Garmin · Waterproof Sports Bags
SKI SERIES 35L DRY BAG
Dry bag with waterproof coating; PFAS risk present but unconfirmed.
Dry bags typically use water-repellent coating (water-repellent coating) coatings that often contain PFAS. Garmin provides no transparency on this product's coating chemistry, leaving PFAS exposure unclear.
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Material
nylon or TPE fabric with waterproof coating
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
Category baseline
clothing is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
The SKI Series 35L uses nylon fabric with a TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or PU (polyurethane) waterproof coating to repel water. These coatings are durable and non-flammable, making them safe for outdoor gear. However, waterproofing in this category often relies on fluorinated compounds (PFAS) to achieve water-shedding properties, though Garmin has not publicly disclosed their specific coating chemistry or PFAS content.
The brand's record and disclosure
Garmin is primarily a GPS and sports electronics manufacturer; they do not publish safety transparency reports or material safety certifications for textiles. No recalls or safety incidents are on record for this dry bag. The brand's silence on coating composition and PFAS use is typical for consumer outdoor gear but reflects limited third-party verification of chemical safety.
How it compares in its category
Most waterproof dry bags at this price point use similar TPE or PU coatings with unconfirmed PFAS content. Premium alternatives (e.g., Patagonia, Arc'teryx) often disclose PFC-free coatings or have stricter supply-chain standards, but cost significantly more. The Garmin SKI Series occupies a mid-market position typical of sports brands with minimal chemical transparency.
If you buy it
Avoid prolonged direct skin contact with the coating; wash hands after use if desired. Do not machine wash or expose to heat above 60 C (140 F), as heat may degrade the waterproof layer. Inspect seams and coating annually for wear; replacement is recommended after 5-7 years of regular use or visible damage. Store dry and away from direct sunlight to extend coating longevity.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
PFAS in waterproof coating
Waterproof TPE and PU coatings often contain fluorinated compounds for water repellency. Garmin has not disclosed coating type or PFAS content; risk is plausible but unconfirmed by independent testing or recall data.
Azo dyes in nylon fabric
No reports of restricted azo dyes (which can release carcinogenic amines) in this product or Garmin textiles. Nylon itself is not a common vector for azo dye hazards in outdoor gear.
Formaldehyde in fabric finishes
Formaldehyde is rare in nylon-based outdoor gear; TPE and PU coatings do not typically use formaldehyde resins. No documented cases for this product category.
Heavy metal dyes or pigments
Dry bags are typically neutral or dark colored; no reports of heavy-metal pigment contamination in Garmin or comparable TPE-coated bags.
Coating degradation releasing particles
As waterproof coatings age, flaking or shedding can occur with wear or improper care. Risk is low for typical use but increases with heat exposure, abrasion, or extended UV exposure over several years.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 42% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
Safer alternatives in Waterproof Sports Bags
Garmin
Carrying Case
Neoprene or polyester case, material unspecified
Unknown material raises concern; no PFAS disclosure from Garmin.
⚠Risky category by default
Patagonia
Guidewater Sling
recycled polyester with water-repellent coating finish
Lower concern; brand committed to PFAS-free water-repellent coating, but verify current batch
⚠Waterproof or stain-proof treatment
More waterproof sports bags grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.