, ultimately reducing the product’s lifespan.

C6 DWR and C0 DWR each have their own advantages and disadvantages, and at this point, neither can be considered superior for all applications. Moving forward, we will assess water repellents based on quality, functionality, and durability, prioritizing environmentally friendly options whenever they meet our performance standards.

For the 5-Pocket series, we have opted to transition to C0 DWR, as the lack of oil repellency does not affect its intended performance.